Okanagan Woman Spring 2016 by Okanagan Woman Magazine

SPRING 2016

C L E V E R | C L A S S Y | C O N F I D E N T

BIG REVEAL! Make-over contest

THE

CONVERSATION WITH

Premier Christy Clark

Ways to get

HAPPY in the Okanagan!

HOME DECOR F E A T U R E Refresh Restore Renew

SPRING FASHION

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PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NUMBER: 41188516 PRINT ISSN: 2291-8353 ONLINE ISSN: 2291-8361

photos

are you ready? Summer is on its way... let us help you prepare! Dr. Craig Crippen, MD CCFP

K e l o w n a Ve i n & S k i n S o l u t i o n s

Medical Director

dermmedica.ca

are you ready? Summer is on its way... let us help you prepare! Dr. Craig Crippen, MD CCFP

K e l o w n a Ve i n & S k i n S o l u t i o n s

Medical Director

dermmedica.ca

EDITOR’S MESSAGE | TJ WALLIS SPRING | 2016 VOLUME 5 ISSUE 2

PUBLISHER

CONTENTS 06WHEN & WHERE WITH CHRISTY: AN INTERVIEW WITH 08COFFEE THE PREMIER

SUZY VAN BAKEL PUBLISHER@OKANAGANWOMAN.COM

EDITOR

TJ WALLIS EDITOR@OKANAGANWOMAN.COM

CREATIVE

WAYS TO GET HAPPY IN THE OKANAGAN 10FIVE MAKEOVER – THE BIG REVEAL 12SPRING

SUZY VAN BAKEL DESIGN@OKANAGANWOMAN.COM

GRAPHIC

LINDA HACKING

COVER PHOTO

PHOTOGRAPHER - JUSTIN BONGERS WWW.JUSTINBONGERSPHOTOGRAPHY.CA MODEL - MADDY LASLETT INSTAGRAM - @MLASLETT HAIR - EMILY JACOB INSTAGRAM - @EMILY_SNIPS MAKE UP - JORDI DREHR INSTAGRAM - @ITSLIKELYMAKEUP CLOTHING BY - THE GUY NEXT DOOR LOCATION - ARMSTRONG FLOWER SHOP

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS THIS ISSUE DONA STURMANIS LAURA GOSSET PATTI SHALES LEFKOS SHANNON LINDEN

OKANAGAN WOMAN IS AN INDEPENDENT QUARTERLY PUBLICATION, LOCALLY OWNED, PRODUCED AND DISTRIBUTED BY SIDE SADDLE MEDIA LTD.

DISCLAIMER

THE OPINIONS AND VIEWS CONTAINED IN SUBMITTED ARTICLES TO OKANAGAN WOMAN MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE PUBLISHER. THE PUBLISHER RETAINS THE RIGHT TO EDIT ALL SUBMISSIONS, INCLUDING ARTICLES FOR BREVITY AND CLARITY. COPYRIGHT IS RETAINED ON ALL MATERIAL, TEXT AND GRAPHICS IN THIS PUBLICATION. NO REPRODUCTION IS ALLOWED OF ANY MATERIAL IN ANY FORM, PRINT OR ELECTRONIC, FOR ANY PURPOSE, EXCEPT WITH THE EXPRESSED PERMISSION OF OKANAGAN WOMAN MAGAZINE

4 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

18SPRING FASHION PICKS OF THE PURSE FUNDRAISING EVENT 22POWER 25SPRING FASHION PHOTOS ON LITERATURE BOOK CLUB 32LADIES & DADS SUMMER CONTEST 34DAUGHTERS

PHONE: 1.877.667.8450 EMAIL: INFO@OKANAGANWOMAN.COM ONLINE: OKANAGANWOMAN.COM SOCIALMEDIA@OKANAGANWOMAN.COM

ABOUT US

GRAINS FOR YOUR HEALTH 16ANCIENT

POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION 36RECOGNIZING AND REMODEL AT THE RESTORE 40RECREATE 42HOROSCOPE HOME DÉCOR SPECIAL FEATURE 43SPRING

Refresh Restore Renew

ne of the many benefits of working for a quarterly magazine is that Spring comes early. No sooner has the Winter issue been put to bed than our creative team is in full swing for spring – and with spring comes optimism. As soon as the snow melts, Okanaganites are in the mood for planning new projects, changing up the décor and freshening up their wardrobes. It’s true, we don’t NEED new things; life as we know it won’t fall apart if we don’t change up our paint colours. Yet it’s also true we do NEED these things. In spring, an inherent human desires pushes us to Refresh, Restore, and Renew. And that’s exactly the theme of this issue. It’s been 100 years since women won the right to vote in Canada and the new federal government has promised the inclusion of more women in politics. So, writer Shannon Linden welcomed the opportunity to speak with BC’s top politician over coffee, where Premier Christy Clark spilled the beans (pun intended) about life in politics (page 8). Okanagan Woman recently invited readers to enter our Spring Makeover Contest and in January our winner was treated to a whole new look and a little bit of spoiling. Accompanied by the Okanagan Woman team, it was a day of fun, joy, tears and sharing for everyone. Read this feel good story of new beginnings starting on page 12. And, don’t miss our brand new contest details on page 34! Every issue of Okanagan Woman has a fashion photo contest. This time around, we asked our photographers to conceptualize images in keeping with our theme of Refresh, Restore and Renew. And, wow, did they deliver! While we knew that moving into the Spring season, fashion turns towards softer, more feminine silhouettes, English garden prints and vintage lace, we had no idea that your photo submissions would be so right on. The cover image, shot by Armstrong’s Justin Bongers and modelled by Maddy Laslett captures the essence of spring, with new growth, budding flowers and outward expression. See all the winning selections from our photo contest beginning on page 23. You’ll notice we added a few pages and that means even more outstanding original stories to inspire and inform. While we put the spring issue to bed, we’re already conceptualizing the summer issue. You can’t always live in the moment in this business, but we always have something to look forward to! Got a story idea? Email me at editor@okanaganwoman.com.

TJ Facebook.com/OkanaganWomanMagazine Twitter.com/OkanaganEditor

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LIKE US ON FACEBOOK AND FOLLOW US ON TWITTER SO YOU WILL ALWAYS KNOW ABOUT UPCOMING CONTESTS AND DRAWS!

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 5

become a soft issue?” the Premier further queries. “It’s the most important investment a society makes. If we want to be a wealthy society, we need to have the best education system we can. And women tend to be more focused on that than men.”

BY: SHANNON LINDEN

A chat with BC’s 35th Premier about Women in Politics

So why aren’t there more of us in politics?

Her press secretary, Sam, refers to his boss as “The Premier.” It’s all very formal, as one might expect when addressing the most powerful woman in the province, but from the minute I secure an interview with the Honourable Christy Clark, I want to call her by her first name.

The Premier acknowledges it’s harder to get women to run for office. If more of us don’t throw our hats in the ring, fewer of us will achieve high profile positions. Statistically men are still promoting men and women are still the primary childcare providers (not to mention caregivers to aging parents). Despite a new era for women, we’re still grappling with the old career versus home conflict. On top of that—Clark doesn’t

the media perpetuates the standard and like it or not, people take note if she gets a haircut. Maybe the surest sign the playing field is leveling is when our Prime Minister garners accolades for being charming and handsome, with fine taste in fashion to boot. Clark doesn’t allow criticism to derail her ambition and moreover, her sense of self. Virtually every day on the job she’s vulnerable but at the end of the day, she’s the boss. “Yes, it hurts more but how hard is it?” she asks. “I get to be Premier.” The bigger issue—what Clark sees as problematic for many women, no matter our calling—is making ourselves heard. “Every woman has been there, at the corporate table, when you say something and the guy beside you says the exact same thing and the boss looks at the guy and says, ‘That’s a good point, Joe.’ The

Boss Moms

According to Clark, women’s drive to make a difference makes them good politicians. “Look at Michelle Stillwell,” she says, referring to the MLA for Parksville-Qualicum and Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation. “She’s a mother of a child with autism, she’s a paraolympian with a gazillion—well, a lot of gold medals,” she says, laughing. “Women say they can’t get into politics because they have kids but maybe that’s why they should. Michelle is having a real impact helping to redesign our policy on children with special needs because she knows it.” Clark herself holds the notable title of second woman in Canadian history to give birth while serving as a cabinet minister (she was Deputy Minister and Minister of

I get to make a difference today.” That is right after she stumbles for the coffee pot. “Other than my son, it’s the most essential part of my life—my Nespresso machine,” she jokes.

What this Okanagan Woman wants to share with her Sisters

“There were two years everyone said I couldn’t do it—from between when I got elected leader and then the (2013) election. We went in something like 22 points behind in the polls and the day the election got called everybody had written me off as a loser,” she frankly admits. “I felt like I was the only person who believed I could win…but what I learned was self-reliance and resilience in the face of doubting.” Attributes a politician surely needs

ALL PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Coffee with

y intuition proves correct: she’s smart, sophisticated, smoothly articulate (I love her voice) and warmly welcoming. Wearing a signature suit and her infectious smile, as I hand her a coffee—Starbucks; medium, double-shot latte, refreshingly full fat—she breathes a big sigh. “Thank-you!” she says toasting her cup in gratitude. “This is the best thing that’s happened to me all day.”

A hundred years since we got the vote

This year—2016—marks the centennial of women’s right to vote in Canada. Women first marked ballots in Manitoba followed by Saskatchewan and Alberta. British Columbian women were next, in 1917. Quebec, the hold-out

CHRISTY province, waited until 1940 to allow women the fundamental right—long after the federal government had extended it in national elections (sadly excluding First Nations and Asian women) in 1921. We’ve come a long way but according to statistics, we still have a ways to go. Half the world’s population is women, yet only about 20% are represented in politics. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has set a course to change that in Canada, naming women to half his cabinet. A bold move in the name of gender-equality but does this province’s leader share the vision? One of only three female first ministers currently serving the country (Rachel Notley is the New Democratic Party Premier in Alberta while Kathleen Wynne is the Liberal Premier of Ontario), Christy Clark was sworn in as

8 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

Premier of BC for a second term On June 10, 2013. A month later she was elected MLA of WestsideKelowna in a by-election. She’s proud of her accomplishments but quick to point out quotas aren’t the way women earn their place in her politics. “Every single woman that is in my cabinet is there because she has created her job. Look at Shirley Bond. I would argue she’s one of the best cabinet ministers in the country and not because she’s a woman—well…” Clark thinks about it a moment. “Maybe partly because she’s a woman but she’s not there because she’s a woman; she’s there because she’s great.” MLA for Prince GeorgeValemount and Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour, Bond boasts an impressive fourteen years of cabinet experience, including serving as

Deputy Premier. She was Minister of Justice when she became the province’s first female Attorney General, earning accolades as a trailblazer and Clark’s immense respect. “Shirley moved conflict out of the courts into less expensive, less confrontational and time consuming forums—more mediation as an example.” “I don’t see women and men differently in terms of ability but I do recognize that women bring something different to the table.” Clark scoffs at critics who point to the propensity to appoint women to the so-called “soft portfolios.” “Justice Reform—this is not a soft issue!” she says, incredulously. “The reason our society takes rape so seriously is partly because women fought for that. We don’t even think about that today.” “Since when did education

pull any punches—it’s nasty out there. “We often face barriers we’re not prepared to confront in politics. It can be really ugly.” No one likes to be criticized for their work; politicians sign up for regular assault. The scrutiny isn’t limited to policy; it often includes personal jabs aimed at more than performance. “The opposition always talks about me being a ‘photo op’ Premier because I get my picture taken all the time. I’m smiling too much,” Clark says, shaking her head. “You’d never say that to a man. It’s meant to diminish women…all smiles and no brains.” Here’s the thing: Christy Clark just happens to be strikingly attractive with a signature smile that lights up her face, making her brilliant blue eyes sparkle. Of course that has nothing to do with her ability to lead the country’s third most populated province but

“

I love getting up every morning and thinking, I get to make a difference today.”

impacts are real. You don’t get promoted or listened to. You don’t get that raise you want.” Perhaps her work in radio (in 2005 she stepped off the political stage and into the control room as a columnist and host of the Christy Clark Show on CKNW) honed her velvety voice because people listen to this Okanagan Woman. And she listens to them. “My favourite part of the day when the legislature is meeting is when I leave question period and stop and talk with visitors. Where are they from? Why are they there? What do they do? Those interactions mean a lot to me. I learn a lot about the province and where we need to go.”

Education in 2001). She credits her fourteen-year old son, Hamish, as inspiration. “It’s challenging for him, though he’s lived with it for all his life. He doesn’t like that it eats up a lot of our time together but—and this could come across as selfjustifying—I wanted to put the BC Liberal party in a position to win the election and I felt I could make a real contribution to that. I thought to myself, I have an opportunity to make a difference, if I turn away from it because it’s going to be hard, I’m setting a really bad example for my son.” Instead Clark hopes her son will learn the way to change the world is to give back to the community around him. “There is no realm of employment where you can make a bigger difference than politics. I really believe that. I love getting up every morning and thinking,

but every woman—regardless of work outside or inside the home— would do well to cultivate. “It’s hard but don’t give up on yourself. We all have a lot in us and we should find the strength in ourselves. We are who we choose to be. It’s a message we give our kids but we forget ourselves.” “It’s hard to become Premier out of nowhere,” Clark advises. “Be a mayor or MLA first.” But be something—because we cannot win if we do not enter the race. “We need a bigger pool to choose from,” she encourages. “I hope some of your readers will say, ‘Okay, I want to put myself in that pool.’” Wise advice from a woman who would know: March 2016 Christina Joan “Christy” Clark surpasses Eva Aariak of Nunavut to become the longest serving female Premier in Canadian history.

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 9

BY: SHANNON LINDEN

A chat with BC’s 35th Premier about Women in Politics

So why aren’t there more of us in politics?

Boss Moms

I get to make a difference today.” That is right after she stumbles for the coffee pot. “Other than my son, it’s the most essential part of my life—my Nespresso machine,” she jokes.

What this Okanagan Woman wants to share with her Sisters

ALL PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Coffee with

A hundred years since we got the vote

8 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

“

I love getting up every morning and thinking, I get to make a difference today.”

