Tidings 2017 - Annapolis Valley, NS by SaltWire Network

HO LIDAY • 2017

NOVA SCOTIA’S GUIDE TO ALL THINGS HOLIDAY

A FORAGED CHRISTMAS

Bring the sights of the season inside

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18 Winter warm-ups Recipes featuring local ingredients and adding some Canadian spirits

NOVA SCOTIA’S GUIDE TO ALL THINGS HOLIDAY Tidings is published by The SaltWire Network, Custom and Community Publishing Department Publisher: Sarah Dennis Vice President, Client Marketing: Jeff Nearing Manager, Custom Publishing: Lindsey Bunin Senior Designer: Peter Ross Customer Relations Specialist: Jennifer MacLean Advertising Sales: Shawn Patterson, South Shore/Yarmouth/Valley Scott MacQuarrie, Cape Breton Brian Lazzuri, Antigonish Paul Crewe, Halifax Danielle Johnson, Truro Contributors: Colleen Cosgrove, Cynthia McMurray, Heather Desveaux, Colleen Thompson, Mark DeWolf

ENTERTAINING 5

Liven up your holiday party with some friendly competition

Photos: 123RF Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without expressed written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. 2717 Joseph Howe Drive Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 2T2 Tel: 902-426-2811 For more festive content daily, visit our website at:

www.tidingsns.ca

It’s all fun and games …

DÉCOR 6

A foraged Christmas Bring the sights of the season inside

GIFT GUIDE 10 Seasonal splurges Go all out this year with some of Nova Scotia’s most quintessential luxury items

22 Foodie gift guide Alternative options fit for your favourite foodie

26 Curl up with a good book 10 truly Nova Scotian books to put under the tree

28 From the Maritimes, with love Locally-sourced gifts to send your homesick loved ones

FOOD & DRINK 18 Winter warm-ups Recipes featuring local ingredients and adding some Canadian spirits

20 Game for a new holiday? It doesn’t always have to be turkey on the Christmas dinner table

23 Toast of the season Serve up Champagne and sparkling wine cocktails tidingsns.ca •

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HOLIDAY PLANNING

Planning for the holidays 7 smart things to do in December

ven though it might feel like there is still lots of time to get organized, Christmas festivities are fast approaching. If you start planning your Christmas now, the holidays will be much more enjoyable — you’ll be partying instead of panicking! With that in mind, it’s time to start making lists, cooking and cleaning. 1. Use a calendar Write down all the parties you already have scheduled. If you want to go on outings with family or friends, note them down as well, including a trip weekend road trip to the country, skiing, skating or sliding. 2. Send party invitations and write your Christmas cards Mail or email party invitations as early as possible in December. Print off a nice family photo and use that for your invitations and greeting cards. 3. Decorate the house Hang a few electric wreaths outside. Inside, decorate the Christmas tree, and arrange a few pine branches in a vase. Now you’re all set!

4. Cook smart Plan your menu and draw up a detailed list of all the food you have to purchase. When you’re cooking, make extras that you can reheat and use to feed the family during busy times. 5. Buy the gifts Make a list of the Christmas gifts you have to buy and avoid leaving the shopping until Christmas Eve!

6. Get the family looking their best If you can, buy a few new items of clothing for all the family. There’s no good reason to celebrate Christmas in a faded old blouse. This is also the time to freshen up your haircut, get a manicure and pluck your eyebrows.

7. Clean strategically You don’t have to clean your home from top to bottom, but at least make sure that neglected areas are spick and span. Don’t hesitate to use a home cleaning service if the job seems overwhelming.

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ENTERTAINING

Have some fun with it Liven up your holiday party with some friendly competition

hen it comes to entertaining the guests at your holiday party, there’s nothing wrong with sticking to the classics — Pictionary, charades and the like are fun and easy to play. However, if you want to try something new this year, here are some ideas to mix things up. Musical bingo Make bingo cards, but replace the word “bingo” with “piano” and write down the titles of Christmas carols instead of numbers. When a song that’s on your card gets drawn, you have to sing it (stick to one verse and one chorus, if you prefer) to be able to place a chip on that square in hopes of getting a “piano.” Is the song on more than one card? May the best performance win! Guess my resolution Have everyone anonymously write down one of their New Year’s resolutions, and then try to match each one with its author. Whoever has the most correct guesses is the winner. You can also play this game with famous quotes or expressions, as chosen by your guests.

Logos Print out a variety of corporate logos — making sure to mask any visible company names — and ask players to match each one with the business it represents. You can also play this game with slogans instead of logos. Fun for everyone Organize a three-legged race in the snow. Have a contest to build the world’s most beautiful snowman (with toilet paper) or tallest Christmas tree (with humans). Fill an oversized Christmas stocking with different items and take turns trying to guess the contents. Fun times guaranteed!

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HOLIDAY DECOR

A foraged Christmas Bringing the sights of the season inside By Colleen Thompson

he idea behind foraging is to use what is native to your surroundings and create a connection between people and nature. There’s beauty in the scent of fir trees, the texture and shape of gnarled, mossy branches and the bright red pop of berries that Mother Nature does so much better than we ever could. It’s a great excuse to get outside, involve the kids or combine it with a dog walk. Let’s keep the festivities close to the earth this year – roll up your sleeves, channel your inner naturalist, and bring the bounty of the outdoors inside.

Fir sugar From fir to spruce trees, the needles of all of them are edible and when blitzed with sugar they become wildly versatile – rim glasses for holiday inspired cocktails, spice up your sugar cookie batter, combine it in frosting, create a simple syrup cordial or bottle it up in jars and give as gifts. Combine a quarter cup of washed Douglas fir needles with a quarter cup of sugar in a spice grinder. Transfer the bright green, aromatic sugar into a bowl and combine it with another cup of sugar and mix it well. Transfer the sugar to a jar, add a ribbon and voila, hostess gift!

Spice pot I have to credit a Nordic friend who introduced me to this this quick and easy way to freshen up your space. Back home in Norway, they would boil a large pot of water on an open fire and add conifer branches, like juniper and fir, chuck in handfuls of cones, and berries and toast the winter solstice, along with a spiked, spicy Glögg. Spice pots on a stovetop are mini versions of these bonfires. It is an all-natural, easy to make and create the most amazing fragrance for your home! All spice pots have the same base ingredients: a branch of juniper, a sprig of fir tree, orange peel, whole cinnamon, whole cloves, whole nutmeg. Combine with water and gently simmer away, releasing the festive scent throughout your home.

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Rose hips Perhaps my favourite piece of the wild to bring inside at this time of the year is rose hips. They are simple, elegant and striking all on their own in a vase. The large hips can be strung on wire and formed into small rings or heart shapes for hanging on the tree or left long and looped around candles.

Foraged wreath What better way to give thanks for the year and nature’s bounty, than to make a wreath out of things gathered? Evergreens remind us of nature during winter’s long dark days, just as they did for ancient cultures that cut bits of evergreen, holly and mistletoe and brought them indoors to shelter the spirits from winter’s chill. Making a foraged wreath need not be a complicated affair. You can use a ready-made wire base or make your own using stems that are long, slender and flexible, like birch and dogwood. If the stems have natural decorations like tiny cones, seeds, berries or catkins all much the better.

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HOLIDAY DECOR

O Christmas tree... Weighing the pros and cons of real and artificial trees

othing can take the place of a Christmas tree when it comes time to decorate our homes for the holidays. The tree is the focal point of the Christmas décor and sets the tone for the style and colours of all the other festive decorations. The pleasure of decorating the tree is what counts the most, whether you choose to have a natural or an artificial one. Both types of trees have their pros and cons.

THE ADVANTAGES OF A NATURAL TREE: • It fills the house with a wonderful aroma • It has a natural look (which is always more beautiful) • It doesn’t require storage space • It’s an ecological option — natural trees do not contribute to deforestation, as they are cultivated for this purpose. Gas and oil use are minimal in their production; they can be composted; and they are produced locally or regionally.