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 9

OKANAGAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Carmina Burana

March BALLET KELOWNA - BOUNDLESS

Date: March 5, 2016 Time: 7:30PM Location: Vernon & District Performing Arts Centre Address: 3800 - 33rd Street, Vernon Tickets: www.ticketseller.ca

ROYAL WINNIPEG BALLET

presents Going Home Star Truth and Reconciliation Date: March 29, March 30, 2016 Time: 7:30PM Admission: $58.99 - $86.29 Location: Kelowna Community Theatre Address: 1375 Water Street, Kelowna Phone: 250-469-8940 Tickets: www.kelownatickets.com

April ZZ TOP

Date: April 6, 2016 Time: 7:30PM Admission: $39 - $89.50 Location: Prospera Place Address: 1223 Water Street, Kelowna Phone: 250-762-5050

COTTAGES & LAKEFRONT LIVING SHOW Date: April 8 – April 10, 2016 Time: 9:00AM – 6:00PM Location: Kelowna Curling Club Address: 551 Recreation Ave, Kelowna Phone: 1-587-938-5240

The Four Seasons

Date: April 8, 2016 Time: 7:30PM Location: KELOWNA Phone: 250-862-2867 Date: April 9, 2016 Time: 7:30PM Location: PENTICTON Phone: 250-763-7544 Date: April 10, 2016 Time: 7:00PM Location: VERNON Phone: 250-763-7544 www.okanagansymphony.com

APPETITE FOR ART FUNDRAISER

Date: April 9, 2016 Time: 7:00PM – 10:00PM Admission: $120 each or group of 4 for $420 (save $60) Location: Kelowna Art Gallery Address: 1315 Water Street, Kelowna Phone: 250-762-2226

18TH ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT

Date: MAY 6, 2016 Time: 7:30PM Location: KELOWNA Phone: 250-862-2867 Date: MAY 7, 2016 Time: 7:30PM Location: PENTICTON Phone: 250-763-7544 Date: MAY 8, 2016 Time: 7:30PM Location: VERNON Phone: 250-763-7544 www.okanagansymphony.com

STARS ON ICE

Date: May 18, 2016 Time: 6:00PM Admission: $110, $75, $45, $25 Location: Prospera Place Address: 1223 Water Street, Kelowna Phone: 250-762-5050

Get your life back.

Peachland Lions Date: April 24, 2016 Time: Putting contest 11:30AM – 12:30PM Shotgun start at 1:00PM Admission: Early bird $99 incl. cart, golf & dinner Regular $110 incl. cart, golf & dinner Dinner Guest $35 Location: Summerland Golf and Country Club Contact: garystephens@hotmail.com Phone: 250-767-5258

1ST ANNUAL DIVAS AND DIAMONDS NIGHT Ladies only fundraising event – all proceeds to KGH Date: April 30, 2016 Time: 12:30PM Admission: $85 per Diva Location: Westbank Lions Community Hall Address: 2466 Main Street, West Kelowna Contact: Lynne Herrin 250-767-6225 or Shelley Sweeney 250-212-2025 Online at www.peachlandlions.com/events

Bill Dick 20+ years of personal injury claims, insurance disputes & medical malpractice claims

Joe Murphy, Q.C. 30+ years of medical malpractice experience

For more than 30 years we’ve been helping British Columbians successfully conclude complex accident and medical negligence claims. We have won some of the largest personal injury awards in BC.

Vancouver 604-683-9621

Keri Grenier 14+ years of personal injury law and medical malpractice experience

Scott Stanley 20+ years experience with insurance law and personal injury law

Dianna Robertson Personal Injury Lawyer, former Okanagan Occupational Therapist

murphybattista.com Kelowna 250-979-7230

6 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

www.hollywoodshoes.ca

250 860 0970

Date: March 6, 2016 Time: 7:30PM Location: Centre Stage Theatre, Address: 9518 Main St., Summerland Phone: 1-888-974-9170 Tickets: www.kelownatickets.com

OKANAGAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

150 Hollywood Rd. KELOWNA , BC

hen & where

Available at:

May

Toll Free 1-888-683-9621

Matthew Van Nostrand Personal Injury Lawyer, born and raised in Kelowna

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 7

OKANAGAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Carmina Burana

March BALLET KELOWNA - BOUNDLESS

Date: March 5, 2016 Time: 7:30PM Location: Vernon & District Performing Arts Centre Address: 3800 - 33rd Street, Vernon Tickets: www.ticketseller.ca

ROYAL WINNIPEG BALLET

April ZZ TOP

Date: April 6, 2016 Time: 7:30PM Admission: $39 - $89.50 Location: Prospera Place Address: 1223 Water Street, Kelowna Phone: 250-762-5050

COTTAGES & LAKEFRONT LIVING SHOW Date: April 8 – April 10, 2016 Time: 9:00AM – 6:00PM Location: Kelowna Curling Club Address: 551 Recreation Ave, Kelowna Phone: 1-587-938-5240

The Four Seasons

APPETITE FOR ART FUNDRAISER

Date: April 9, 2016 Time: 7:00PM – 10:00PM Admission: $120 each or group of 4 for $420 (save $60) Location: Kelowna Art Gallery Address: 1315 Water Street, Kelowna Phone: 250-762-2226

18TH ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT

STARS ON ICE

Date: May 18, 2016 Time: 6:00PM Admission: $110, $75, $45, $25 Location: Prospera Place Address: 1223 Water Street, Kelowna Phone: 250-762-5050

Get your life back.

Bill Dick 20+ years of personal injury claims, insurance disputes & medical malpractice claims

Joe Murphy, Q.C. 30+ years of medical malpractice experience

For more than 30 years we’ve been helping British Columbians successfully conclude complex accident and medical negligence claims. We have won some of the largest personal injury awards in BC.

Vancouver 604-683-9621

Keri Grenier 14+ years of personal injury law and medical malpractice experience

Scott Stanley 20+ years experience with insurance law and personal injury law

Dianna Robertson Personal Injury Lawyer, former Okanagan Occupational Therapist

murphybattista.com Kelowna 250-979-7230

6 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

www.hollywoodshoes.ca

250 860 0970

Date: March 6, 2016 Time: 7:30PM Location: Centre Stage Theatre, Address: 9518 Main St., Summerland Phone: 1-888-974-9170 Tickets: www.kelownatickets.com

OKANAGAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

150 Hollywood Rd. KELOWNA , BC

hen & where

Available at:

May

Toll Free 1-888-683-9621

Matthew Van Nostrand Personal Injury Lawyer, born and raised in Kelowna

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 7

E S C A P E . R E LA X . S AV O U R .

five WAYS to get

on Okanagan Lake

PHOTO CREDIT: DESTINATION BC/ DON WEIXL

HAPPY in the Okanagan

BY DONA STURMANIS

If you want to become happier, you can!

Rather than waiting for it to happen to you, why not make it happen to you? Psychology and science have come up with some surprising things you can do to lift your spirits this spring and the year coming. What better place to do them but in the Okanagan? Here are a few proven tips to try.

WHERE to do it...

FIVE PROVEN WAYS TO GET HAPPY IN FIVE MINUTES:

l. Put a big smile on your face and crinkle your eyes. 2. Call a friend and have a positive conversation. 3. Take a brisk stroll outside. 4. Think of three things you’re grateful for. 5. Think of one good thing that happened to you today. Dona Sturmanis’s book on happiness, I’m Here for the Bliss: Happiness in All States of Health will be out in later 2016. Visit curiousbeyondwords.com.

The ultimate Okanagan experiences to lift your spirits is to attend one of our many festivals and fairs. Spread the happiness by bringing family and friends…and bring lots of cameras and selfie sticks. You’re going to need them for all the fun you’re going to have. There are family and children’s festivals, cowboy and music festivals,—even an Elvis festival. We’re especially fond of naming festivals after just about every fruit you can think of…cherry, peach, grape, and tomato. The Okanagan has nature festivals, salmon festivals, beer festivals, festivals of lights and festivals of trees. And the beauty of all these events is that most of them are free! How happy does that make you?

3. Savour the good things in life to increase your joy…

Put kick-back & relax on your to-do list. Soul nurturing getaways that will feel miles away

PHOTO CREDIT: DESTINATION BC/ ANDREW STRAIN

from the everyday.

l. Being around water makes us happy—whether you’re walking

summerlandresorthotel.com 15 minutes north of Penticton

10 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

beside it, paddling on it, swimming in it or scuba diving under its surface. Water makes us calm and connects us to nature. What better place to experience how water improves your well being than the Okanagan? With all of our lakes and rivers to choose from, you’re bound to have a favourite. In the north, many water lovers adore Kalamalka Lake with its distinctive blue and green hues caused by minerals that form crystals and reflect sunlight

in the summer. The gorgeous lake is located in Kalamalka Provincial Park, with a unique landscape and rare, endangered wildlife. Massive Okanagan Lake can be enjoyed from many vantage points, but in Kelowna, many people like Bertram Creek Regional Park on Lakeshore Road past Cedar Creek Winery. The well-groomed 17.9 hectare park features walking paths, many amenities, a swimming and boat beach. Vaseux Lake in the South Okanagan is also a very special body of water. Located in a provincial park, it is a national bird sanctuary,

and backed by bluffs inhabited by Calfiornia bighorn sheep. (And it’s got great fishing!)

2.You’ll be happier spending your money on experiences rather than things. You’ll look forward

to them with anticipation, whereas waiting for something you ordered, you might simply be impatient. You’ll also be more pleased with your experience because you can’t really compare it to others, while you can certainly compare things. And while the memory of an experience lives on, material purchases deteriorate.

especially the food and wine experience! What better place to celebrate exceptionally good wine and food than in the Okanagan? We’re very fortunate to live in a region that is becoming internationally famous for both its vino and its cuisine. In the Okanagan you’ll find 200+ wineries (as well as cideries, breweries and distilleries). Bring your family and friends and visit them, not just for tasting but also for the experience! Every winery has its own character, “story”, unique setting and of course characteristic wines…get to know your favourites. Many wineries also have world-class restaurants, so you can combine your love of both. You can even take cooking classes at some of these wineries. Keep your eye out all summer for special foodie events that pop up. They’re pretty spectacular. You can dine in an orchard at a long communal table eating amazing dishes prepared from local produce by rock star chefs. You can visit a farm that has been taken over by chefs and winemakers offering samples of incredible fare at food stations among the trees. If you’re lucky you can even become part of a thousand or so lucky folks who show up at a secret location each summer all dressed in white to eat dinner, drink wine and celebrate life in the Okanagan summer! And don’t forget to visit Okanagan Farmer’s Markets. Every town has one. Here you’ll find local produce, artisanal food products and occasionally some wine or spirits to sample. It’s easy to go home and realize that every dish you make for your meal can be made of local ingredients.

4. Happy people know the importance of “chilling” and how to do it.

The Okanagan is the perfect place for beating stress. There are many talented massage specialists here in the Valley. You may know one; if not ask a friend for a referral. Or why not book an appointment at one of the many fine spas throughout the Valley? You’ll find every type of massage you want ranging from gentle Swedish relaxation to aromatherapy to hot stone to deep tissue and shiatsu, guaranteed to get out the knots. Some practitioners are offering their own unique blends of different styles. And…don’t forget to add some special facial treatments or body wraps if you feel so inclined! Ah, yoga. Studies show that yoga practitioners experience high states of well being. There are many knowledgeable yoga instructors in the Okanagan, offering various methods of the practice. You’ll be able to easily find a teacher you like, a style you prefer, a venue that suits you (from a recreation class to a devoted studio), and at a level that makes you comfortable. As for the South Okanagan, even though it has great spas and yoga places, for chilling, we had to choose floating down the Okanagan River Channel. For the whole family, floating down the channel in inner tubes from Okanagan Lake to Skaha Lake is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Penticton and a favorite for fun summer activities for kids. The river channel is about 7 km (just over 4 miles) long, with a rest stop at the halfway point, at Green Mountain Road.

5. People who help people are happier and healthier, and volunteering is a great way to do it. Offer to assist someone you know—

help them buy groceries, drive them around, look after their kids or pets. If you want to get more involved, you need only look around your community. Volunteer at any SPCA in the Okanagan Valley. Find out how you can get involved in volunteering for many community events like the Penticton Triathlon Challenge or the Vernon Winter Carnival. Find out what you can do at the hospital or hospice. You’ll wake up in the morning with a purpose!

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 11

E S C A P E . R E LA X . S AV O U R .

five WAYS to get

on Okanagan Lake

PHOTO CREDIT: DESTINATION BC/ DON WEIXL

HAPPY in the Okanagan

BY DONA STURMANIS

If you want to become happier, you can!

WHERE to do it...

FIVE PROVEN WAYS TO GET HAPPY IN FIVE MINUTES:

3. Savour the good things in life to increase your joy…

Put kick-back & relax on your to-do list. Soul nurturing getaways that will feel miles away

PHOTO CREDIT: DESTINATION BC/ ANDREW STRAIN

from the everyday.

l. Being around water makes us happy—whether you’re walking

summerlandresorthotel.com 15 minutes north of Penticton

10 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

and backed by bluffs inhabited by Calfiornia bighorn sheep. (And it’s got great fishing!)

2.You’ll be happier spending your money on experiences rather than things. You’ll look forward

4. Happy people know the importance of “chilling” and how to do it.

5. People who help people are happier and healthier, and volunteering is a great way to do it. Offer to assist someone you know—

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 11

NEW YEAR

MAKEOVER CONTEST In the last issue of Okanagan Woman Magazine, readers were invited to enter our Spring contest by telling us why they deserved a makeover. Thank you to the dozens of women who shared their stories. You tugged at our heartstrings and conﬁrmed what we already knew – that Okanagan Women are brilliant and resilient, humble and hard working. Ladies, you amaze us! While it is never easy to make a selection, especially with so many heartfelt entries, in the end, we chose single Mom, Debbie Neﬀ’s story – for her positivity and her commitment to family, health and her future.

As Debbie shares her story with the Okanagan Woman team, we are struck by her candor and warmth.