THE ADVANTAGES OF AN ARTIFICIAL TREE: • It is simple to set up • It doesn’t lose its needles • It doesn’t need to be watered • Wide variety of colours and styles to match any decor • If kept for more than ten years it could end up being less expensive than buying a natural tree every year

DECORATING TIPS: To avoid a “busy” effect when decorating your Christmas tree, choose a style or theme. Here are a few examples: monochrome decorations, antique look, modern style, food theme (figures made of gingerbread or pastry), or a wild touch (feathers, synthetic fur, reindeers). Once you’ve chosen your theme, take the time to find decorations that go well together and that will create the look you want.

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LOCAL GIFT GUIDE

Quintessential Nova Scotian Christmas splurges Budgets be warned, this list is for serious shoppers only By Colleen Cosgrove

uring the Christmas season we’re bombarded with temptation, but just like saying yes to that third spiked egg nog, it feels good to throw caution to the wind. The 2017 newscycle was a rough one, so if you feel it’s high time you treat yourself or your loved ones, consider this your highrolling, budget-busting Nova Scotia holiday shopping list. Say it with crystal Remember how emotional we got when NovaScotian Crystal announced it was bankrupt and needed help? Nova Scotians responded by lining up the block in support of a truly unique artistry that we’re proud to call our own. That community support helped the iconic crystal shop survive and allowed its talented artisans to stay put in Halifax, so if you have yet to adorn your table with crystal, perhaps this is the year you go big and sparkly. The company offers corporate gifts and ornaments under $100, while vases, glassware and candle holders with Maritime-inspired monikers range in price from $49 to $399. Charter a tuna fishing boat Got an adventurous outdoorsman in your life and an extra $2,000? Send your beloved on a journey into the Atlantic with one of Nova Scotia’s 20 local Giant Bluefin

Tuna fishing tour operators. Tours are for sport only, so pack your selfie stick but don’t expect to take a lifetime of sashimi home even if you net the big one. The local fishing season runs June through October, with tours departing various ports across the province like Ballantyne’s Cove on the Northumberland Shore and Cape Breton. Fun fact: Nova Scotia is one of the top 10 places in the world to catch giant tuna, according to Sport Fishing Magazine.

Weekend retreat From forest bathing and wellness retreats to off-the-grid culinary adventures and luxurious spas, Nova Scotia is brimming with weekend-long activities to soothe what ails you. Need a weekend of nothing but massage, yoga and chef-made vegetarian meals; or maybe a hands-on leadership retreat is more your style? Then try Windhorse Farms in New Germany, N.S. Or perhaps you want to get in touch with nature while testing

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LOCAL GIFT GUIDE

your pasta-making skills? Then try Trout Point Lodge in East Kemptville. And if that’s not your cup of tea, there’s always the pampered luxury on offer at Fox Harb’r Resort in Wallace. Buy the bubbly Stop saving those uncorked bottles of your favourite vintage of bubbly and buy the whole case. Better yet, buy a case of Benjamin Bridge’s Nova 7 or your other favourite Nova Scotia bubbly and find a reason to celebrate every month of the year. Challenge accepted. Local art Liven up your walls with a piece of art by a Nova Scotian artist. Research local artists and find the one who creates art that speaks to you and your space. Buy a bold, conversation starter and get to know the artist and

their story. You’ll be surprised how much momentum the artist will see thanks to your big-spending purchase. Need a starting point? Visit ArtBombDaily.com online or Zwicker’s Art Gallery, Secord Gallery, Argyle Fine Art, Studio 21 Fine Art in Halifax and Quartet Gallery in Lunenburg. Have a more modest budget? Try one of these activities for $500 or less: • Breathe in the salty Atlantic air with sailing, surfing or diving lessons. • Bring a piece of Nova Scotian nature into the home with a locally-sourced and made wood cutting board or decorative bowl.

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Unplug and unwind with an overnight stay at a local bed and breakfast. Plan the ultimate city weekend with a Halifax Hurricanes basketball game, a candlelit dinner at Press Gang and trendy cocktails at Lot 6. Cap off the weekend with a matinee show at Neptune Theatre and lunch at Bistro Le Coq and you’ve got yourself a weekend. Pack up your rain boots and point the car towards Parrsboro or Cape Blomidon Provincial Park and go hunting for gemstones like amethyst crystal, quartz and copper.

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HOLIDAY EVENTS

Make merry this holiday season ANNUAL GINGERBREAD HOUSE COMPETITION AND DISPLAY This yearly community event is a celebration of Christmas and all things gingerbread. It promises to be holiday fun for children and adults alike. This is the perfect opportunity to display your inventive and unique gingerbread houses, which will be displayed at businesses throughout the community. They will be judged by visitors and commuFATHER CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL nity members who are encouraged to vote IN MAHONE BAY on their favourite creation for the people’s The 2017 Mahone Bay Father Christmas choice award. is a community-wide celebration of the Where: Chester Yuletide Season. The 13th annual festival When: Nov. 18 to Dec. 18 promises streets filled with the sounds and Admission: Free lights of the season and more than 90 larger than life Father Christmas characters. There FESTIVAL OF TREES AND will be a tree lighting ceremony to open the DICKENSVILLE festival on Friday, Nov. 24 at 7 p.m. at the This annual festival begins with the bandstand, plenty of live music and a parade Queens County Museum’s transformation into a magical Christmas showcase, featuring that starts at 7:30 p.m. Bring a lantern and modern-themed and vintage-style Christmas follow Father Christmas to the Mahone Bay Centre for cocoa, cookies and carols with trees, ornaments and decor. It is partnered the Mahone Bay Legion Swing Band and with the magic of the village of Dickensville, taking you through the time of Charles Dick- Festival Carolers. For some delectable treats, ens and all his delightful characters. Everyone check out the Yuletide Gourmet Market that offers everything from sweets, puddings and is invited to drop in to enjoy a taste of fruitpastries to wines and much more. cake and a cup of mulled cider, provided by George and Margaret Mitchell, Liverpool.

Where: Queens County Museum, Liverpool When: Open House, Nov.18 – 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Runs daily until Dec. 23 Admission: Free

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS The yearly 10-day Festival of Lights will kick off the Christmas season and, of course, the lobster season. Come out to see the lighting of a giant Lobster Trap Christmas tree, decorated with buoys in memory of fishermen who have been lost at sea, and those who have since passed on, as well as honour those fishermen who still make their living at sea. Where: Barrington When: Nov. 23 to Dec. 3 – 7 p.m. North East Point Gazebo. Lights on the gazebo and the lobster pot Christmas tree will be turned on at 7:30 pm. North East Point Beach area. Fireworks (Inclement weather date Dec. 4 – 7:30 p.m.)

Where: Mahone Bay bandstand When: Nov. 24 – 6:30 p.m. (festival officially ends Dec. 4) Admission: Free, but if you want tickets to visit four homes “dressed in holiday style” for the “Homes for the Holiday” tour they are $20. Phone 902-624-6089 for more information or email info@mahonebay.com.

4TH ANNUAL LOBSTER DIP For those who dare, you will not want to miss the annual dip in the Atlantic Ocean. Where: Cape Sable Island Causeway When: Nov. 25 – 12 p.m. Admission: Free: $10/dipper, $15/pair of dippers. Proceeds to the Camp Jordan. For more information, phone Sherry at 902-723-0242.

WEYMOUTH FESTIVAL OF TREES Come out to the annual Christmas tree festival to show off your unique Christmas tree idea or just come to view the display of more than 20 uniquely decorated Christmas trees and gingerbread houses. Enjoy some festive apple cider, a craft table for children and a silent auction. Where: Village of Weymouth When: Nov. 25 to 26 Admission: Free

24TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL This Christmas celebration begins with hundreds of people gathering at the heart of New Ross to countdown the lighting of a tree while sipping hot chocolate after having a full belly from the earlier potluck supper. This is followed by a weekend of craft fairs, home cooked meals, carolers, Christmas tree U-picks, children’s fun and visits to local artisans, topped off with magical entertainment, wonderful singers, and dancing the night away. Where: Welcome post at the New Ross Farm Entrance, 4568 Hwy. 12, New Ross When: Dec. 1 to 3 Admission: Free

WINTER SOLSTICE LANTERN WALK Families are invited to come out to the Municipal Activity Recreation Complex (MARC) at Dayspring, to make a simple lantern (supplies and battery tea lights will be provided). After everyone will take a walk on the MARC trails to welcome winter. Enjoy hot drinks around a roaring bonfire. Where: Municipal Activity Recreation Complex (MARC), Dayspring When: Dec. 21 – 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Admission: Donations for PRO Kids welcome

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HOLIDAY LIVING

Great local spots for sledding Bundle up and enjoy our winter wonderland

hite Christmas or not, there’s a guarantee of snow in our collective future. After a big snowfall, kids and kids-at-heart love zooming down the fresh powder of a nice, steep slope. If you’re not lucky enough to have a huge snowy hill in your own background, here are some top sledding destinations from across the region: River Hills Golf Course in Clyde River, Shelburne: In Shelburne County, a favourite sledding spot for locals is the River Hills golf course in Clyde River. The hilly terrain well off the road is a little bit of a trek, but the thrill of the downhill ride makes the effort worthwhile. Many families and children take advantage of the recreational opportunity on winter afternoons when a blanket of snow covers the fairways. Fort Anne, Annapolis Royal: While it’s not promoted as a sledding destination by Parks Canada, the super-steep embankments of Canada’s first national historic site is sure to create some memorable moments in sledding history as they have for generations. The grounds are open year-round, but there is no winter maintenance of the parking lot except a small fire lane. Much of the fort’s ramparts are tucked safely away from road traffic and clear of trees. A visit to some of the town’s quaint cafes is a warming experience, too. Hantsport: The Hantsport Memorial Community Centre encourages coasting on the hill behind Churchill House. Most of the hill is clear from trees although there are some on the side to navigate away from. Parking is available about a hundred feet

away from the hill in the upper parking lot with overflow available in the lower lot located by the outdoor ice rink, about a two-minute hike away. Municipal Activity & Recreation Complex, Dayspring: The MARC, as it is known locally, is managed and maintained by the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg. It has two popular toboggan runs nestled in a scenic area. The runs end at each side of a frozen pond used for family skating. Yarmouth Links Golf Course: When it snows in Yarmouth kids and families head to the golf course in Yarmouth — a tradition that dates back many generations. It’s a safe area to sled with a clear treeless path to the bottom of the hill. The only downfall is the walk back up to the top to do it all over again. It can be a bit of a workout.

placed bumps, perhaps?) with snow barriers on each side to keep kids from flying off in all directions. Build a wall at the top of the hill by making snow cubes: fill a large bucket with snow, add a bit of water and some food colouring, pack it down and then unmould. Spray your entire creation with water to solidify it, and take advantage of subsequent snowfalls to maintain your hill. Voila! All that’s left to do is enjoy!

A SNOW SLIDE IN OUR BACKYARD? COOL! Do your kids love to sled? They’d probably be overjoyed if you told them you were building a sliding hill in your backyard. Are you ready to give it a try and become the envy of your neighbourhood? One big, sticky snowfall and you’re good to go! Start by choosing a site far enough from the road to allow for a good sliding distance. Then, pile the snow up, making sure you pack it down as your hill gets taller. When you’re satisfied with the height, trample on your hill for a while to create a slope that’s just steep enough for an exciting yet safe descent. Once the first part is done, delimit the sliding area (including a few strategically

Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind before you head out: • Dress warmly in waterproof winter gear and don’t wear anything that could pose a strangulation risk, like a scarf. • Helmets are a very good idea, especially for children under 12. A winter sports helmet is ideal, but a bicycle helmet is better than nothing. • Choose a hill with a long, flat area at the bottom so your sled has time to stop — and won’t crash into trees, fences, water or traffic. • Scan the hill to see if there are jumps that might send you careening off-course, or trees that you could slide into. • Opt for sleds that can be steered (or even ones equipped with brakes) instead of crazy carpets or flying saucers that can’t be controlled. • Keep your arms and legs inside the sled while you’re cruising down the hill. If you fall out, move quickly to the side so you don’t get rammed by another sled. • Walk back up the hill away from the area people are sledding. Not only does this keep the track smooth, it means you’re less likely to get knocked down by someone on a sled.

Stay safe while you’re sledding Sledding may seem like a lighthearted way to pass a few hours on a sunny winter day, but it can be dangerous if you don’t take proper precautions.

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HOLIDAY LIVING PRACTICAL TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL FAMILY SKI TRIP Downhill skiing is the perfect activity for an outing with the kids, especially when weather conditions are ideal. Here are a few tips to make your family ski trip a success. • Get everything ready the evening before to avoid forgetting any supplies or equipment. • If you have young children, choose a resort close to your home (especially if it’s their first time). This way, the kids won’t be weary from the drive before they even hit the hill. • Bring a sled to carry your gear from the parking lot to the lodge. • Pack layers of warm clothing and don’t leave without sunscreen—UV rays reflecting off the snow can easily burn unprotected skin. • Remember to use the restrooms before heading up the mountain. • Decide on a gathering place to head to if you lose sight of each other. • Take regular breaks to rest, rehydrate and snack. SKIING IN NOVA SCOTIA Nova Scotia has three ski hills, each located in different areas of the province: Ben Eoin in Cape Breton, Ski Wentworth in the Wentworth Valley and Martock just outside Windsor. Martock: Located approximately 45 minutes outside Halifax off Highway 14 near Windsor, the resort’s facilities feature a downhill area served by a quad chair lift, two T-bars lifts, and two tow ropes to get up the 600-foot high mountain. There is a beginner’s area served by Magic Carpet, and 5.5km of cross-country ski trails. There is also night skiing, areas for snowboarding and snowshoeing, too. Rentals and repairs on site. Ski Wentworth: Approximately a half hour outside Truro on the way to Amherst, Ski Wentworth is located in the Wentworth Valley on an 815-feet high hill featuring 20 alpine trails, a 1/2 Pipe, terrain park, freestyle ski facilities. The hill is served by a quad chair, one T-bar lift and Magic Carpet. Night skiing is available on three trails. Rentals and repairs on site. Ski Ben Eoin: Now its 50th year, Ski Ben Eoin is operated by the Cape Breton Ski Club, featuring 14 trails (the newest one called the Groovy Goose) with a gorgeous view of the Bras D’or Lakes. Located on Route 4 in Ben Eoin the 500-foot hill is approximately a 20-minute drive from downtown Sydney and supports alpine and Nordic skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing served by a magic carpet and one chair lift. Night skiing available, rentals and repair on site.

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HOLIDAY LIVING

Will it or won’t it? Times are changing and so is the probability of a white Christmas

rom a probability of more than 80 per cent a half century ago, white Christmases are becoming fewer and farther between. Today, the percentage is about 40 to 60 per cent depending on where you live on the East Coast. (That is if you don’t live in St. John’s, NL, where it actually is more likely for you to have a white Christmas.) “There will come a time when a white Christmas will just be a memory of the past,” Environment Canada senior climatologist David Phillips said. “We’re nearing a point where the odds of a green Christmas will be greater than a white one.” Phillips said climate change is playing a huge role in warmer winters with less snowfall, especially around the Christmas period. “We have good records over 70 years. Where it has been slower to change has been in Atlantic Canada. It has been more pronounced in the west, like in Alberta and British Columbia, and in the north,” Phillips said. “Some people have suggested it’s because ice melting has cooled ocean waters so climate change has been slow to come to Atlantic Canada.” A white Christmas is defined as having at least two cm of snow on the ground Christmas morning. As much as climate is changing, Phillips said, people still have memories of the past that include frequent snowstorms throughout the winter and many white Christmases. While at one time it was very common to have at least 20 cm of snow on the ground on the morning of Dec. 25, today many areas of the Atlantic region are lucky if they have 10.