Single mother of five boys, Okanagan Woman makeover contest winner, Debbie Neff, spends the day getting camera ready for her glamorous photo shoot.

it’s time for

BY PATTI SHALES LEFKOS

n January 6 Debbie Neff went home for a lunch break from her job cleaning houses and checked her messages. Nothing. Disappointed, she thought, “It’s OK. Someone else got it.” Moments later the phone rang. “I thought it must be a wrong number, but I answered it anyway. It was Suzy van Bakel, the publisher of Okanagan Woman, telling me I was chosen as the winner.” Debbie remembers the feeling of shock, the blood draining from her face. “I had pretty much resigned myself to the fact that I didn’t win,” she says. “I told my story from the heart. I didn’t make it better or less, I didn’t want to dwell on the negative. But, I did say the kids are OK and now it’s time for me.” As Debbie shares her story with the Okanagan Woman team, we are struck by her candor and warmth. Now 57, Debbie spent her first five years in Vernon. The family moved to Merritt where she attended Diamond Vale Elementary and Merritt Secondary. Her mom died when Debbie was just18, she left home and landed a job in Kamloops as receptionist at the YMCA. A

12 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

“I TOLD MY STORY FROM THE HEART. I DIDN’T MAKE IT BETTER OR LESS, I DIDN’T WANT TO DWELL ON THE NEGATIVE. BUT, I DID SAY THE KIDS ARE OK AND NOW IT’S TIME FOR ME.”

ALL PHOTOS BY ALISHA KHAN PHOTOGRAPHY

stint in Edmonton, sewing back pockets on jeans at the Great Western Garment factory, ensued. Then back to Merritt for 5 years as a chambermaid. Next, after 6 months as a cleaner at Apex Ski Resort, Debbie decided to start her own cleaning business. “I got married in 1990, had five boys in 10 years, and divorced in 2004,” she says. “Walker, the youngest was three when their father flew the coop, leaving me with minimal emotional and financial support. “I had no choice but to move on. I made a commitment to show my boys the way.” She did, and then some. Walker, now 17, is on the honour roll at Mount Boucherie Secondary. Levi, 18, is studying Audio Engineering at Okanagan College, and Blaze, 20, is in his third year of Electrical Engineering at UBCO.

Already out in the work force, Skylar, 24 works as an IT Tech for Interior Health in Kelowna while older brother Cotton, 27, is a Senior Account Manager at RBC in Penticton. How did she do it? “I’m determined,” she says. “And it was a team effort. The boys worked delivering papers, then took turns carrying the Little Caesars shaker advertising board and later making pizzas. Tuition has been covered by bursaries from the Legion, as the boys’ father was in the Army Reserves, and student loans. Cotton, the eldest, spent some time working as a chef at Kelly O’Bryans.” Still, it wasn’t easy. Debbie and the boys lived in the three-bedroom basement section of a Westbank fourplex apartment building. The boys had bunks in two of the bedrooms. “We had to go to the food bank all the time. Boys eat a lot,” she laughs, “We had no money but we were very close. They respect me.” “There were lots of times when they drove me crazy. One time when I had had it with them I went down to the lake and had a good cry,” she says. “ I was gone quite a while.” When she got back, the lights were all out. The boys yelled surprise when she walked in. They had cleaned the house. “Come sit at the table,” they said, and served burnt hot dogs and buns with peanut butter. “Those were the best hot dogs I ever tasted,” she said smiling, “Those were the moments to remember.” Debbie starts her new look at Kelowna’s upscale but very friendly Loyal Hair Therapy at their Harvey Avenue location. Owner Loyal Taylor takes

community involvement seriously. “We do one event per month, collaborating with organizations like Canadian Mental Health and partnering with Sun FM in the I Am Me. Own It anti-bullying campaign.” Dressed in a royal-blue T-shirt that enhances her striking blue eyes, Debbie looks a bit apprehensive in her new surroundings. Stylist Karisa Best’s gentle, respectful manner helps Debbie feel comfortable during their brief consultation. They have agreed on a warm honey brown tone for Debbie’s hair. Karisa is already working on it. “I wanted the colour to be in her comfort zone. I was glad when she decided to go darker,” says Karisa. Over a sink near the back of the salon Karisa massages conditioner into Debbie’s hair. A look of serenity washes over Debbie’s face. She stretches back against the sink, hands gently folded in her lap. One hour later the beginning of the makeover transformation is evident. Karisa has cut, coloured, conditioned and styled Debbie’s now honey brown locks into beautiful smooth, silky curls. “It feels so much lighter, like a weight has been lifted,” says Debbie as we head across the street to Faces, Body + Soul in the Orchard Park Mall for the next stage of the makeover. Owner Susanne Engel and Dermalogica expert Tarah Buchanan welcome Debbie like a long lost friend. Susanne, opened Faces in 2001. “Our

community donations include working with Dry Grad and 100+ Women Who Care Kelowna,” she says. Bonds were formed the previous day when Debbie was treated to a few hours of massage, facial and manicure from Tarah. Debbie settles eagerly into makeup artist Ashley Dallimore’s chair. “For foundation I’m using Dermalogica Ultr-calming toning mist and primer,” she explains. Eyebrow shaping complete, she applies a neutral beige-toned eye shadow with a bit of shine. Then the fun begins. With a tiny impish grin Debbie answers yes to glue on eyelash strips. “Is this really happening? Am I really here?” says Debbie. “You look gorgeous,” says Ashley. “Oh my, I don’t think I’ve ever been told that before,” says Debbie. Ashley completes the look with a lip colour from Faces own line, Pink Glove, then twirls the chair to give Debbie her first glance in the mirror. “Who is that person?” she asks, sitting up straighter, confidence blossoming. “I can’t believe it’s me.” OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 13

NEW YEAR

As Debbie shares her story with the Okanagan Woman team, we are struck by her candor and warmth.

Single mother of five boys, Okanagan Woman makeover contest winner, Debbie Neff, spends the day getting camera ready for her glamorous photo shoot.

it’s time for

BY PATTI SHALES LEFKOS

12 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

“I TOLD MY STORY FROM THE HEART. I DIDN’T MAKE IT BETTER OR LESS, I DIDN’T WANT TO DWELL ON THE NEGATIVE. BUT, I DID SAY THE KIDS ARE OK AND NOW IT’S TIME FOR ME.”

ALL PHOTOS BY ALISHA KHAN PHOTOGRAPHY

It’s been a glorious day for everyone. For Debbie, it’s transformational. “I used to go out after work in my 20s, with makeup, hair done, then ﬁve kids happened. Now, it’s my time. I can do this. This is my year of change.”

She’s walking noticeably taller as she makes her way through the mall to the Triple Concept Laura, Laura Petites, Laura Plus store, where she’s greeted by manager Krista Pallos and senior stylist Kim Bergstrom. Trying on clothes is now especially gratifying for Debbie who since April 2014 has lost 80 pounds. “I decided I was going to start living a healthier life. Chips were my downfall. Now it’s veggies, green tea and lots of water. No more migraine headaches. I started by eating less, I worked out on a treadmill, I parked long distances from stores on purpose and I do get exercise in my cleaning job,” she says. “Seeing results and receiving compliments keep me motivated. At some points, you feel hopeless, then people notice and it makes you want to do more.”

“I don’t even feel like myself,” says Debbie, smiling into the full-length mirror. “It’s such a good feeling.”

14 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

You go, girl!

ADVICE FROM A SUCCESSFUL SINGLE MOM

DON’T SETTLE FOR LESS. DON’T FEEL GUILTY FOR WANTING MORE.

Kim puts her amazing talent to work, picking out just the right pieces to adorn Debbie’s body type and colouring. After deliberating over a wonderful array of garments, Debbie models two outfits. The first ensemble combines a black and turquoise chiffon floral blouse with built in camisole and black pants. Krista immediately adds a gold necklace and cuff, but then switches to an even better choice of a long sliver leaf necklace. The second ensemble is a slimming black sleeveless dress with lace bodice, satin sash and chiffon full skirt. Kim gracefully adds a lace bolero to complement the look. Both outfits look incredible…. but Kim goes one step further and adds an edgy black leather-look jacket from Laura Plus, amazing! But no outfit is complete without footwear, Debbie selects a fabulous pair of leather ankle boots from Hollywood shoes, a perfect choice! “I’ve never had boots like this before,” she says, staring down at her feet. “They are so comfortable, so soft and so beautiful.” Krista and Kim continue to work on accessorizing the outfits, this time with a very striking tri-toned drop necklace and three tiered jewel earrings from their sister store, the slightly more trendy and contemporary, Melanie Lyne. “I don’t even feel like myself,” says Debbie, smiling into the full-length mirror. “It’s such a good feeling.” At that, Kim gets a bit weepy at witnessing the final transformation. “It’s not just about selling clothes,” she says. “It’s a huge deal. She doesn’t look like the same person we met yesterday.” at this point, we are all tearing up!

Final decision made, Debbie chooses the gorgeous black dress and lacy bolero. She grabs the leather jacket, puts her hands in the pockets and smiles confidently. “It’s my time to rebel against the kids,” she laughs. “I’m rockin’ this one. It’s pretty cool.” Last stop, The Body Shop, where manager Tammy Peterson presents Debbie with a gorgeous gift basket of foot and body care products and candles. “Everything she needs to pamper herself,” says Tammy. “One of our store’s core values is activating self esteem.”

DEBBIE’S GOALS FOR 2016

1 2 3 4

To look good and feel healthy by New Years 2016.

Take some courses.

Change my profession to something in healthcare, working with people.

Find a partner, not just a boyfriend, a keeper.

ADMIRED MENTOR

“Eight years ago I cleaned house for Hazel Nielson who was raising five kids on her own after her husband was killed working on the Alaska Highway. I listened to her stories. If she can do this, I can do this,” I thought. “She encouraged me.”

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 15

“I don’t even feel like myself,” says Debbie, smiling into the full-length mirror. “It’s such a good feeling.”

14 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

You go, girl!

ADVICE FROM A SUCCESSFUL SINGLE MOM

DON’T SETTLE FOR LESS. DON’T FEEL GUILTY FOR WANTING MORE.

DEBBIE’S GOALS FOR 2016

1 2 3 4

To look good and feel healthy by New Years 2016.

Take some courses.

Change my profession to something in healthcare, working with people.

Find a partner, not just a boyfriend, a keeper.

ADMIRED MENTOR

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 15

GOOD THINGS 1 come in3s

How to Succeed in Retail: ThreeWishes Clothing Boutique

MARILYN HELBLING, DIANA SKELHORNE, LINDA WARD, PAT CURRIE, SHAREN DEGELDER, CONNIE WALBERGS, JEANNINE BROWN, MARILYN ORDZE

ANCIENT GRAINS AMARANTH BUCKWHEAT MILLET QUINOA KAMUT® SPELT WHOLE GRAINS BARLEY CORN OATS RICE RYE SORGHUM (ALSO CALLED MILO) TEFF TRITICALE

2 3

“style is never static and there are always new trends out there that will be attractive to our customers.” If Pat Currie has learned anything from her 20 years as owner of Three Wishes Clothing Boutique in Penticton, it is that “style is never static and there are always new trends out there that will be attractive to our customers.” She attends trade shows in Vancouver, Montreal, Toronto, Las Vegas and New York, in search of the casual, career and special occasion fashions the boutique has become so well known for.

Staff matters ...

Everyone loves a friendly face and Pat’s got that covered. Her experienced, knowledgeable staff assist women of all ages and stages to find just the right piece of clothing for any occasion. They’ll help you with special and custom orders, too!

Shoppers love events ...

That’s why Three Wishes offers great ones throughout the year, like trunk shows, visits from jewelry designers and the semiannual “Silly Sale.”

Discover an oasis of comfort & style in the heart of Downtown Penticton!

We welcome you to stop by and enjoy a relaxing browse through our intriguing collection of designer clothing, beautiful jewelry & accessories, unique footwear & lifestyle products designed to complete your day! Open 7 days a week Sizes XS – XXL.

and too!

DOWNTOWN PENTICTON 370 Main Street 250.490.4899 fashion@threewishesclothing.com threewishesclothing.com facebook.com/threewishesclothing

What’s Old is New again!

Refresh your tastebuds and renew your energy with ancient whole grains Lately, you’ve probably heard a lot of references to “ancient grains.” The very term implies these are old grains that have been resurrected from near extinction. While many ancient grains haven’t been popular in North America, people around the world have enjoyed their taste and benefits for thousands of years. These tasty whole grain options are definitely here to stay. Ancient and whole grains are rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber, and many vitamins and minerals. They are also very low in fat, and when eaten in combination with beans and other legumes, are a good source of complete protein.

WHEAT WILD RICE

16 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

What exactly is meant by Whole Grains?

Whole grains or foods made from them contain all the essential parts and naturallyoccurring nutrients of the entire grain seed in their original proportions. If the grain has been processed (e.g., cracked, crushed, rolled, extruded, and/or cooked), the food product should deliver the same rich balance of nutrients that are found in the

original grain seed. Nutritionists and the Canada Food Guide urge us to eat more grain products as a healthy substitute for high-fat foods and recommend we include plenty of grain based starches, such as breads, cereals, pasta and rice in our diets, along with dried beans, peas and other legumes. With that in mind, we’ve gathered up some recipes so you can add them to any meal of the day. You’ll find breakfast and lunch recipes on page 21, supper on page 34 and dessert on page 38. All recipes courtesy of Oldways Whole Grain Council. Visit wholegraincouncil.org for more recipes and information about grains.

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 17

GOOD THINGS 1 come in3s

How to Succeed in Retail: ThreeWishes Clothing Boutique

MARILYN HELBLING, DIANA SKELHORNE, LINDA WARD, PAT CURRIE, SHAREN DEGELDER, CONNIE WALBERGS, JEANNINE BROWN, MARILYN ORDZE

ANCIENT GRAINS AMARANTH BUCKWHEAT MILLET QUINOA KAMUT® SPELT WHOLE GRAINS BARLEY CORN OATS RICE RYE SORGHUM (ALSO CALLED MILO) TEFF TRITICALE

2 3

Staff matters ...

Shoppers love events ...

That’s why Three Wishes offers great ones throughout the year, like trunk shows, visits from jewelry designers and the semiannual “Silly Sale.”

Discover an oasis of comfort & style in the heart of Downtown Penticton!

and too!

DOWNTOWN PENTICTON 370 Main Street 250.490.4899 fashion@threewishesclothing.com threewishesclothing.com facebook.com/threewishesclothing

What’s Old is New again!

WHEAT WILD RICE

16 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

What exactly is meant by Whole Grains?

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 17

F A S H IO N

PICKS REAL DEALS BOUTIQUE

MUVSETS HA

featuring trendy plus size fashions to size 3x

CRUZWEAR UNLIMITED

Realdeals.net/kelowna

cruzwear.com

100% cotton, tie-dyed kimono, $69

SWIMWEAR,

Bella Casa lcomes we an Lym Frank Design line to its en’s of womrel. appa

& Skype

Sunﬂair bathing suit

199

CASA BELLA BOUTIQUE

www.cruzwear.com

okanaganplus.com

Frank Lyman Design

Shop on-line 24/7 1.877.667.8450

539 Bernard Ave, Kelowna, BC V1Y 6N9 (250) 860-8879

F R E E PA R K I N G AT B A C K D O O R

Casa Bella Boutique

1 - 3212 30th Avenue, Vernon | 778.475.4603

104

OKANAGAN PLUS okanaganplus.com

Pretty Woman tunic $104

FASHION FOUNDATIONS

Sports bra with style!

fashionfoundations.ca silk chemise $189 silk robe $279

189

SILHOUETTE FASHION BOUTIQUE

18 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

THE LARGEST

ESE OUT TH CHECK

armstrongwoman.com

279

Canadian made Libra top $68

THURS, FRI & SAT 10-6 2516 Patterson Avenue ARMSTRONG 1.877.667.8450 armstrongwoman.com

778.363.6185 1075 McCurdy RD • Kelowna, BC V1X 2P9 www.realdeals.net/kelowna /realdealskelowna

Fashion Foundations.ca Personal Fittings • Petite to Plus 1385 ELLIS ST. KELOWNA BC 250.763.1473 233 COLUMBIA AVE. CASTLEGAR 250.365.1474

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 19

F A S H IO N

PICKS REAL DEALS BOUTIQUE

MUVSETS HA

featuring trendy plus size fashions to size 3x

CRUZWEAR UNLIMITED

Realdeals.net/kelowna

cruzwear.com

100% cotton, tie-dyed kimono, $69

SWIMWEAR,

Bella Casa lcomes we an Lym Frank Design line to its en’s of womrel. appa

& Skype

Sunﬂair bathing suit

199

CASA BELLA BOUTIQUE

www.cruzwear.com

okanaganplus.com

Frank Lyman Design

Shop on-line 24/7 1.877.667.8450

539 Bernard Ave, Kelowna, BC V1Y 6N9 (250) 860-8879

F R E E PA R K I N G AT B A C K D O O R

Casa Bella Boutique

1 - 3212 30th Avenue, Vernon | 778.475.4603

104

OKANAGAN PLUS okanaganplus.com

Pretty Woman tunic $104

FASHION FOUNDATIONS

Sports bra with style!

fashionfoundations.ca silk chemise $189 silk robe $279

189

SILHOUETTE FASHION BOUTIQUE

18 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

THE LARGEST

ESE OUT TH CHECK

armstrongwoman.com

279

Canadian made Libra top $68

THURS, FRI & SAT 10-6 2516 Patterson Avenue ARMSTRONG 1.877.667.8450 armstrongwoman.com

778.363.6185 1075 McCurdy RD • Kelowna, BC V1X 2P9 www.realdeals.net/kelowna /realdealskelowna

Fashion Foundations.ca Personal Fittings • Petite to Plus 1385 ELLIS ST. KELOWNA BC 250.763.1473 233 COLUMBIA AVE. CASTLEGAR 250.365.1474

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 19

If you’re a woman over a certain age, you’ve probably found yourself standing in front of the bathroom mirror, pulling up your eyebrows or jowls, stretching back the skin under your chin looking for that definition you once had.

NON SURGICAL FACELIFTS How do skin tightening technologies work? But there’s a new kid on the block. It’s called Ultherapy. It’s the first and only energy-based device to receive FDA

We lose facial fat, collagen and elastin as we get older, and that often means our eyebrows fall, jowls appear while jawlines disappear. The skin under the chin and over the neck becomes more lax and lines develop on the chest. What to do? Good quality skin care help to some extent, when supplemented by neuromodulators and fillers, (i.e. Botox, Dysport or Xeomin). But to achieve maximum non-invasive lifting with natural looking results, we’ve got to step it up a notch. We need an energy device. Energy devices include any number of skin tightening technologies, including radiofrequency devices (eg. Thermage, Accent RF), lasers, and deep-tissue ultrasound. They all use heat to trigger the development of new collagen which helps firm, tighten, tone or lift the skin. Though lasers are able to produce temperatures within the skin between 60 – 100 degrees Celsius, their penetration depth is very superficial. Scientific study has found that temperatures below 60 degrees C have minimal effects on collagen structure and so really don’t have significant effects on new collagen formation. Radiofrequency devices can go deeper, up to 3mm, but the temperature they achieve is usually suboptimal - between 38 – 50 degrees – and that just doesn’t cut it!

DR. MANDY WONG

Restore Vein & Skin Centre 20 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

clearance for non-invasively lifting the neck, chin and brow. It also specifically improves wrinkles on the chest. Utilizing focused ultrasound, Ultherapy is the only device that can penetrate to 4.5 mm, the depth employed during surgical facelifts. It generates heat between 60 – 70 degrees Celcius at this depth to effect collagen renewal. These facts speak to Ultherapy’s effectiveness and why it has been chosen “Best In-Office Treatment” by New Beauty. Ultherapy has received consistently high ratings on RealSelf, a consumer review website focussed on cosmetic treatments and procedures. Restore Vein & Skin Centre incorporated Ultherapy because results are achieved in one treatment lasting 30 – 90 minutes as opposed to multiple times with other non-invasive devices. There is no patient downtime, is skin color independent and does not involve pre- or post-treatment skin care.

Ultherapy is backed by 16 + years of extensive research and clinical experience. Dr. Wong spoke directly with many medical directors of the top cosmetic clinics in Canada who employ Ultherapy to ensure this device is efficacious. Ultherapy is one of the only devices patients come into the office asking specifically for by name. Ultherapy is most suited for those patients who would like to defer, or are not interested, in a surgical face-lift procedure and desire a high degree of safety and efficacy. It is also a great treatment for those in their 30s to 40s as a preventative measure. Dr. Mandy Wong obtained her degree as an MD in 1991. For the last 15 years, her practice has focussed on the treatment of varicose veins and skin concerns. Dr. Wong has been recognized as one of the top cosmetic physicians in the country.

BREAKFAST IN A CUP 12 breakfast tarts

Breakfast WHOLE GRAINS FOR BREAKFAST LINKED WITH HIGHER TEST SCORES IN ELEMENTARY STUDENTS Whole grains are a classic centerpiece to the morning meal for many families, but students may especially benefit from this practice. Researchers have found that while breakfast eaters scored significantly higher in all test areas, what the students ate made a big difference. Greater servings of whole grains were significantly related to higher scores in reading comprehension and fluency and math, while fruit juice was significantly correlated with lower math and reading comprehension and fluency scores.

INGREDIENTS 3 cups cooked short grain brown rice 1 1/4 cups shredded Cheddar 4 eggs 1 4-ounce can diced green chiles 1 2-ounce jar diced pimientos, drained 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/3 cup milk 1/2 to 1 teaspoon paprika for garnish INSTRUCTIONS Crust 1. Combine brown rice, 3/4 cup cheese, and 2 eggs (slightly beaten) in large bowl. 2. Press mixture equally into bottoms and sides of 12 greased muffin cups. 3. Bake at 400°F for 5 to 8 minutes, or until lightly browned. Filling 1. Blend chiles, pimientos, cumin, salt, pepper, milk, and remaining 1/2 cup cheese and 2 eggs in small bowl; pour equally into cups. Sprinkle with paprika. 2. Return to oven; bake 15 to 20 minutes, or until set.

Lunch

SOUTHWESTERN STYLE KAMUT CHILI A SAVORY COMBINATION OF GRAIN, HOMINY, TOMATOES AND SPICES TOPPED WITH CILANTRO, CHEDDAR, SOUR CREAM AND LIME.

M A G A Z I N E | WINTER 2015

C L E V E R / C L A S S Y / C O N F I D E N T

SPRIN

G 2016

C L E V E R | C L A S S Y | C O N F I D E N T

Enter to Win!

THE

BIG

REVEAL ! Make-ove r contest

BALLET KELOWNA

Raising theBarre

CONVERS ATION WITH

Premier Christy Cla rk

Ways to

HAPPget Y

in the Okanaga n!

HOM DECOE R

F E A T U R E

Refresh Restore Renew

$4.95 PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NUMBER: 41188516 PRINT ISSN: 2291-8353 ONLINE ISSN: 2291-8361

SPRING FAS HION

$4.95 A NPUBLICA . TIONS C O MAIL O

AGREEMENT NUMBER: 4118851 6 PRINT ISSN: 2291-8353 ONLINE ISSN:

2291-8361

photos O

NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! HAVE OKANAGAN WOMAN DELIVERED RIGHTTOYOUR DOOR ONE YEAR $15.75 (INC GST) TWO YEARS $24.15 (INC GST)

SUBSCRIBE NOW! NAME ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ADDRESS ________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ EMAIL _____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

INGREDIENTS 2 cups Kamut 6 cups water 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 cup chopped onion 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon salt free chili powder 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 3 1/2 cups reduced sodium organic vegetable broth (such as Swanson’s) 1 (15.5 ounce) can white or yellow hominy, drained and rinsed 1 (14.5) ounce can No-Salt-Added crushed tomatoes, undrained 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper Shredded cheddar cheese Chopped fresh cilantro Sour Cream Lime wedges

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Combine Kamut and 6 cups water in a large saucepan over mediumhigh heat. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until tender. Remove from heat, drain well and set aside. 2. Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté 3 minutes or until tender. Add garlic, chili powder and cumin; sauté 30 seconds. Add reserved Kamut; cook 30 seconds, stirring frequently. 3. Stir in broth, hominy, tomatoes, oregano, salt, black and red peppers. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, cover and simmer 20 minutes. Divide among bowls and serve warm, garnished with cheese, cilantro, sour cream and lime wedges as desired.

PHONE ___________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

Please make your cheque payable to Okanagan Woman and mail along with this subscription form to: Okanagan Woman Magazine, Suite 113 – 3335 Richter St. Kelowna V1W 3Y1 or call the office to pay by credit card

1-877-667-8450

8 one cup servings OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 21

NON SURGICAL FACELIFTS How do skin tightening technologies work? But there’s a new kid on the block. It’s called Ultherapy. It’s the first and only energy-based device to receive FDA

DR. MANDY WONG

Restore Vein & Skin Centre 20 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

BREAKFAST IN A CUP 12 breakfast tarts

Lunch

SOUTHWESTERN STYLE KAMUT CHILI A SAVORY COMBINATION OF GRAIN, HOMINY, TOMATOES AND SPICES TOPPED WITH CILANTRO, CHEDDAR, SOUR CREAM AND LIME.

M A G A Z I N E | WINTER 2015

C L E V E R / C L A S S Y / C O N F I D E N T

SPRIN

G 2016

C L E V E R | C L A S S Y | C O N F I D E N T

Enter to Win!

THE

BIG

REVEAL ! Make-ove r contest

BALLET KELOWNA

Raising theBarre

CONVERS ATION WITH

Premier Christy Cla rk

Ways to

HAPPget Y

in the Okanaga n!

HOM DECOE R

F E A T U R E

Refresh Restore Renew

$4.95 PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NUMBER: 41188516 PRINT ISSN: 2291-8353 ONLINE ISSN: 2291-8361

SPRING FAS HION

$4.95 A NPUBLICA . TIONS C O MAIL O

AGREEMENT NUMBER: 4118851 6 PRINT ISSN: 2291-8353 ONLINE ISSN:

2291-8361

photos O

NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! HAVE OKANAGAN WOMAN DELIVERED RIGHTTOYOUR DOOR ONE YEAR $15.75 (INC GST) TWO YEARS $24.15 (INC GST)

PHONE ___________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

1-877-667-8450

8 one cup servings OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 21

POWER OF THE PURSE

“

Tapping into womens’ love of handbags and all things blingy, the Miracle Bucket Society decided to build on its philanthropic service by holding a live designer handbag and themed purse auction.

A GALA EVENT

CALL IT PASSION, FASHION OR FETISH, WOMEN LOVE THEIR PURSES. Every woman has one – and probably several. We need purses; where else would we stash our necessities like lip balm, hairbrush and the kitchen sink? $40/person $350/Reserved Table of 8

the

Miracle Bucket Society Invites you to attend Designer & Theme Purse Auction

Designer Purses and Unique Get Away Experiences Live Auction

Thursday, June 2, 2016 at the Vernon Prestige Hotel

Reserved tables for 8 available for $350 or individual tickets $40 each Tickets go on sale April 1

www.themiraclebucketsociety.com Tickets available by contacting Event Coordinator Suzanne Bell by phone 250.550.4475 or email suzannebell@telus.net

22 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

Like clothing, handbags are an expression of a woman’s status, fashion savvy and earning power. Maybe we can’t afford a Louis Vuitton, but that doesn’t mean we don’t want one. Well, ladies, here’s your chance to own a designer handbag and do something wonderful for your community. Tapping into womens’ love of handbags and all things blingy, the Miracle Bucket Society decided to build on its philanthropic service by holding a live designer handbag themed purse auction. The first Power of the Purse, held last June at Vernon Prestige Hotel was a huge success, with over 170 attendees, raising $20,000 in one evening. This year’s event is on track to be another stupendous evening with help from auctioneer Don Raffan (Valley Auction) and MC Jason Armstrong (KISS FM). The formal and fun evening will begin with a wine reception and live musical entertainment, giving guests a chance to check out the silent auction items and the fabulous live auction items, including a signed Sidney Crosby jersey! Expect to see high end silent and live auction items like adventure packages. Scrumptious hors d’oeuvres will be served – but the main entrée is the designer handbags, many stuffed with added value goodies supplied by the generous sponsors. Last year, the Power of the Purse event raised just over $20,000; the Miracle Bucket Society was able to donate gift cards to the Vernon Transition House, Canadian Mental Health and Interior Health Authority Social Workers based in Vernon who passed the gifts on to area families.

SINCE INCEPTION, THE MIRACLE BUCKET SOCIETY HAS HELPED 91 FAMILIES IN OUR COMMUNITY.

HOW THE MIRACLE BUCKET SOCIETY WORKS

Through selected local registered charities and organizations, defined professionals submit requests to the Miracle Bucket society for families experiencing financial difficulty due to socioeconomic and/or health challenges. The Miracle bucket society receives requests through:

•

• •

Interior Health Authority (Hospital and Community): ER, Pediatric, Palliative Care and Mental health Units/ Programs Vernon Women’s Transition House Canadian Mental Health (Vernon office)

MC JASON ARMSTRONG AT THE KISS FM TABLE. PHOTO BY ERNIE SOLLID

What makes the Miracle Bucket Society unique is that anonymous gifts are given in the form of specific gift cards. Recipients receive a gift card with a hand written card that relays

“We believe in you!”