There will come a time when a white Christmas will just be a memory of the past. We’re nearing a point where the odds of a green Christmas will be greater than a white one.” — David Phillips, Senior Climatologist, Environment Canada Still, while trends are pointing toward milder winters, there are wildcards and there will be years when the weather will be cold and snowy during the holiday period. “This decade has proven there are periods when you wished you were somewhere else, but there have also been times when

it has been El Niño and you’re, like, bring it on,” he said. “The variability has increased but the overall trend has been for warmer. Doesn’t mean we can’t have a return to the winter of our youth but it’s something that’s becoming less so and there’s less of a possibility of it happening. It’s not zero.”

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FOOD & DRINK

Hot chocolate and eggnog: a holiday tradition Hot chocolate and eggnog are signature drinks of many holiday celebrations. Making your own and keeping it local is as easy as buying local eggs, cream and milk and mixing them with a little spirit. By Mark DeWolf

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FOOD & DRINK

Freshly Brewed Hot Chocolate SERVES 4 Ingredients: 2 oz unsweetened chocolate 2 cups milk 1 cups heavy cream 2 eggs 1/2 cup sugar 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 4 oz Coldstream Distillery Classic Coffee

In a double boiler over medium heat, melt chocolate. While chocolate is melting, in a heavy saucepan heat the milk and cream just until simmering. In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until pale yellow. Stir in vanilla extract and Coldstream Classic Coffee. Slowly, pour the hot milk and cream mixture into the melted chocolate and stir well. Whisking steadily, slowly pour the egg mixture into the chocolate cream. Serve garnished with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

White Hot Chocolate SERVES 4 Ingredients: 8 oz white chocolate, finely chopped 3/4 cup heavy cream 3 cups milk 1-1/2 tsp vanilla 4 oz Cabot Trail Cream

In a double boiler over medium heat, melt chocolate. While chocolate is melting, in a heavy saucepan heat the milk and cream just until simmering. Slowly, pour the hot milk and cream mixture into the melted chocolate and stir well. Stir in Cabot Trail Cream and blend until heated through.

A Brief History of Eggnog The etymology of the word eggnog is as clear as the drink itself. Some argue the ‘nog’ is in reference to the English word ‘noggin’ meaning small wooden mug while others on this side of the Atlantic argue the nog is derived from grog, a slang term for watered down rum, or nog meaning strong ale. While other’s suggest it was a shortened version of “egg and grog in a noggin.” Regardless of the origins of the name, few would argue the drink originated in medieval England and no one can deny its continuing popularity as a holiday treat. 13th century – English monks drink a concoction of milk curdled with ale and spices known as posset. Posset was drunk to fend of the flu or a cold. 17th century – a version of posset, known as Sack-Posset, made with cream, whole spices and Sack (Sherry) emerges. 17th century – versions of eggnog would often be used for toasts at celebratory occasions as the drink’s ingredients such as egg, milk, brandy and spices were luxuries enjoyed mostly by the wealthy. Early 18th century – American colonists drink a mixture of milk and Caribbean rum, as rum was less taxed and consequently cheaper than brandy or Sherry 18th century – George Washington is known for serving an eggnog-like drink to visitors. 19th century – south of the border whisky begins to overtake rum as the preferred spirit in eggnog

Italian Eggnog SERVES 4 Ingredients: 6 eggs 1/4 cup sugar 4 cups milk 1/2 tsp nutmeg 1/2 tsp cinnamon 4 oz Disaronno Amaretto Biscotti

In a large, heavy bottomed saucepan, beat together eggs and sugar. On medium heat, stir in 2 cups of the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture coats the back of a wooden spoon. Do not allow the mixture to boil. Remove from heat and stir in remaining 2 cups of milk, vanilla, nutmeg and cinnamon. Chill thoroughly. Just before serving, stir in Amaretto and serve accompanied with biscotti.

Bluenose Eggnog SERVES 4 Ingredients: 6 eggs 1/4 cup sugar 4 cups milk 1 tsp vanilla 1/4 tsp nutmeg 1/4 tsp cinnamon 4 oz Ironworks Bluenose Rum

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FOOD & DRINK

Game for a new holiday? It doesn’t always have to be turkey on your Christmas dinner table By Mark DeWolf

e almost all think of turkey when setting out a Christmas dinner menu, but past the nostalgic qualities there’s no reason to stick to tradition. Wouldn’t a roast chicken filled with stuffing and served with classic accompaniments be as satisfying as turkey? Or, why not gourmet it up a little by serving a game bird such as duck or pheasant. CORNISH HEN Cornish aren’t game birds. In reality, they are just small chickens. Maybe it’s a bit of personal nostalgia as I can still remember ordering these personal sized birds - they are usually between 1 1/2 and 2 pounds) at one of the limited number of fine dining experiences I enjoyed as a child. Cornish hens are the perfect size for one, or two, but it would also make for a little 80s chic to serve everyone their own individual Cornish hen with classic Christmas dinner accompaniments served on the side.

Glazed Cornish Hens with Hazelnut Cranberry Stuffing SERVES 8 Ingredients: 1 tbsp butter 1 small onion, chopped 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 tsp dried thyme 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper 1-1/2 cups long-grain rice 3 cups chicken stock 3/4 cup dried cranberries 1/3 cup finely chopped celery 1/3 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley 1 tbsp lemon juice 4 cornish hens (each 1-1/4 lb)

Cranberry Glaze Ingredients: 1/2 cup frozen cranberry cocktail concentrate, thawed 1/4 cup liquid honey 1 tsp each salt and pepper

Directions: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; add onion, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring, until softened, 3 minutes. Add rice; cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add stock; bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 25 minutes. Add cranberries, celery, hazelnuts, parsley and lemon juice; with fork, toss to combine. Let cool. Using kitchen shears or knife, cut wing tips off hens. Cut down each side of backbones; remove and reserve for stock. Trim off excess fat and skin; discard. Cut through centres of breastbones to divide in half. On greased rimmed baking sheet, evenly space eight 3/4-cup mounds of rice mixture. Place hen halves, cut side down, over mounds; arrange so that breasts are touching baking sheet and legs are angled over rice. Glaze: In bowl, stir together cranberry concentrate, honey, salt and pepper. Brush over hens. (Make-ahead: Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours.) Bake in 375°F (190°C) oven, basting twice with pan juices, until golden and juices run clear when thigh is pierced, 45 minutes.

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FOOD & DRINK DUCK In my household, there is a certain reverence for duck. And while we most often stick to the roast turkey dinner routine for Christmas, our New Year’s Eve dinner is celebrated with duck. It’s nearly impossible to find a whole duck, but it’s increasingly easy to find frozen duck legs. We usually go the confit route by braising them in duck fat but you if you want to pinch a couple pennies the legs themselves have a lot of fat in them so you can simply braise them in stock. Then again, you are sacrificing the pleasures of potatoes roasted in your left over duck fat.

PHEASANT I’ve only cooked pheasant a couple times in my life. Yet, the sheer thought of this robustly flavoured game bird instantly awakens my culinary senses. Rich and gamey, and typically large enough to serve a family of 4, roast pheasant is fantastic when accompanied by earthy, smoky sides. Wild mushrooms, smoky bacon and fragrant herbs such as sage are just a few of the flavours that I recommend sharing the holiday table with roast pheasant. Try this recipe for mushroom risotto to go along with your roast pheasant feast.