Miracle gift funds are given for direct services. Some examples of how families are supported through anonymous Miracle Bucket gifts are Gift cards for: • Grocery stores • Bedding and Household supplies for women/men and children who have been relocated due to domestic violence • Clothing A family is defined as a mother/ or father and at least one child living in the same house. These families are identified from the North Okanagan region. Since inception, the Miracle Bucket Society has helped 91 families in our community and raised over $40,000. A large part of this success was the first “POWER OF THE PURSE” - Designer Handbag and “Themed” purse LIVE Auction, held in June 2015 at the top quality Vernon Prestige Hotel. Keep your eyes on their website for updates. www.themiraclebucketsociety.com

Get your tickets early! Last year’s event sold fast! OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 23

POWER OF THE PURSE

“

Tapping into womens’ love of handbags and all things blingy, the Miracle Bucket Society decided to build on its philanthropic service by holding a live designer handbag and themed purse auction.

A GALA EVENT

the

Miracle Bucket Society Invites you to attend Designer & Theme Purse Auction

Designer Purses and Unique Get Away Experiences Live Auction

Thursday, June 2, 2016 at the Vernon Prestige Hotel

Reserved tables for 8 available for $350 or individual tickets $40 each Tickets go on sale April 1

www.themiraclebucketsociety.com Tickets available by contacting Event Coordinator Suzanne Bell by phone 250.550.4475 or email suzannebell@telus.net

22 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

SINCE INCEPTION, THE MIRACLE BUCKET SOCIETY HAS HELPED 91 FAMILIES IN OUR COMMUNITY.

HOW THE MIRACLE BUCKET SOCIETY WORKS

•

• •

Interior Health Authority (Hospital and Community): ER, Pediatric, Palliative Care and Mental health Units/ Programs Vernon Women’s Transition House Canadian Mental Health (Vernon office)

MC JASON ARMSTRONG AT THE KISS FM TABLE. PHOTO BY ERNIE SOLLID

What makes the Miracle Bucket Society unique is that anonymous gifts are given in the form of specific gift cards. Recipients receive a gift card with a hand written card that relays

“We believe in you!”

Get your tickets early! Last year’s event sold fast! OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 23

PHOTOS Here at Okanagan Woman, we are often asked how we come up with our fashion photos. The answer is: we don’t; you do.

Each outstanding image comes from an Okanagan photographer and a team of talented artists who envision the image – and make it happen.

We asked area photographers to envision a photo shoot with the theme:

Repurpose -Vintage - Upcycle Each photographer took those three words and conceptualized what that might look like: a vintage wedding dress, an antique hat, curtains repurposed into a floral dress, 60s make up, an eyelet lace skirt tinted with tea bag to give an aged look. Each team had a different vision. Art is, after all, open to interpretation. We congratulate these artists for their thoughtful consideration of our theme and their ability to bring their vision to fruition!

For the SUMMER 2016,

Discover an oasis of comfort & style in the heart of Downtown Penticton! We welcome you to stop by and enjoy a relaxing browse through our intriguing collection of designer clothing, beautiful jewelry & accessories, unique footwear & lifestyle products designed to complete your day! Open 7 days a week ~ Sizes XS – XXL

and too!

DOWNTOWN PENTICTON 370 Main Street 250.490.4899 fashion@threewishesclothing.com | threewishesclothing.com facebook.com/threewishesclothing

24 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

we are looking for your most creative fashion photo submissions. Sure, we’re looking for technical quality, clarity and composition, but even more, we are looking for the unexpected – the creative – the WOW factor.

So, get your creative juices flowing! The criteria is simple: At least one of the team members – the model, hair and make-up artist, photographer – must live here in the Okanagan! Keep your eye on our Facebook Page for inspiration for the Summer 2016 issue. And visit us online for prize information and how to submit photos for the upcoming summer issue. THE SUBMISSION DEADLINE IS APRIL 25, 2016. PHOTOS CAN BE SUBMITTED TO EDITOR@ OKANAGANWOMAN.COM

MODEL: RONA MAHAL HAIR: INSPIRADO DESIGNS MAKEUP: AMANA BEAUTY WARDROBE: LILLIAN WILD BRIDAL DECOR: MOSAIC PARTY AND EVENT DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHER: ALISHA KHAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Submit your

PHOTOS Here at Okanagan Woman, we are often asked how we come up with our fashion photos. The answer is: we don’t; you do.

Each outstanding image comes from an Okanagan photographer and a team of talented artists who envision the image – and make it happen.

We asked area photographers to envision a photo shoot with the theme:

For the SUMMER 2016,

and too!

DOWNTOWN PENTICTON 370 Main Street 250.490.4899 fashion@threewishesclothing.com | threewishesclothing.com facebook.com/threewishesclothing

24 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

MODEL: RONA MAHAL HAIR: INSPIRADO DESIGNS MAKEUP: AMANA BEAUTY WARDROBE: LILLIAN WILD BRIDAL DECOR: MOSAIC PARTY AND EVENT DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHER: ALISHA KHAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Submit your

MODEL: KATHERINE MCKINNON MAKE-UP ARTIST: TOBY WESENBERG CLOTHING DESIGNER: ANISSA BLUMHAGAN PHOTOGRAPHER: COUTURE ALLURE PHOTOGRAPHY-JULIE CHAREST MODEL: MACKENNA LENARCIC, DEJAVU MODEL MANAGEMENT HAIR: DARCIE JILLIAN AT ANTIDOTE HAIR MAKE-UP: RANDI TOTH CLOTHING: UPCYCLED SWAG, DEBBIE SHARPE ACCESSORIES: GEORGIE GIRL STYLING: NATURAL TOUCH EVENT AND WEDDING PLANNING PHOTOGRAPHER: MICHELLE BEHR SECOND SHOOTER: RYAN MOWAT

MODEL: LAUREN SCHELL - DEJAVU MODEL MANAGEMENT MODEL: ANA MOLDOVAN MODEL: VICTORIA ULRICH- CHILDS DRESS MODEL: KATHERINE MCKINNON MAKE-UP ARTIST: TOBY WESENBERG CLOTHING DESIGNER: ANISSA BLUMHAGAN PHOTOGRAPHER: COUTURE ALLURE PHOTOGRAPHY-JULIE CHAREST

MODEL: LAUREN SCHELL - DEJAVU MODEL MANAGEMENT MAKE-UP ARTIST: TOBY WESENBERG CLOTHING DESIGNER: ANISSA BLUMHAGAN PHOTOGRAPHER: COUTURE ALLURE PHOTOGRAPHY-JULIE CHAREST

MODEL: AMBERLEE ERDMANN HAIR: CASSIDY MCDERMOTT / HEIRESS SALON MAKEUP: TANIA VASSILAKAKI DRESS AND JEWELRY: KERRY YOUNIE / WINDOW DRESSINGS PHOTOGRAPHER: STEPHANIE SEATON / UNLIMITED VISION WWW.UNLIMITEDVISION.COM MODEL: SUNRAY SUZIE HTTP://WWW.SUNRAYSUZIE.COM MAKE-UP ARTIST: TOBY WESENBERG WWW.TOBYWESENBERG.COM PHOTOGRAPHER: LICHON PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.LICHONPHOTOGRAPHY.COM HTTPS://WWW.FLICKR.COM/PHOTOS/LICHON FLORAL DESIGN AND SET DESIGN: BLUE SAGE FARM - FLORAL DESIGN WWW.BLUESAGEFARM.CA

LOL | LADIES ON LITERATURE

A KELOWNA BOOK CLUB WITH A DIFFERENCE BY: SHANNON LINDEN

Join me here, in Okanagan Woman, for regular reviews from our selections. Interested in what we’re sipping and savoring? Visit me online @shannonlinden.ca for recipes and more.

Ginger-Pear Oat Smoothie

ALL THE LIGHT WE CANNOT SEE

BUMP UP THE NUTRITION IN YOUR SMOOTHIE

Winner of the Pulitzer Prize and the Goodreads choice for historical fiction 2014, Laurie chose this book and we loved it. Moving back and forth through time, it’s told in the alternating voices of MarieLaure, a blind French girl forced to flee Paris with her father when the Nazis invade, and Werner, an orphaned German boy with the unique gift of building and repairing radios. Father and daughter find shelter in the walled citadel of Saint-Malo, but they carry with them a precious jewel that will make them Nazi targets; Werner’s talents land him at a brutal academy for Hitler Youth then into the army to track the resistance, eventually taking him to Saint-Malo. Brilliant, inquisitive, and well loved by what little family they have, the horror of war slowly saps these children’s innocence while it steals their loved ones, and smothers their hopeful futures. Yet when their worlds almost magically collide, we see, as the author himself puts it, “The ways in which people, against all odds, try to be kind to one another.” This book is hauntingly beautiful; full of ghosts who pass through walls and rise up through demolished floorboards, fly over abandoned buildings and bombed out cobble stone streets. Deeply moving and achingly gorgeous, it is impossible to read this book unaffected. Like many novels set in WW II, it boldly relays the anguish and loss war brings—the bodies savagely destroyed. Yet it also offers glimmers of hope and humanity—souls that remain intact. Perhaps that’s why some critics call it uplifting. There is always hope; there is light even in Marie Laude’s darkened world. But oh, the sadness! It has been a long time

and add a delightful creaminess – with the surprise addition of oatmeal! INGREDIENTS 1 cup skim milk or plain non-fat yogurt 1 small ripe pear, cored, skin on ½ banana ½ cup oatmeal ½ teaspoon minced fresh ginger 1 tablespoon flax oil, optional 4 ice cubes

INSTRUCTIONS Puree all ingredients in a blender until smooth and creamy, about five to ten minutes to ensure the ginger is well blended. makes: 2 – 8 oz servings RECIPE COURTESY THE QUAKER OATS COMPANY

32 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

Fourteen friends, the Ladies on Literature meet monthly to share fruits of our valley, delights from our kitchens, and thoughts on the books we read.

BY ANTHONY DOERR

PLAYING WITH FIRE BY THEO FLEURY (WITH KIRSTIE MCLELLAN) Every season someone does the LOL a favor by picking a non-fiction book. For those who prefer fiction, the selection is sometimes met with wrinkled brows—consternation for being called beyond our comfort zones. This time Cara really had us reaching. Sure we love hockey. But reading about it—for a month? If you pick up this book get ready to be immersed in that all-Canadian sport. The book is a brutally honest, raggedly raw look at one of hockey’s greatest—Theoren Wallace (Theo) Fleury—who grew up desperately poor in Russell Manitoba with an alcoholic father and a mother who battled drug addiction. Hockey becomes his salvation when at just five years old he dons rusty skates and takes a broken stick to that Canadian classic—the neighborhood outdoor rink—laces up and glides across the ice like he’s been doing it all his life. A prodigy of sorts, Fleury, of Metis heritage, is small for his age, but that only further fuels his fire to make the NHL. It also turns him into a defensive, overly aggressive, self-described “bully”. Lacking money and a stable home, his community (the Peltz family in particular) steps up to care for him and his brothers, bringing them food, clothes, and even pitching in for Fleury’s hockey expenses. Fleury credits his caring community for saving him many times but when they raise the money to

ONE HAS TO APPRECIATE FLEURY’S FIGHT BACK TO

Hockey and the WHL to the NHL. There’s a lot of hockey here. Even for a fan. One of the criticisms of the book REGAIN HIS is lack of focus with painstaking detail DIGNITY, FIND TRUE of too many games, random players LOVE AND MAKE few people would know, and scathing PEACE WITH HIS critiques of teammates many readers TRAGIC PAST. will recognize. Indeed, some readers – SHANNON LINDEN suggest Fleury’s mountain sized ego (he regularly refers to himself as “an elite athlete”) was a turn off and deterred from the bigger issue: how abuse destroys lives. Personally I found the book tedious. While I admire Fleury’s fight back to health (he doesn’t pull any punches about his booze, cocaine and sex addictions) and his determination to make amends with the people he loves, the onerous descriptions of the game got to me. I do think he’s incredibly brave and I believe if it weren’t for his self-assurance he’d never have made it in hockey and never have survived his ordeal. I admire his candor and respect his goal of shedding light on the devastation that occurs when trusted adults take advantage of neglected and vulnerable youths, capitalizing on their talents and dreams. send him to hockey school in Brandon, his life is One has to appreciate Fleury’s fight back to regain set on a course of devastation. There he meets scout his dignity, find true love and make peace with his and coach, Graham James, who takes Fleury (and tragic past. With a Stanley Cup, Canada Cup and other NHL prospects) under his wing—and into his Olympic gold medal, he is a highly decorated athlete bedroom. but as he admits, his demons will always raise their The ongoing sexual abuse these boys suffer, far ugly heads in a struggle to reign supreme. from their families and desperate for the nod James can give them to the Big League, is hard to read. The book follows Fleury’s rise through Junior

3/5 Cheers!

1st annual

‘DIVAS and DIAMONDS’ NIGHT Ladies only fundraising event MC’d by Maxine DeHart

since I read a novel that moved me to tears. Warning: take out the tissue. But do take out this book. We should all have some sense of the staggering sacrifices those who fought and those who tried to go about their ordinary lives, made. The author brilliantly and poetically portrays how survivors were forever altered so that when the war ended, they carved out new lives in a new alternative universe where warm chocolate croissants and hot coffee; frivolity and laughter; sunshine and birds singing are the simple joys those of us who grew up in peace take for granted. Anthony Doerr spent a decade writing this book but surely it is a lifetime achievement and a lasting gift for generations to come.

APRIL 30, 2016 Westbank Lions Community Hall 2466 Main Street,West Kelowna

All proceeds to the Kelowna General Hospital Foundation The evening includes a sumptuous meal catered by the Beach Avenue Café and Tapas Bar, libations from the Hatch Winery, outstanding entertainment and a reverse draw. Every tenth diva wins a prize, and the ﬁnal winner will receive a beautiful diamond ring supplied by JK Schmidt’s Jewellers.

Tickets: $85 per diva. Order your ticket by calling Lynne Herrin, 250 767 6225 or Shelley Sweeney, 250 212 2025, or by email, shelleysweeney@shaw.ca or online at www.peachlandlions.com/events @peachland_lions PeachlandLionsDivasandDiamonds

5/5 Cheers! OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 33

LOL | LADIES ON LITERATURE

A KELOWNA BOOK CLUB WITH A DIFFERENCE BY: SHANNON LINDEN

Join me here, in Okanagan Woman, for regular reviews from our selections. Interested in what we’re sipping and savoring? Visit me online @shannonlinden.ca for recipes and more.