Duck Confit

Fragrant Mushroom Risotto

SERVES 6-8

Ingredients: 3 tbsp course kosher or sea salt 4 cloves garlic, crushed 1 shallot, peeled and sliced 1 orange sliced 4 bay leaves 1 tsp pickling juniper berries 6 sprigs thyme 4 duck legs with thighs 4 cups duck fat Coarsely ground black pepper

Ingredients: 3 cups wild local mushrooms, cleaned and sliced 3 tbsp unsalted butter 1 shallot, minced 1 clove garlic, minced 1 cup white wine 3 tbsp olive oil 3 cups Arborio or Canaroli rice 8 cups stock 1/4 cup grated Parmesan Sea salt to taste Pepper to taste Drizzle truffle oil

Directions: Toss the duck legs in a bowl with everything except the fat. Once all of the legs are nicely coated place them in a glass container skin side up. Cover and refrigerate for one day. Preheat your oven to 225°F. Melt the duck fat in a small saucepan. Shake the seasoning mix off of the duck legs. Arrange the duck pieces in a single snug layer in a deep ovenproof saucepot. Pour the melted fat over the duck (the duck must be covered by fat) and place the pot in the oven. Cook the duck slowly at a light simmer until the duck is tender and can be easily pulled from the bone, 2-3 hours. Remove the confit from the oven. Cool and store the duck in the fat. Re-use your duck fat after straining for frying potatoes, roasting root vegetables or meat or making more confit.

Directions: Sauté the mushrooms in butter with shallots and garlic until golden brown. Deglaze the pan with a bit of the white wine and set aside. Start the risotto by adding the olive to a pan over medium heat. Add the rice and stir constantly. When the rice kernels have little eyes, add the remaining white wine. Stir the rice until the wine is absorbed and then add hot chicken stock a ladle at a time. Stir constantly and test for texture. The rice should be creamy, but have a little firmness. When you achieve the desired texture, add the reserved mushrooms, the remaining butter and the grated Parmesan cheese. Season the risotto with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve warm and drizzle with truffle oil for a final touch.

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A visit to Berwick …should be at the ‘core’ of your holiday season! Our Holiday Celebrations have always set the stage for a wonderful season in Berwick. From free skates to the parade ...it’s all here! Shop, dine, visit & enjoy! Join us for the fun and festivities of our annual...

Holiday Season Kick Off Weekend! Friday, November 24th ~ ‘Black Friday’ sales, Tree Lighting and Entertainment from 6 to 7:30 at Town Hall. Join us for holiday music with the band “Swig”, hot apple cider and treats. Story time & crafts for the children 6:30 - 7 at the Library.

Saturday, November 25th ~ Breakfast with Santa and his elves at the Legion from 9:30 to 11:30. Lunch at the South Berwick Hall from 11:30 to 1, a free skate with the Wildcats from 11:45 to 12:45, Cupcake Decorating and Crafts for the kids from 1 to 3, and a Chili Supper at the Anglican Church. Then enjoy the Magical Santa Claus Parade starting at 6:30 pm!

Sunday, November 26th ~ Check out the Farmers Market, Wagon Rides with healthy treats and a marshmallow roast at the United Church Camp, Ticket Auction & Tea at the Legion from 12 to 2 pm.

For full details follow the Town of Berwick on Facebook or call 902.538.8068 #berwicktothecore tidingsns.ca •

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FOOD & DRINK

Gourmet gifts for your special chef Alternative options fit for your favourite foodie By Mark DeWolf

f you can’t bear the idea of gifting another tie, pair of gloves, or holiday sweater, why not give something they will truly enjoy? This season fill their souls and their bellies with these gifts mingling ideas for the culinarian, wine, beer and spirit lover alike. The gift of a culinary experience Bedford’s Kitchen Door Catering (kitchendoor.ca), Summerville’s The Flying Apron (flyingaproncookery.com) and Pictou County based Alain Bossé, better known as The Kilted Chef (kiltedchef.ca) all offer unique and personal cooking class options. Fill out the present with a cookbook, such as Craig Flinn’s Out of Nova Scotia Kitchens (formac.ca). A tour-iffic gift Join them if you can, but if you can’t buy then a gift certificate to any one of the number of food and drink focused tours now available in province. Go North Tours (gonorthtours.com) and Grape Escapes (novascotiawinetours.com) offer tours to wine country while Taste Halifax Food Tours (halifaxfoodtours.com) offers a trifecta of great flavour experiences with their food, wine and beer tour options. Add the gift certificate to a basket of local products (tasteofnovascotia.com). Something old fashioned Spirit and cocktail aficionados love a great Old Fashioned cocktail. Your local NSLC is stocked with a selection of great Canadian whiskies including Nova Scotia’s own Glenora (glenoradistillery.com), Caldera (caldera.ca) and GLYNNEVAN (authenticseacoast.com). The latter’s Triple Barreled version lends a spicy kick to this cocktail classic. Don’t forget to add the bitters, a vital ingredient in Old Fashioned. A select number of NSLC stores now carry bitters. To complete the package add a whisky tumbler from Nova Scotian Crystal. There’s something utterly nostalgic, Mad Men-like, about enjoying an Old Fashioned in a glass that is as bold, heavy and complex as the drink. To make an Old Fashioned, soak a sugar cube in 2 to 3 dashes of bitters. Add a splash of water and muddle until the sugar is dissolved. Top with 2 fluid ounces of whisky. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.

Thanks a brunch Give them the ingredients for a gourmet brunch and the promise of your company over the holidays. Local smoked salmon such as President’s Choice from the Superstore — it’s locally made and delicious — plus some cured meats from Halifax’s Ratinaud (ratinaud.ca), a locally roasted coffee (Anchored Coffee, anchoredcoffee.com) and a fine traditional method sparkling wine such as Benjamin Bridge Brut or L’Acadie Vineyards Vintage Cuvée Rosé (lacadievineyards.ca) all make for the promise of a great holiday brunch.

A taste of exclusivity Local wines are in such high demand that a few wineries have launched private wine clubs giving these clients first chance to buy bottles of their best including small lots offering. Benjamin Bridge (benjaminbridge.com), Domaine de Grand Pré (grandprewines.ns.ca) and Lightfoot & Wolfville (lightfootandwolfvillewines.com) offer a taste of exclusivity via their wine club offerings. A membership would be a prized gift for the wine lovers on your list.

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FOOD & DRINK

Open year round in the

EASTSIDE PLAZA-BRIDGEWATER

Toast of the season

Come celebrate with

Champagne and sparkling wine cocktails By Mark DeWolf

Poinsettia

SERVES 1

o some purists, the mixing of Champagne with anything might seem unthinkable. Why mess with perfection? So, if you simply cannot bring yourself to add anything to Champagne, the NSLC has a number of delightful sparkling wine options that are easier on the pocketbook compared to Champagne, and when used with other liqueurs and ingredients are almost Champagneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s equal.

Cherry Delight SERVES 1 Ingredients: 1 fl oz cherry brandy 1 1/2 fl oz sweet vermouth 3 fl oz chilled orange juice 1 tsp simple syrup Sparkling wine Orange slice

Directions: Pour ingredients, except sparkling wine, into a large stemmed glass filled with ice. Stir gently. Top with sparkling wine. Garnish with a slice of orange.

Ingredients: 1/2 fl oz Cointreau 1 fl oz cranberry juice 1 tsp lime juice 5 ounces sparkling wine

Directions: In a flute combine first three ingredients. Top with sparkling wine.

Lemon Drop Sparkling Punch SERVES 6-8 Ingredients: 3 lemons, room temperature 1/2 cup sugar 1 bottle sparkling wine, chilled 3/4 cup vodka, chilled Candied lemon peels Frozen Cranberries

Directions: With a vegetable peeler, remove zest from each lemon in a long, continuous spiral. Juice lemons, and strain pulp. Set aside. Heat sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar has dissolved. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat. Add zest. Let syrup cool completely, about 2 hours. Pour sparkling wine, vodka, lemon juice, and syrup into a punch bowl; stir. Serve glasses of punch with candied peels and a few frozen cranberries.

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LOCAL GIFT GUIDE

The winning ticket Experiential gift ideas for the person who has everything

f you have no idea what to give people this Christmas, how about offering them tickets? That’s right, tickets! But what kind of tickets? Well, there are all sorts of different ones; there is something to suit everyone on your gift list. For sports enthusiasts Many adults and children are sports lovers. Hockey, baseball, tennis, boxing, figure skating — there are as many possibilities as there are exciting sports. You’re sure to find tickets to suit your favourite sports fan. Ideas: For basketball fans, the NBL Halifax Hurricanes or Cape Breton Highlanders game would be the right ticket. The U Sports Men’s Final 8 Basketball tournament will also be held at the Scotiabank Centre in Halifax from March 8 to 11. For hockey fans, how about a Halifax Mooseheads or Cape Breton Screaming Eagles home game? For music fans There’s nothing like a great concert

to make a music fan happy. You probably already know the groups or favourite artists of your loved ones, so all you have to do is find a show that will be put on in your area and buy some tickets before they all disappear. Ideas: Here are just a few headliners you may want to check out: Tom Cochrane is coming to Casino Nova Scotia on Dec. 31, 2017. Matt Mays and July Talk will be at the Scotiabank Centre Jan. 20. For country fans, Gord Bamford will be at Casino Nova Scotia Feb. 10. Also, did you know that tickets are already on sale for the Stan Rogers Music Festival in Canso, July 27 to 29. For generous hearts For all those who like to help people, tickets to a benefit concert or charity gala could be the perfect gift during the Christmas season. Ideas: A donation to a local organization, such as Feed Nova Scotia or the SPCA,

can mean a merrier holiday for many. For art lovers A trip to the theatre to enjoy a comedy or a drama, a classical or modern ballet, a grand opera, a symphony concert — there’s definitely something for everyone! Ideas: Consider Symphony Nova Scotia offers concert series tickets, like rock tributes or Broadway hits. Looking for theatre? Centre 200 will host Beauty and the Beast on Feb. 4. For those with Lady Luck on their side Why not a lottery ticket? It’s always fun and who knows, you may be offering someone a gift of enormous value. There are all kinds of tickets from scratch to bigger lotteries. You can even pick up a Christmas bundle. Ideas: You can support local lotteries as well with IOUs for initiatives like the QEII Home Lottery or Cape Breton’s YMCA’s YLotto.

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LOCAL GIFT GUIDE

10 truly Nova Scotian books perfect for gift-giving this season As winter nights approach, curl up with a good (and local!) book The nymph and the Lamp by Thomas Raddall

By Cynthia McMurray

ooks are always a safe bet for gift giving. This holiday season, we are selecting a few new books and some that are not necessarily new, but have been chosen as some of the 150 Nova Scotian books that have defined or influenced us over the years. As part of the Canada 150 celebration, Nova Scotia Public Libraries, in collaboration with readers and librarians, have chosen books that are truly Nova Scotian, highlighting our wonderful “writers and citizens, ideas and attitudes, culture and environment, stories and treasures.” So, whether you want to gift the book or read it yourself, here are some great titles to consider … Rise Again! The Story of Cape Breton Island by Robert Morgan (Adult Non-fiction)

Renowned historian, archivist, and teacher, Robert Morgan, fully detailed Cape Breton’s history from its geological roots to Mi’kmaq life before discovery, the planting of French Louisbourg, and the island’s first economic boom. Morgan takes the reader through the 19th Century and sees Cape Breton as a new home for the Acadians, the Irish and the Scottish, preparing the ground for the second economic boom as world markets were found for Cape Breton’s coal and then steel industries. This unique book is the best full history of Cape Breton Island ever written and is the perfect gift for history junkies. Published by Breton Books $21.95

(Adult Fiction)

The Little Tree by the Sea: From Halifax to Boston with Love by John DeMont and illustrated by Belle DeMont (Children’s Illustrated)

On Dec. 6, 1917, two ships collided in wartime Halifax Harbour, creating what became the largest man made explosion of its time. More than 2,000 people died (500 of those children) and 9,000 were injured. A single little tree whispered from its branches the word “Help” that was carried by the wind to the people of Boston. Within 48 hours Boston and Massachusetts organized trains to carry 33 doctors and 79 nurses. To repay the City of Boston for its generosity, the little tree (which now had become huge and majestic tree) was given to the city of Boston as a way to say thank you, a tradition that continues to this day. Published by MacIntyre Purcell Publishing $17.95

Set in 1920s Nova Scotia, this book is the perfect mix of quaint Maritime culture and a beautiful romance between two unlikely characters. Raddall captures the beauty and desolation of a fictitious Sable Island, a bustling 1920s Halifax and the sprawling farmland of the Annapolis valley in this classic story that quickly became one of Canada’s best-selling books. Although it was first published in the 1950s, it remains an iconic representation of Nova Scotia literature. Published by Nimbus Publishing $18.95

The Promised Land: a Novel of Cape Breton by Bill Conall (Adult Fiction)

In 1970, a group of hippies crosses the Canso Causeway to begin a new back-to-the-land life in Cape Breton. Grubby, scrawny and broke, they are not unlike the original Scottish immigrants of the 1800s. Their several adventures culminate in the famous Hippies’ Ceilidh, which is still a subject of conversation today. Then, 40 years later, a young Ellen Coulter takes up her first doctoring job at a small clinic in Baddeck, and gradually settles in to life in the little village. The Promised Land is, first and foremost, a story of community; of people of all ages and backgrounds in all their human glory, complete with laughter, tears and downright foolishness. Awarded the 2014 Stephen Leacock Memorial Medal for Humour.

Viola Desmond Won’t Be Budged by Jody Nyasha Warner Illustrated by Richard Rudnicki (Children’s Non-fiction)

This book was a finalist for the 2011 Norma Fleck Award for Canadian Children’s Non-Fiction. It tells the story of Viola Desmond, who in 1946, was told by an usher in a movie theatre to move from her main-floor seat up to the balcony. She refused and was eventually charged and fined by police, but she vowed to continue her struggle against such unfair rules. Like Claudette Colvin and Rosa Parks, who many years later, in 1955, refused to give up their bus seats in Alabama, Desmond’s act of refusal awakened people to racism and began and process of bringing an end to racial segregation in Canada. An afterword provides a glimpse of African Canadian history. Published by Groundwood Books $18.95

Published by Boularderie Island Press $19.95

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LOCAL GIFT GUIDE as Old Man Stevens and dates from 1884. Both are among the earliest examples of Indigenous Canadian literature recorded in their original language; the 1847 transcript being perhaps the earliest. Their publication in The Stone Canoe makes a significant contribution to our understanding of Mi’kmaq storytelling and indigenous Canadian literature.

Then and Now: Photographs of Nova Scotia by Wallace MacAskill and Len Wagg

Published by Gaspereau Press $29.95

(Adult Non-fiction)

Shattered City: The Halifax Explosion and the Road to Recovery by Janet Kitz

Twenty-Six by Leo McKay Jr. (Adult Fiction)

(Adult Non-fiction)

This book is the most comprehensive ever written on the Halifax Explosion. It details the massive devastation, the aftermath and the restoration and encompasses dozens of previously unpublished stories, photographs and documents, along with some thought-provoking coverage of the legal inquiry into the disaster. A best selling book from its first printing in 1989, the new edition has an updated cover and is sure to be a musthave for readers. Published by Nimbus Publishing $22.95

The Stone Canoe: Two Lost Mi’kmaq Texts by Elizabeth Paul, Peter Sanger, illustrated by Alan Syliboy (Adult Non-fiction)

In 2003, poet and essayist Peter Sanger uncovered two manuscripts among the Rand holdings in the library at Acadia University in Wolfville, N.S. One of these contains the story of Little Thunder and his journey to find a wife, as told to Rand by Susan Barss in 1847. The other is the story of a woman who survives alone on an island after being abandoned by her husband. It was told by a storyteller known to us now only

Rockbound by Frank Parker Day (Adult Fiction)

The classic novel of Nova Scotia’s South Shore, it is enormously evocative of the power, terror, and dramatic beauty of the Atlantic sea, and unrelenting in its portrait of back-breaking labour, cunning bitterness and family strife. Rockbound is a story of many passions — love, pride, greed, and yearning — all formed and buffeted on a small island by an unyielding wind and the rocky landscape of the human spirit. Roockbound won Canada Reads in 2005.