Ginger-Pear Oat Smoothie

ALL THE LIGHT WE CANNOT SEE

BUMP UP THE NUTRITION IN YOUR SMOOTHIE

32 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

Fourteen friends, the Ladies on Literature meet monthly to share fruits of our valley, delights from our kitchens, and thoughts on the books we read.

BY ANTHONY DOERR

ONE HAS TO APPRECIATE FLEURY’S FIGHT BACK TO

3/5 Cheers!

1st annual

‘DIVAS and DIAMONDS’ NIGHT Ladies only fundraising event MC’d by Maxine DeHart

APRIL 30, 2016 Westbank Lions Community Hall 2466 Main Street,West Kelowna

5/5 Cheers! OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 33

Is Your Dad

10/10?

#288, 1835 Gordon Dr. Kelowna, BC PH: 236.420.2888 Toll Free: 1.844.357.2888

REFRESH YOUR TASTEBUDS AND

RENEW YOUR ENERGY WITH ANCIENT WHOLE

GRAINS

ENTER TO WIN

Daughters & DADS CONTEST Tell us what’s so special about your Okanagan Dad and you could win

10/10 amazing gift packages! In 150 words or less, tell us why your Dad is Okanagans best! Email your information; including your name, your Dad’s name, phone number and mailing address to Publisher@okanaganwoman.com along with a current photo of Daughter & Dad

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to make your Dad #1 in the Okanagan Contest open to daughters only

CONTEST CLOSES MIDNIGHT APRIL 25TH 2016 Winners will be notiﬁed by April 30th Look for more details, contest rules and updates on our facebook and website OKANAGANWOMAN.COM

34 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

Supper

PAELLA IS USUALLY MADE WITH WHITE RICE, BUT BY REPLACING THE WHITE WITH BROWN RICE, YOU GET GREAT TEXTURE AND A BOOST OF NUTRITION. This Spanish-inspired one-pot supper has chicken, chorizo and shrimp, but the scene-stealer in this recipe is the saffron. Its tantalizing scent and warm flavor lend a richness to the dish that makes it unforgettable.

PAELLA WITH CHICKEN, CHORIZO AND SHRIMP 4 servings

INGREDIENTS 1 teaspoon oregano 1 tablespoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1/4 cup olive oil 1/2 lb. chorizo sausage, sliced 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 large onion, diced 1 (16-ounce) can stewed tomatoes, drained (juice reserved) 3/4 cup brown rice 1 teaspoon saffron threads 3 1/2 cups warm water 4 jumbo shrimp, peeled, leaving tails on 1/2 cup sweet peas, frozen and thawed 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Restore Vein and Skin Centre INSTRUCTIONS 1. Mix oregano, paprika, salt and pepper in a medium-sized glass bowl. Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces and add to the bowl of seasonings. Stir to coat and let marinate for 15 minutes. 2. Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken in the oil, turning to brown on all sides. Add the chorizo and continue to cook until the oil is a vibrant red color. Remove the chicken and chorizo with a slotted spoon to a cutting board to rest. 3. Return the pan to the stove and lower the heat to medium. Saute the garlic and onion until translucent, 3- 5 minutes. 4. Add tomatoes, breaking them up with a spoon. Cook until soft, seasoning with salt and pepper. 5. Fold in the rice, stirring to coat the grains. Stir the saffron into the rice. Pour in the water and reserved tomato juice, stirring gently just to be sure everything is blended. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes and give it a gentle stir once or twice during cooking. 6. Add shrimp, tucking them into the rice. Let simmer again, cooking until pink, about 10 minutes. 7. While the shrimp is cooking, shred reserved chicken with a fork. Add the shredded chicken and chorizo to pan, stirring again, gently. Cook until rice is tender, another 5 -10 minutes. 8. Scatter the peas on top and continue to cook for 5 more minutes, until the paella is fluffy and moist. 9. Take off the heat, top with parsley and serve.

Dr. Mandy Wong

The vein and skin treatment industry has seen a number of advances in recent years. State of the art technologies and treatments are now available to treat a full array of health issues. Restore Vein and Skin Centre has built a new facility focused on treating skin and vein health using an evidence based approach to treatment. Restore’s primary focus is to treat patients with the highest clinical standards, with the newest technology and innovative procedures.! ! ! Springtime is upon us, and here at Restore we have several treatments that we recommend for patients to get summer ready! As they say, summer bodies are made in the winter! Treatments we would recommend for springtime are Coolsculpting® PLUS, Halo™and BBL (for resurfacing and skin rejuvenation), and sclerotherapy for unsightly veins.!

Coolsculpting® PLUS allows you to sit back and relax while targeted fat is frozen away. We also have CoolMini™ that treats double chins. Restore Vein and Skin Centre is the ﬁrst clinic in the Okanagan Valley to implement two operating systems which allows for patients to cut their treatment time in half! Treatments are followed up with a ZWAVE Zimmer to precipitate results and increase the total fat loss. So sit back and relax, check your emails, watch a movie, or even take a nap while our experienced technicians treat your targeted areas! You can expect to see optimal results in three months time.

Sclerotherapy

Fractional laser resurfacing is widely recognized for its revolutionary impact on skin rejuvenation. Traditionally, opting for a more comfortable treatment and faster recovery meant compromised outcomes. With Halo™, patients can expect a truly customized laser treatment that will deliver the superior wrinkle-smoothing, pigmentation-fading and textureimproving results of an ablative laser, with the recovery speed and comfort that are the cornerstones of non-ablative fractional laser resurfacing. Halo™ offers an altogether new and unique laser resurfacing experience for the face, body, scarring and stretch marks.!

BBL (BroadBand Light) is a skin rejuvenation process that uses wavelengths of light to correct a myriad of skin conditions including acne, ﬁne lines, rosacea, brown spots and skin laxity. We recommend a series of four treatments, spaced approximately 4 weeks apart for optimal results.!

Sclerotherapy treatment plans aim to close as many diseased veins as possible at the time of presentation. If your legs feel constantly tired, or you’re tired of covering them up to hide visible veins, Restore Vein and Skin Centre invites you to book a sclerotherapy consultation. Medically necessary treatments are covered by MSP. Revived and rejuvenated legs await you!!

Coolsculpting®

To learn more about our clinic go to www.kelownarestore.com!

Broad Band Light (BBL) OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 35

Is Your Dad

10/10?

#288, 1835 Gordon Dr. Kelowna, BC PH: 236.420.2888 Toll Free: 1.844.357.2888

REFRESH YOUR TASTEBUDS AND

RENEW YOUR ENERGY WITH ANCIENT WHOLE

GRAINS

ENTER TO WIN

Daughters & DADS CONTEST Tell us what’s so special about your Okanagan Dad and you could win

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to make your Dad #1 in the Okanagan Contest open to daughters only

CONTEST CLOSES MIDNIGHT APRIL 25TH 2016 Winners will be notiﬁed by April 30th Look for more details, contest rules and updates on our facebook and website OKANAGANWOMAN.COM

34 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

Supper

PAELLA WITH CHICKEN, CHORIZO AND SHRIMP 4 servings

Dr. Mandy Wong

Sclerotherapy

Coolsculpting®

To learn more about our clinic go to www.kelownarestore.com!

Broad Band Light (BBL) OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 35

OUT OF THE BLUE: Perinatal Mood Disorders darkened this Okanagan Woman’s days until she got help. Now Tascheleia Marangoni helps other Canadian mothers see the light.

CELEBRITIES Who Have Suffered

“

All women, regardless of race, culture, or social status are vulnerable to perinatal mood disorders — even seemingly flawless celebrities. Here’s a list of some names in Hollywood who have disclosed their struggles, helping to dispel the negative stigma surrounding mental health issues.

Brooke Shields

“It is not until you become a mother that your judgment slowly turns to compassion and understanding.”

BY SHANNON LINDEN

– ERMA BOMBECK, HUMOR WRITER

“

Motherhood:

The most exhausting, emotional, rewarding and life-enhancing journey a woman can take.” – CHARLOTTE PEARSON, AUTHOR

Convinced she was having a boy, when Tascheleia Marangoni gave birth to her first child in 1997, she was surprised, but thrilled. Baby Isabella’s arrival was the first of many unexpected events that would rock the young mother’s world. Newly married and just 22-years old, she had no idea what was involved in raising an infant. Anyone can read about it—and Marangoni did her homework—but going through the birthing process and bringing up baby is the stuff of real life and Marangoni had a real hard time. “My heart leapt with every little cry Bella made and right from the beginning, without realizing it, I was worrying all the time about everything.” Marangoni vividly recalls how guilty she felt exposing her helpless baby to the cold, cruel world on the family’s first outing. When overprotection led to obsessive thoughts about Isabella’s wellbeing and discomfort with others caring for the baby, Marangoni sought reassurance. “I tried to talk to my mom about it,” she says, “but she was upset I’d married young and had a baby…she didn’t want to be referred to as Grandma, so her position was very clear.” Her husband’s family believed problems were private matters, leaving Marangoni feeling further abandoned and completely terrified as her obsessive compulsive behaviors spiraled. “I remember one day looking down at my hands and realizing they were so red and covered in a million, little tiny cuts from washing them so constantly. Running through my head was, out damn spot.”

While some women who struggle with perinatal mood disorders (PMD’s) reject their babies, thankfully Marangoni drew closer to hers. “The one light in all of this was my beautiful baby; she saved me. She gave me a reason everyday to try and be the best version of myself no matter how much of a struggle it was.” Initially even her husband was defensive, suggesting she was attention-seeking and needed to get used to her new role as mother. “The further you get down, the harder it is to reach out and to recover,” she says, “especially when your support network doesn’t understand what you’re going through.” When getting dressed, eating, and leaving the house seemed insurmountable, she recognized she was suffering from depression and sought professional help. Marangoni attended a support group at the Royal Alexandra Hospital (where she gave birth) and saw a psychiatrist who prescribed antidepressants. When adverse reactions to the meds left Marangoni suicidal, she turned to the Edmonton Family Center, which offers counseling and other innovative services. Through therapy she began to pick up the pieces—and reach out to others in need.

36 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

PMDA Is Born

Having walked a dark road, Marangoni is intimately familiar with excruciating pain, but she’s also proof healing light can illuminate the path for struggling mothers. Cognitive Behavior Therapy, the right medications, and a loving support system (her husband became a wonderful partner) helped her to heal. In 2010 she teamed up with a psychiatrist friend, running a one-year test project for a support group designed to provide awareness and education for struggling individuals and families. Perinatal Mood Disorder Awareness Project (PMDA) grew into a successful non-profit organization, eventually expanding into BC and Saskatchewan. PMDA offers a large resource website (www. ppda.ca) connecting sufferers with service providers, as well as online connections (including chat forums), especially important for women living in rural communities. Relocated to the Okanagan, Marangoni works in partnership with the Kelowna Mental Health Association and continues to run PMDA. In 2012 she was the recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for her work.

Recognizing Perinatal Mood Disorders

Having a baby is a miraculous experience but it’s also an emotionally charged time in a woman’s life. Most feel vulnerable, overwhelmed, and slightly anxious but 10 to 20 % will develop PMD during pregnancy and up to one year after delivery. Sleep deprivation, perceived loss of attractiveness, and sudden loss of independence and identity can contribute to the development of disorders. If a woman has a history of depression, bipolar disease, recent stressful events, an infant with health problems, a weak support system, financial issues, or an unwanted pregnancy, she is at greater risk.

Baby Blues

Brought on by a sudden drop in hormones after giving birth combined with lack of sleep and overwhelming emotion, 70 to 80 % of women develop the baby blues within the first few weeks of delivery. Marked by crying, irritability, anxiety and sleep issues, symptoms generally ease within a couple of weeks.

Post-Partum Depression

Different from the baby blues, post-partum depression occurs in about 10 % of births. Symptoms are more severe, last longer than two weeks, and can have significant impact on families. Sadness, crying, depression, loss of interest in usual activities, guilt, worthlessness or incompetence, fatigue, changes in appetite, sleep disturbance, excessive worry about their infant and suicidal thoughts can afflict sufferers.

Postpartum Psychosis

This is a very rare condition that typically develops within the first week after delivery. Symptoms include disorientation, obsessive thoughts about the baby, hallucinations and delusions, paranoia and attempts to harm self or the infant. This condition requires immediate treatment as it can be life threatening. Ten years after Isabella’s birth, Marangoni was ready for another child. Older, wiser, and well prepared, she welcomed a son—and celebrated when the perinatal period passed without issues. When her third child— another daughter—came along, Marangoni developed antepartum and postpartum depression and anxiety. Experience combined with local resources, therapy, education and prayer, all helped pull her through. Loving support, medication, regular exercise, a healthy diet including extra vitamin B and magnesium, and letting go of unrealistic expectations, keeps Marangoni going strong. She admits compulsive thoughts linger in the darkest corners of her mind, but she has learned how to let the light in, largely by helping others— most of all through devotion to her family. “I have been rewarded with three beautiful children whom I love so much and would not trade for anything,” she says. “A little sacrifice is worth this happiness for sure.” For more information, visit Marangoni’s site: www.ppda.ca. Tap into a great local resource, the Canadian Mental Health Association Kelowna: cmhakelowna.com

Loving support, medication, regular exercise, a healthy diet including extra vitamin B and magnesium, and letting go of unrealistic expectations, keeps Marangoni going strong.

Perinatal Anxiety Disorders

Panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder can occur, sometimes coinciding with depression. Symptoms might include panic attacks, hyperventilation, excessive worry, obsessive-compulsive activities, restless sleep and repeated thoughts of bad things happening to the baby.

The actress’s experience was the stuff of tabloid fodder in 2005 when she fought back against actor, Tom Cruise, who was critical of her use of antidepressants after the birth of her first daughter, Rowan. Shields wrote about her journey (including suicidal inclinations) in her book, Down Came the Rain: My Journey Through Postpartum Depression.

Courteney Cox

Postpartum depression didn’t hit this actress until her daughter, Coco, turned six months. Symptoms like a racing heart and insomnia plagued her until she sought help for what she calls “hormones that had been pummeled.”

Gwyneth Paltrow

Despite a healthy perinatal period with her daughter, Apple, this starlet says she felt “no maternal instinct” for her son, Moses, born in 2006. Describing herself as a robot without feelings during her son’s three months, Paltrow’s then husband, Coldplay front man Chris Martin, encouraged her to get help.