Published by University of Toronto Press. $31.95

By acclaimed author of Like This, a finalist for the Giller Prize, Leo McKay Jr.’s bestselling novel is set in a small Nova Scotia town, where a family is changed forever after a devastating mining accident claims the lives of 26 men. As the story shifts back and forth in time and between characters, we meet the men and women of the Burrows family: brothers Ziv and Arvel, drawn to the mine for different reasons; their father, a former union organizer; Ziv’s ex-girlfriend, now living in Japan and Arvel’s wife, who hopes for a better life for herself in the city. In the aftermath of the explosion, and as the investigation into its causes unfolds, the members of the Burrows family are forced to confront each other – and themselves – bringing the novel to its moving and redemptive conclusion. Written in spare, hard-hitting prose, and inspired in part by the Westray mining disaster, Twenty-Six is a novel of universal human struggle and understanding that evokes in all its drama and pathos a community transformed by tragedy.

Wallace MacAskill (18871956) is one of Nova Scotia’s foremost photographers, lauded for his portraits of seascapes, sailing and fishing ships and picturesque landscapes. In this remarkable collection of then and now photographs, Len Wagg follows in the footsteps of 50 of MacAskill’s best shots, recreating them in colour contemporary portraits. Through sideby-side comparisons, readers see how much has changed, and how much has remained the same. Included are urban streetscapes, important events and monuments and spectacular scenery from around the province — Halifax to Louisbourg, Chester to Pictou. The 100 photographs in this book are captioned with short anecdotes conveying the significance of the images and the process of finding the location for some of MacAskill’s original work. Published by Nimbus Publishing $29.95

Published by Emblem Editions $19.99

tidingsns.ca •

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LOCAL GIFT GUIDE

From the Maritimes, with love Locally-sourced gifts to send your homesick loved ones By Colleen Thompson

hether you’re travelling away this holiday season to see friends and family or simply want to send a homesick Nova Scotian a gift to remind them of home, choose something that reconnects them with their province in a new and unique way. Sure you could travel over to surprise them … But in the likely chance that you can’t afford to do so, here are some little reminders that say, “I miss you” and “Wish you were home.” The criteria for the list are that the gifts are thoughtful, beautiful, Nova Scotian made and lightweight enough to carry in your luggage or send by mail.

Rug Hooking Kits From her rug-hooking studio in downtown Amherst, Deanne Fitzpatrick transforms old clothes and pieces of wool into works of art. Hand drawn patterns depicting Maritime life are hand recreated onto burlap and tucked into little kits containing everything you need to teach yourself to hook rugs. Each kit contains a pattern, wool, instructions and colour key. $39.95 www.hookingrugs.com

New Scotland Clothing Company Family, friends, music and home is what’s important to Dartmouth-based founders and brothers Kevin and Scott Saccary. It’s what pushes them to create and curate new traditions that are reflected in their clothing that combines their passion for style, music and curling. Their unique and original apparel consists of everything from T-shirts to hoodies, baring their signature lion crest and promoting their slogan “Share your Pride. Wear Your Roots. Look out for their holiday pop-up store at Halifax Shopping Centre. www.newscotlandclothing.ca

Bad Mouth Soap Handcrafted, small batch soaps with mostly organic and vegan ingredients and a good dose of East Coast humour. $6.50

All For Knot Nova Scotia artisan Angela Worsley and owner of All For Knot Rope Weaving has a passion for the wild North Atlantic, which she shares with many who call the Maritimes home. Using traditional basket weaving techniques, her bowls come in a range of nautical colours. www.allforknot.ca

Aflame Creations Colourful enamelled copper jewellery, handmade in Halifax by designer Megan Archer of Aflame Jewellery Design. The quote on the pendant says, “In one drop of water are found all the secrets of all the oceans.” The pendant is 2” and includes an 18” stainless steel chain. Aflame can be found upstairs at the Halifax Seaport Farmer’s Market. $44

The Glass Bakery Cara Wedgbrow based in Mill Cove, NS is the artisan behind the Glass Bakery. Each of her pieces is handcrafted from layers of fused glass that are textured with a sandlike grit. Inspired by the ocean, she has produced a series of whimsical shorebirds. $35 www.glassartnovascotia.ca

Seastar Pottery Iris Patterson is a potter based in Three Fathom Harbour where daily life spent on the beach and snorkelling in and around the coves is where she gets her inspiration for her unique handcrafted stoneware. Each jellyfish mug is a one of kind piece of art. $38 www.seastarpottery.com

www.aflamecreations.ca

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LOCAL GIFT GUIDE

Shop at home for the holidays What do you send someone to remind them of home?

uying local not only makes your life easier, but also helps stimulate the regional economy. With the holiday season fast approaching, here are a few great reasons to do all of your Christmas shopping close to home.

boutique at the corner of the street, now’s the time to do so. Who knows, you might make some amazing discoveries.

Christmas markets Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover the work of talented local artists, Less distance, greater fuel savings entrepreneurs and craftspeople, who set Shopping at neighbourhood stores goes a up shop each year in these festive marketlong way toward minimizing greenhouse gas places. Jewellery, clothing, accessories, emissions. The holiday season is all about decorations, toys, soaps, chocolates, giving, so why not give back to the planet as sculptures, books, paintings — hundreds well? Furthermore, try to do your Christmas of unique, carefully crafted goods are shopping on foot as much as possible. After waiting to be discovered. all, walking is excellent exercise! Local vendors, superior service Take advantage of local business owners’ Local shops, unlimited selection expert knowledge when buying that perfect Clothing boutiques, art galleries, spas, Christmas gift for your friend or family candy stores, bookstores — you’ll certainly member. These friendly merchants are find something to please everyone on your committed to offering the highest quality list by shopping local. Psst! If you’ve always of service to their loyal customers. After all, wanted to check out that quaint little

your patronage is part of the reason they’re still in business. What’s more, keep in mind that returning and exchanging items is much simpler when you do business close to home. Bought the wrong size? Noticed a defect? Your local business owner can have the problem solved in a no time! Quality products, fair prices Have you noticed that certain products are slightly more expensive in smaller, local shops? Well, think about it: is it really worth driving to another community, looking for parking in crowded lots and racking up mileage just to save a few dollars? Logic states that you have everything to gain from shopping local. Remember: when you support small businesses, you contribute to the local economy and generate positive change in your community. With time, new businesses will pop up, infrastructure will evolve and greener spaces will abound.