Bryce Dallas Howard

This young actress starred in The Twilight Sage: Eclipse as well as The Help but cried everyday after giving birth to her first child, Theo. Unable to eat or successfully breastfeed, her mood swings were extreme until she saw a therapist.

Hayden Panettiere

After giving birth to her daughter, Kaya, in December 2014, this 26-year old star of Nashville experienced extreme postpartum depression. She took a break from the show, voluntarily seeking help at a treatment center in the fall of 2015. *SOURCE: HEALTH.COM

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 37

OUT OF THE BLUE: Perinatal Mood Disorders darkened this Okanagan Woman’s days until she got help. Now Tascheleia Marangoni helps other Canadian mothers see the light.

CELEBRITIES Who Have Suffered

“

Brooke Shields

“It is not until you become a mother that your judgment slowly turns to compassion and understanding.”

BY SHANNON LINDEN

– ERMA BOMBECK, HUMOR WRITER

“

Motherhood:

The most exhausting, emotional, rewarding and life-enhancing journey a woman can take.” – CHARLOTTE PEARSON, AUTHOR

36 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

PMDA Is Born

Recognizing Perinatal Mood Disorders

Baby Blues

Post-Partum Depression

Postpartum Psychosis

Loving support, medication, regular exercise, a healthy diet including extra vitamin B and magnesium, and letting go of unrealistic expectations, keeps Marangoni going strong.

Perinatal Anxiety Disorders

Courteney Cox

Gwyneth Paltrow

Bryce Dallas Howard

Hayden Panettiere

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 37

I N C L U D I N G B E S T C O M PAC T C A R - 2 0 1 6 M A Z DA 3 B E S T C O N V E R T I B L E S A N D R OA D S T E R S U N D E R $ 5 0 , 0 0 0 - 2 0 1 6 M A Z DA B E S T N E W C A R O F T H E Y E A R - 2 0 1 6 M A Z DA M X- 5

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LOADED GRANOLA COOKIES about 3 dozen cookies INGREDIENTS 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature ¾ cup brown sugar ¾ cup white sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 2 eggs 2 cups whole white wheat flour 1 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. baking soda ½ tsp. salt 1 cup coconut 1 cup old fashioned oats 1 cup crispy brown rice cereal 1 cup golden raisins (or dried cranberries) 1 cup dark chocolate chunks 1 cup chopped pecans 1/3 cup wheat germ 38 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350. 2. In a large mixing bowl beat butter and sugars. Add vanilla and eggs and blend well. 3. Mix flours, baking powder and soda, salt. Add in half of dry ingredients to butter and sugar mixture and blend well. Add in remaining flour mix until just blended (do not over beat). 4. Add all remaining ingredients and stir just to combine. 5. Scoop and drop by the tablespoon onto a cookie sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are golden.

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8 Weeks After (Single side treatment)

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AS WELL AS ALL YOUR NON-SURGICAL COSMETIC PROCEDURES

2016 MAZDA CX-5

LASER & VEIN REJUVENATION

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2 0 1 6 M A Z DA 6

“All net profits from the ReStores in Kelowna go towards building homes locally,

The old adage

“One man’s trash is another’s treasure” couldn’t be closer to the truth in Habitat for Humanity’s ReStores. Entering one of these centers is like being dropped smack into the middle of an eclectically ginormous garage sale. What’s a ReStore?

Best described as a social enterprise, ReStores are home renovation/decor and building supply outlets created by Habitat for Humanity to fund the charity’s mission: To provide home ownership to deserving families. Unique in concept, 100% of inventory is donated by commercial builders, leasing agents, manufacturers, businesses and local citizens. Products are sold at a fraction (50% - 80%) of the retail price to the general public - deal seekers who inevitably find those “I just have to have that” items on ReStores’ abundantly stocked shelves. In essence, a customer buying a bargain, helps Habitat build a home. The world’s first ReStore opened its doors in Winnipeg in 1991. Yes, it’s a Canadian creation! Since that date, stores have been established in Australia, New Zealand and, most recently, in Europe. Canada and the USA have 95 and 850 centers respectively. Of the fourteen stores in BC, there are two thriving locations in the Okanagan: one in West Kelowna which opened in 2012; and a larger (23,000 sq. ft.) center in Kelowna established in 2015. Although the concept is relatively new, Rob Voisin, Vice-President of ReStore & Product Support for Canada says it’s growing fast. “In 2015, the 95 Canadian stores grossed a total of $55,000,000

from Osoyoos to Armstrong, here in the Okanagan...We are now able to build continuously – with no time gaps between the construction of each project.

Something Good’s In Store...

There’s no place like home...

BY LAURA GOSSET

in sales, with approximately $23,000,000 of that amount being profits for Habitat.” In addition to funding Habitat for Humanity’s home building projects, shopping at a ReStore is an environmentally conscious decision. Much of what is sold is reusable material that would otherwise be thrown away. Since 1998, Voisin estimates ReStores have been responsible for diverting more than 250,000 tons of “good waste” from landfills.

Got stuff?

We all have stuff we no longer need, use or even know why we bought in the first place. To this Deborah Guthrie, Executive Director for Habitat for Humanity Okanagan, passionately declares, “Don’t dump it, donate it.” Donations can be dropped off at either Kelowna location during regular store hours or, if it’s BIG stuff, a (curb only) pick-up can be arranged by calling a local store. While every Habitat ReStore is a little different, most welcome donations of household goods, furniture, appliances and building materials. The two Kelowna stores, however, take an even broader approach. “It’s easier to tell you what we don’t take than what we do. We do not accept clothing, mattresses and worn-out, damaged furniture. That’s about it,” Guthrie, explains.

40 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

“We do take doors and windows, flooring, lighting and plumbing fixtures, cabinetry, electronics, molding, tiles, home decor items and everything else. We also accept new items...overstocked, seconds, returns and discontinued products from local businesses. Oh...and, we absolutely love full kitchens.” For donations in excess of $100, Habitat will issue a tax receipt (upon request) based on the estimated ReStore sale price.

Why shop at ReStores?

For some, it’s simply thrift. For others, it’s all about going green, removing useable items from the global garbage stream. Many, however, just enjoy the artistic aesthetics of a warm worn finish or a cool retro style. Thomas A. Edison once said, “To invent, you need a good imagination and a pile of junk.” Many ReStore customers seem to have an abundance of both. They upcycle, repurpose and refurbish their ReStore gems so what’s old becomes new again - but with a twist. The staff at ReStores Kelowna love to celebrate the

fun of upcycling by holding regular contests to share ideas and honor their customers’ ingenuity. Check out Kelowna ReStores’ Website: www. habitatforhumanityokanagan. ca/restore and FaceBook Page: www.facebook.com/ HabitatforHumanityOkanagan for best before and after pictures of repurposed or refurbished projects from the currently running competition for designers, “This to That for Habitat”. The winner will be announced April, 2016.

“What is it Wednesdays?”

New inventory arrives daily from a variety of donors and the turn-over is remarkably fast, so every trip to a ReStore offers something different. That uniqueness of inventory inspired the creation of “What is it Wednesdays?” – a post of a picture of the donated item on Habitat for Humanity, Kelowna’s Facebook Page.

“Often vintage items will be donated that staff can’t identify. We just don’t know what the thing is or what it was used for in the past,” Guthrie, says. “We decided to see if our Facebook supporters could help.” When asked about the most unusual item ever donated, she’s stumped. “There’s so many.” Smiling, she recalls, “Someone brought in what our Friends on FaceBook told us was a parrot feeder. Then there was a 1930’s Rolmonica, a player harmonica – sort of like a player piano, but you blow into it to make it play... Let’s see....donations of antiques, original signed paintings and vintage Pez Candy Dispensers are reasonably common. We get some really interesting things come into the store.” Joking, she adds, “Even intimate items (wink, wink) forgotten in donated cabinets.”

Want to volunteer?

The majority (90%) of the ReStore staff are volunteers. From working in the warehouse or as a cashier, to helping load/ unload merchandise and pricing and repairing inventory, the opportunities to volunteer abound. For those who want to buckle on a tool belt, there are also lots of volunteer positions available on the Habitat buildsites.

All Okanagan families deserve a decent, affordable and safe place to live. Habitat for Humanity Okanagan (a non-profit affiliate of the parent organization) is committed to making that dream a reality. Prior to ReStores, Habitat Okanagan would fundraise, then build a home, then have to fundraise again before it could start construction on another build site. Guthrie explains: “ReStores have changed all that. All net profits from the ReStores in Kelowna go towards building homes locally, from Osoyoos to Armstrong, here in the Okanagan...We are now able to build continuously – with no time gaps between the construction of each project. In 2016, we will be able to build nine homes for qualified families. Without the two Kelowna ReStores, we probably would have been able to build only two.” From the funds raised by Habitat Okanagan, $5,000 per year (the estimated equivalent to the cost of building one home in the developing world) is designated for global home-building initiatives. The balance stays in the Okanagan. In the past five years, the Okanagan affiliate of Habitat has built a total of thirty-one homes: two in the Penticton area; two in Vernon; five in West Kelowna; six in Peachland; and sixteen in the Kelowna area.

The Habitat home building model allows deserving families to achieve greater stability and improve their quality of life, while building equity in their future. But it is a hand up, not a hand out. Houses built by Habitat are sold at fair market value – not given - to qualified families. Even though there is no monetary down-payment and financing is by way of affordable, no interest mortgages, sweat equity is required. Families must invest 500 hours of their own labour to help Habitat and its volunteers and corporate partners/contractors to construct their homes. In 2013, Habitat ReStores were awarded the Corporate and Social Responsibility Award from the Retail Council of Canada, an honour that recognizes a retailer-initiated program that demonstrates a creative, collaborative response and successful fulfillment of community needs. That’s what Habitat for Humanity’s ReStores are all about. Good finds, funding good work, while helping to save the environment!

Want to shop, donate or volunteer? Contact:

ReStore Kelowna, #800-2092 Enterprise Way, Ph: (778) 755-4346; or ReStore West Kelowna, 1793 Ross Rd., Ph: (778) 755-4346.

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 41

“All net profits from the ReStores in Kelowna go towards building homes locally,

The old adage

from Osoyoos to Armstrong, here in the Okanagan...We are now able to build continuously – with no time gaps between the construction of each project.

Something Good’s In Store...

There’s no place like home...

BY LAURA GOSSET

Got stuff?

40 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

Why shop at ReStores?

“What is it Wednesdays?”

Want to volunteer?

Want to shop, donate or volunteer? Contact:

ReStore Kelowna, #800-2092 Enterprise Way, Ph: (778) 755-4346; or ReStore West Kelowna, 1793 Ross Rd., Ph: (778) 755-4346.

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 41

HOROSCOPE by Heather Zais

Aries

Taurus

MAR 21 - APRIL 19

APRIL 20 - MAY 20

MAY 21 - JUNE 20

Mar - Rely on your intuition to sort out the true direction your ambitions and relationships will take. Pause. Apr - You have the energy and ability to bring about changes more swiftly than expected. Proceed. May - Look at alternative ways to increase your income or position. Circumstances affect reputation.

Mar - Your hopes and wishes are formulating in positive ways so don't give up. Meet with associates.

Mar - Career direction becomes more personal. Show others a warmer, deeper side to your nature. Apr - An inside tip can provide an alternative road for you to advance your agenda. Be the leader. May - Behind the scenes support is great: ask and you shall receive with home, property or luck.

Apr - Manage things behind the scenes as best you can without being radical. Check tests or info. May - Rework deals or arrangements where you feel you can do better. Meet with others to chat.

Cancer

JULY 23 - AUG 22

Mar - You dream of an escape or far away places. Travel one way or the other even if it's virtual reality. Apr - Separate business from personal where you can Don't let others influence you emotionally. May - You have a choice of following a familiar path or embarking on a new one. Weigh the odds.

Mar - Look at the past to see where gains can be made or how to recoup losses. Take care of paperwork. Apr - Adapt to changes of schedule or location as alternatives look better. You get to the right place. May - Stand firm on your position no matter how much others push or pull. You have the upper hand.

JUNE 21 - JULY 22

SEPT 23 - OCT 22 Mar - Pay attention to what you are feeling regarding work or health matters. Something is going on. Apr - You can pull the rug out from under the competition before they have time to notice or dodge. May - Look at renovations or other improvements with home or property. Including estate matters.

DEC 22 - JAN 19 Mar - Investigate areas where you can gain leverage. You need to feel you are in the right place. Apr - Join forces with those who are really in charge. Base of operations is undergoing change. May - You feel more sure of your future direction now as events are unfolding in hopeful ways.

46 2 OKANAGAN WOMAN W S PI N R ITNEG R || 22001165

OCT 23 - NOV 21 Mar - Avoid unsecured speculation unless you get a look at the complete data or proven records. Apr - You are the driving force or catalyst for change. Use your influence. Others try to adapt. May - Keep a tight hold on the reins when it comes to financial matters where others are involved.

JAN 20 - FEB 18 Mar - Finances can be more fluid or there are additional sources even if they are not long term. Apr - Others see you as an authority in your field. Be willing to instruct or disclose information. May - Older individuals will let you know they have your back. Take some time out to relax now.

HOME THE PSYCHOLOGY OF

Virgo

AUG 23 - SEPT 22 Mar - Relationships are key to major decisions you need to make affecting the future. Assess loyalties. Apr - Your connection to others money or assets will give you an added sense of security for now. May - Find a quiet place or retreat where you will be able to relax and contemplate future ambitions.

I’ve always considered myself emotionally unattached to my home. After all, when it comes right down to it, a house is just four walls and furniture. But I recently read an article about the psychology of home; and I realized I might be more attached to my home than I realized.

Our homes are uniquely personal. In mine, a print of Picadilly Circus and a double decker bus hangs on the wall in the kitchen, a reminder of my husband’s British roots. Our bedroom is decorated with half a dozen Maxine Noel’s prints to celebrate my Metis heritage. Our home is on a small forested acreage in the country, an indication of our desire for privacy and retreat. An analysis of or homes shows who we are – emotionally and inherently.

HOME DECOR F E A T U R E

Our homes often reflect how we see ourselves. They are an extension of ourselves. Walls painted in bold colours might reflect the personalities of the home’s inhabitants.

SO IN SPRING, AS THE FEVER GRABS US, IT IS LITTLE WONDER WE ARE FIXATED CREATING MEANINGFUL SPACES. REFRESH, RESTORE, RENEW.

NOV 22 - DEC 21 Mar - Keep home or family matters private as long as you can as there will be changes to them. Apr - Harness your power behind the scenes. You feel lucky. Be aware of other opportunities. May - Your sense of duty and responsibility will bring you the gains you seek with reputation.

FEB 19 - MAR 20 Mar - You have a hypnotic affect on others now. You swim easily between all levels of negotiations. Apr - Seek a settlement near or far. It will be important to have all the related data or proof of it. May - Your words are soothing to the concerns of others. Use your authority to pull some strings.

Spice up your décor with the latest trends for your home & garden Visit Kelowna’s only Real Deals on Home Décor for the best prices in town!

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OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 43

HOROSCOPE by Heather Zais

Aries

Taurus

MAR 21 - APRIL 19

APRIL 20 - MAY 20

MAY 21 - JUNE 20

Mar - Your hopes and wishes are formulating in positive ways so don't give up. Meet with associates.

Apr - Manage things behind the scenes as best you can without being radical. Check tests or info. May - Rework deals or arrangements where you feel you can do better. Meet with others to chat.

Cancer

JULY 23 - AUG 22

JUNE 21 - JULY 22

46 2 OKANAGAN WOMAN W S PI N R ITNEG R || 22001165

HOME THE PSYCHOLOGY OF

Virgo

HOME DECOR F E A T U R E

Our homes often reflect how we see ourselves. They are an extension of ourselves. Walls painted in bold colours might reflect the personalities of the home’s inhabitants.

SO IN SPRING, AS THE FEVER GRABS US, IT IS LITTLE WONDER WE ARE FIXATED CREATING MEANINGFUL SPACES. REFRESH, RESTORE, RENEW.

Spice up your décor with the latest trends for your home & garden Visit Kelowna’s only Real Deals on Home Décor for the best prices in town!

THURS, FRI & SAT 10-6 1075 McCurdy RD Kelowna, BC V1X 2P9 778.363.6185 www.realdeals.net/kelowna /realdealskelowna

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 43

HOME DECOR F E A T U R E

HOME DÉCOR TRENDS FOR 2016

Good-bye snow. Hello spring flowers. The urge to home decorate is a natural phenomenon that occurs as soon as the first robins appear, tulips start to bloom and we move into longer days. Like all animals in nature, human beings begin the nesting rituals of decluttering and making our homes ready for the new season. The modern home is always evolving. Here are some design trends you can expect to see this year.

TWO TONE KITCHEN CABINETS AND DEEP DRAWERS ARE ALL THE RAGE.

White kitchens never go out of style; but this year funky, colourful patterned accents are added to the mix. Formal dining rooms are back, too!

THE EXPERTS SAY WE WANT PLENTIFUL OUTDOOR SPACES WHENEVER POSSIBLE.

A sunroom is at the top of the list for many of us. We crave the warmth of the spring sun. Even if space to add a sunroom isn’t available, homeowners can often find a special sundrenched corner in their homes that allows them to bring the outside in.

THE BEDROOM REMAINS A SANCTUARY.

A can of paint will certainly transform the look and feel of a bedroom, but a change in furniture will take it to the next level. Rustic elements are always popular and 2016 is no different.

FOR HOME ACCESSORIES AND ACCENT PIECES, THINK MACRAME, TASSELS AND CROCHET!

Weaving is in! So are minerals. While polished geodes attached to lucite bases have long been popular, watch for pyrite bowls and chunky quartz display pieces. Throw unpolished semiprecious stones into the mix, too.

ANOTHER TREND IS TINTED STAINLESS STEEL, not only in kitchen

SCREENS THAT

DISAPPEAR! It’s funny how something so simple – like screens that roll up and disappear – can make people so happy. But they do. Retractable screens are getting incredibly popular these days and there are many reasons why. So, here are the top three reasons why people are choosing retractable screens over fixed screens or sliding screens.

appliances but also in furniture legs and handles, clock and mirror frames. However you choose to reinvigorate your home décor, you will most certainly be spoilt for choice.

TWO. FRENCH DOORS Retractable screens really offer the only solution to screen a set of French doors. Two screens are mounted to each side of the door frame. The dual screens meet in the center and are held in place with a hidden latch system in the slide bar and tracks. And you can open one at a time – which makes access in and out of the house easy!

ONE. THEY WON’T OBSTRUCT YOUR VIEW The great thing about retractable screens is that they disappear from view when you don’t need them! And that allows you to enjoy your view to the outside without having to look through mesh when you’re not using them. Fixed screens are there all year round and looking through them can get really annoying. With retractable screens you don’t have to! Plus you can get them customized with a wide choice of colours and wood grain finishes. What’s more, depending on the product you choose, retractable screens can be recessed so they are completely hidden from view until needed. 44 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

The great thing about them is they are perfect for both in-swing or out-swing doors – giving you the benefits of screens while preserving the look of your doors and your view to the outside.

THREE. REDUCE YOUR ENERGY BILLS It’s true! Retractable screens can help reduce your air conditioning costs and lower the amount of energy used to cool your home. What’s more, if you use exterior mounted retractable screens, they can be as much as seven times more effective at keeping the interior cool as blinds or curtains on the inside. So there you have it. Three great reasons to choose retractable screens instead of fixed or sliding screens.

Contact Somers Screen Solutions at 250-762-7592 or visit phantomscreensokanagan.com to learn more! OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 45

HOME DECOR F E A T U R E

HOME DÉCOR TRENDS FOR 2016

TWO TONE KITCHEN CABINETS AND DEEP DRAWERS ARE ALL THE RAGE.

White kitchens never go out of style; but this year funky, colourful patterned accents are added to the mix. Formal dining rooms are back, too!

THE EXPERTS SAY WE WANT PLENTIFUL OUTDOOR SPACES WHENEVER POSSIBLE.

THE BEDROOM REMAINS A SANCTUARY.

A can of paint will certainly transform the look and feel of a bedroom, but a change in furniture will take it to the next level. Rustic elements are always popular and 2016 is no different.

FOR HOME ACCESSORIES AND ACCENT PIECES, THINK MACRAME, TASSELS AND CROCHET!

ANOTHER TREND IS TINTED STAINLESS STEEL, not only in kitchen

SCREENS THAT

appliances but also in furniture legs and handles, clock and mirror frames. However you choose to reinvigorate your home décor, you will most certainly be spoilt for choice.

The great thing about them is they are perfect for both in-swing or out-swing doors – giving you the benefits of screens while preserving the look of your doors and your view to the outside.

Contact Somers Screen Solutions at 250-762-7592 or visit phantomscreensokanagan.com to learn more! OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 45

FANNY’S FURNITURE & KEKULI BAY CABINETRY

HOME DECOR F E A T U R E

OH MODERN LIFE! OUR HOMES HAVE BECOME OUR SANCTUARIES, ESCAPE FROM THE PRESSURES OF TODAY’S HECTIC PACE.

The only limit is your imagination.

COME SEE OUR EXPERT SALES AND DESIGN TEAMS FOR YOUR FURNITURE AND CABINETRY NEEDS, AND LET US HELP YOU TURN YOUR HOUSE INTO THE HOME OF YOUR DREAMS.

Monday to Saturday 9:00 - 5:30.

46 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

For 2016, simplicity, serenity and elegance are the catchwords in home décor – a reflection of our need to switch off and unwind. Warm but calming colours, natural textures and soft simple lines will enhance every area of your home with timeless, effortless style. We want to live harmoniously with our environment so natural materials and muted colour that can be found in nature are dominating the kitchen living space. Understated palettes will be the key in 2016. Sophisticated, varying shades of luxury greys and taupes, light and dark wood, and flares of metallic and glossy finishes will create that timeless design with a touch of flare. Fanny’s Furniture & Kekuli Bay Cabinetry are continually bringing in new designs. Heartwood is a new, rustic line of Canadian made furniture, created from resawn maple and oak.

THE HEARTWOOD COLLECTION OFFERS A UNIQUE STYLE AND THE QUALITY OKANAGAN CUSTOMERS DEMAND. With new techniques at the factory level, Fanny’s Furniture and Kekuli Bay Cabinetry are able to achieve an instant aging look of materials. Adding texture and depth to a space gives character and adds an unexpected touch that intrigues the senses. Visit Fannys Furniture & Kekuli Bay Cabinetry in person at 1794 Baron Rd, Kelowna or online at fannysfurniture.com 250.868.8444

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 47

FANNY’S FURNITURE & KEKULI BAY CABINETRY

HOME DECOR F E A T U R E

OH MODERN LIFE! OUR HOMES HAVE BECOME OUR SANCTUARIES, ESCAPE FROM THE PRESSURES OF TODAY’S HECTIC PACE.

The only limit is your imagination.

COME SEE OUR EXPERT SALES AND DESIGN TEAMS FOR YOUR FURNITURE AND CABINETRY NEEDS, AND LET US HELP YOU TURN YOUR HOUSE INTO THE HOME OF YOUR DREAMS.

Monday to Saturday 9:00 - 5:30.

46 OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016

OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 47

IT’S A DRESSER...... IT’S A BED...... NO!

It’s the

ARE YOUR BEDROOMS HEALTHY?

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Solid Hardwood Construction - NOT MDF or Veneers. Tri-Fold Premium Gel 6” Queen Size Mattress included. 10 Year Manufacturer’s Registered Warranty. Built-in Dual Power/USB Module to charge your mobile devices. 3 Colour choices: Cherry, Dark Chocolate, and the New Cottage Style in Buttercream. Platform is 2.5” higher than the competition = easier to get on and off. Delivery to most areas of Canada and the U.S. available.

DARK CHOCOLATE

BUTTERCREAM

family. You try for more healthy. even organic alternatives in the food you eat. You spend the extra time reading labels to limit GMO’s in your diet. You exercise and take care of your body. If you have children, you promote activity for them as well. You are doing all the right things to enhance the health and wellbeing of your family, but could you be doing more? The triumvirate of health includes good nutrition, fitness, and….sleep. Shouldn’t your mattress, bedding, and furniture fall under the same scrutiny as what you take into your body and how you treat it? Unfortunately, not many of us understand what is really inside our mattresses or what our bedding may have been treated with before packaging, or what that smell is coming from the new furniture or memory foam topper you just bought? The bedroom should be your sanctuary, a safe environment and buffer from everything that bombards you throughout the day. So many of us believe that there are regulations in place to keep us safe from harmful products, we hear the term “within government standards” and believe we are being watched over but….we are wrong! There are more than 61 VOC chemicals used to make memory foam, some of which are proven cancer causing benzenes, volatile

organic compounds, and if made overseas in Asia….there could even be heavy metals. Bed linens aren’t safe either… formaldehyde is used to eliminate wrinkles, voc’s from synthetics and/or fire retardants are added, not to mention pesticides that are used heavily in growing cotton. That new imported furniture can have up to 6+ times the formaldehyde count due to the particle board in it’s construction, as well as lead or other chemicals. Mattresses are a toxic soup of petrochemical goo and fire retardants that never stop offgassing. We are slowly poisoning ourselves over time. It’s time to take back our bedrooms and enhance the health of our families in what should be our place of healing.

in pure natural mattresses, showcasing Millbrook Beds (all natural and handmade in the UK), Sprout Natural Sleep, and Nature’s Embrace 100% certified organic latex mattresses, all using natural fibres from plants and animals, pure latex from the rubber tree, and providing clean fresh air where you sleep. Latex offers that WOW effect that you look for in a mattress. Made from the sap of the rubber tree, it is super resilient and lasts 20 years +, it breathes and sleeps cool, and it is antimicrobial which is important for allergy or asthma sufferers. Natural fibres such as pure wool, silk, cotton, etc. wick away moisture and acclimatizes to each sleeper….cooler in the Summer, warmer in the Winter and adds to the anti bacteria/anti dust mite feature of the latex.

WISE ADVICE: “Always buy a good bed and a good pair of shoes…..because, if you’re not in one, you’re in the other!”

morphing into a health store…. we don’t just sell mattresses, we sell sleep!” says McLeary, “Our bedding dept. is very different than most stores as well….with a nice selection of organic or natural pillows, duvets, toppers and protectors. We specialize in Bamboo and Tencel sheet sets, as well as organic cotton…..no chemicals.” Solid wood bedroom furniture, kidsafe bunk beds and children’s furniture made safe & sturdy with no offgassing round out Sleepy’s healthier bedroom options.

HERE’S THE GOOD NEWS! Sleepy’s offer a wide range

of green, natural, and organic alternatives for the bedroom to enhance your health and allow you to properly rejuvenate during your night’s sleep. Geoff McLeary, owner of Sleepy’s says “you will find no greenwashing in our store…just the straight goods and sound information on each item we sell and how green it really is”. Sleepy’s doesn’t sell memory foam mattresses even though they are the most advertised on the market. Says Geoff, “They are not good for you….period!” Sleepy’s offers only the best

“You will find green, natural/ green, natural, and organic sleep systems in our store. You will also find 2 sided flippable mattresses which means no body impressions. We are

Sleepy’s – The Mattress Store - #3-1725 Baron Rd. - Kelowna. T. 250-868-2337 E. sleepys@shaw.ca W. www.sleepys.ca OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 49

IT’S A DRESSER...... IT’S A BED...... NO!

It’s the

ARE YOUR BEDROOMS HEALTHY?

ALL NEW MURPHY CABINET BED!

Sleep Safe

IN A TOXIC WORLD HERE’S THE BAD NEWS! You try to do the best for your LIMITED TIME

1,988

(Including Queen Mattress) Add $100 for Cottage style

CHERRY

EASY TO USE, EASIER TO LOVE! • • • • • Sleepy’s – The Mattress Store #3-1725 Baron Rd. - Kelowna 250-868-2337 | sleepys@shaw.ca www.sleepys.ca

• •

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WISE ADVICE: “Always buy a good bed and a good pair of shoes…..because, if you’re not in one, you’re in the other!”

HERE’S THE GOOD NEWS! Sleepy’s offer a wide range

“You will find green, natural/ green, natural, and organic sleep systems in our store. You will also find 2 sided flippable mattresses which means no body impressions. We are

Sleepy’s – The Mattress Store - #3-1725 Baron Rd. - Kelowna. T. 250-868-2337 E. sleepys@shaw.ca W. www.sleepys.ca OKANAGAN WOMAN SPRING | 2016 49

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IN TE RI ORS 1788 BARON ROAD, KELOWNA VISIT JORDANS.CA TEL: 250.861.8656