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GIVE THE GIFT OF TRAVEL RESERVE BY NOVEMBER 30TH

28-DAY AUSTRALIA & SOUTHEAST ASIA PREMIUM CRUISETOUR FEBRUARY 8TH – MARCH 7TH, 2019

• 20-Day cruise aboard Norwegian Jewel sailing from Sydney to Singapore with ports of call in Newcastle, Brisbane, Airlie Beach, Cairns (overnight) & Darwin (overnight) Australia; Komodo Island, Semarang & Bali (overnight) Indonesia • Return airfare from the Maritimes to Sydney, return from Singapore with 2 overnight stopovers in Vancouver • 6N Accommodations; 2N Pier One Sydney Harbour, a Marriott Autograph Collection Property (pre-cruise) in Sydney; 2N Marriott Tang Plaza (post-cruise) in Singapore; 2N Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel • Welcome Dinner & professionally-guided tour; Sydney • Farewell Dinner & professionally-guided tour; Singapore • Breakfast, lunch & dinner daily during cruise • 2 Private At-Sea Group Cocktail Receptions & 4 Onboard Group Dinners • All port & government taxes included • Baggage handling at hotels (1 per person) • Services of an experienced Collins Tours cruise & tour manager

SAVE UP TO $2000/CPL

+ALL-INCLUSIVE CRUISE TOUR: ULTIMATE BEVERAGE PACKAGE & SHIPBOARD GRATUITIES INCLUDED

13-DAY BALTIC SEA & RUSSIA EXPLORER CRUISETOUR SEPTEMBER 11TH – 23RD, 2018

• Flights from Maritimes (most cities included, please inquire) roundtrip to Copenhagen, Denmark • 2 nights accommodations (pre-cruise) in Copenhagen, Denmark • 1/2 day guided city tour of Copenhagen • 3 Group dinners on board Cruise • Free St. Petersburg Russia Excursion! Valued at $175 per person • 1 Group dinner in Copenhagen, Denmark (pre-cruise) • 1 private cocktail reception at sea • Airport to hotel, hotel to pier & pier to airport transfers • 9-Night Baltic Capitals cruise on Norwegian Breakaway • Welcome Reception in Copenhagen with drinks included

SAVE UP TO $1500/CPL

+CABIN UPGRADES AVAILABLE +ALL-INCLUSIVE CRUISE TOUR: ULTIMATE

Dbl

Inside Cabin

5,795 PP PP 5,395 taxes incl.

Dbl $

NOVEMBER 26TH – DECEMBER 2ND & DECEMBER 3RD – 9TH, 2018

• Return premium motorcoach from most Maritime cities • 6N Accommodations; 2N Residence Inn by Marriott, Portland ME & 4N Sheraton Times Square, New York City • 4 meals: 2 group dinners, 2 breakfasts in Maine • Tickets to a HOT Broadway musical: Show TBA • Ticket to Radio City Music Hall’s Christmas Spectacular starring The Rockettes • Half-day guided tour of New York City (Manhattan & Brooklyn Lights) • Ticket to One World Trade Center’s (Ground Zero) Tallest Building in Western Hemisphere! • 2-Hour Evening “Christmas Lights Illumination” Tour of Brooklyn • World-class shopping opportunities • All taxes and surcharges • Services of an experienced Collins Tours Tour Manager $ PP Dbl with you every step of the way! • Baggage handling fees (one bag per person) $ Dbl PP

2,745 2,495 taxes incl.

15-DAY SWISS ALPS, VENICE & GREEK ISLANDS CRUISETOUR

• Flights from Maritimes (most cities included inquire within) SEATS LEFT to Zurich, Switzerland, returning from Venice, Italy • 6N Premium Hotel Accommodations; 2N Sheraton Zurich, 2N Hotel Regina Palace, Stresa, Italy & 2N Splendid Venice Hotel • 1/2 day guided tour of Zurich • 1/2-day guided tour of Venice (St. Mark’s Cathedral, Doges Palace, Bridge of Sighs then water taxi to Murano Isl. for glass-blowing demonstration for famed Murano crystal) • Cruise on Lake Maggiore straddling the Italian and Swiss border • 6 Group dinners included: 1 Zurich, 1 Stressa, 1 Venice, 3 on board ship • Premium Motorcoach transportation. All transfers included in destination • All meals included onboard Norwegian Star (B, L, D) • 1 private cocktail reception at sea Inside Cabin • 6 hot buffet breakfasts (pre-cruise) $ PP • 8-Day Adriatic Cruise from Venice aboard Norwegian Dbl Star to Dubrovnik, Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro & $ Dbl PP Mykonos, Corfu & Santorini, Greece taxes incl. • Prepaid NCL gratuities and Unlimited Beverage Package ge

6,095 5,895

303 WESTMORLAND RD., SAINT JOHN, NB E2H 1W6

COLLINSTOURS.CA tidings_2017_NS.indd 31

Dbl $

CABIN UPGRADES AVAILABLE

16 DAY COUNTRY CHRISTMAS TOUR

FEAT. NASHVILLE, BRANSON, MEMPHIS, PIGEON FORGE, GETTYSBURG & AMISH COUNTRY

CABIN UPGRADES AVAILABLE

• Return luxury motor coach from the Maritimes • 28 meals: 15 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 10 dinners • 15 nights of premium accommodations: 1N Portland ME, 1N Bensalem/ Philadelphia PA, 1N Somerset PA, 1N Terre Haute IN, 2N Branson MO, 1N Memphis TN, 3N Nashville, 2N Pigeon Forge TN, 1N Gettysburg PA, 1N Hartford CT & 1N Bangor ME • Guided tours: Amish Country, Branson, Memphis, Nashville, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Site of The Battle of Gettysburg • Self-guided audio tour of Graceland, Elvis Presley’s Mansion • and dancing at the Wild Horse Saloon, Nashville’s #1 entertainment terttain ainment venue e • Ticket to Grand Ole Opry in the Rhyman Auditorium (musical acts not yet announced) $ PP Dbl • Admission to the Country Music Hall of Fame much more! Dbl $ PP

3,995 3,645

SAVE $700/CPL

taxes incl.

8-DAY AMERICAN THANKSGIVING IN NEW YORK & BOSTON NOVEMBER 18TH – 25TH, 2018

• Return deluxe motorcoach transportation from the Maritimes • 7N Accommodations; 2N Residence Inn by Marriott, Portland ME, 1N Boston Colonnade Hotel & 4N Sheraton Times Square, New York City • 6 meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 group dinners • 3 half-day guided tours: NYC (Manhattan and Brooklyn) & another in Boston • Ticket to top Broadway musical (show TBA) • Ticket to Radio City Music Hall’s Christmas Spectacular starring The Rockettes • Ticket Included for World Trade Observation Centre • Opportunity to view world renowned Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade • World class shopping opportunities including Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue and more! $ PP • All taxes and surcharges Dbl • Services of an experienced Tour Director from $ Dbl Collins Tours PP

2,895 2,645 taxes incl.

SAVE $500/CPL

SEPTEMBER 23RD – OCTOBER 7TH, 2017

SAVE UP TO $1200/CPL

9,995 PP PP 9,495 taxes incl.

OCTOBER 24 – NOVEMBER 8TH, 2018 & OCT 29TH – NOV 13TH, 2018

7-DAY CHRISTMAS LIGHTS OF NEW YORK CITY

SAVE $500/CPL

Inside Cabin

Dbl

14-DAY LUXURY OCEANIA MEDITERRANEAN CRUISETOUR OCTOBER 7TH – 20TH, 2018

• Flight from the Maritimes to Barcelona & Rome to the Maritimes • 2N premium accommodation (pre-cruise) in Barcelona, Spain at the 4* Crowne Plaza Barcelona • 3N premium accommodation (post-cruise) in Rome, Italy at the 4* Rome Times Hotel • 8-Day cruise from Barcelona, Spain to Rome, Italy aboard the fabulous Oceania Nautica with ports of call in: Palma de Mallorca SPAIN, Provence (Marseille) FRANCE, Monte Carlo MONACO, Ajaccio (Corsica) FRANCE, Cinque Terre (La Spezia) ITALY & Florence/Pisa/Tuscany (Livorno) ITALY • Half-day professionally guided city tours of Barcelona & Rome • Welcome Dinner in Barcelona • Buffet breakfast daily (pre & post cruise) Oceanview Stateroom • Farewell dinner in Rome $ • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily during cruise PP Dbl

SAVE UP TO $200/CPL

6,650 PP 6,600 taxes incl.

Dbl $

+PREPAID GRATUITIES INCLUDED +CHOICE OF FREE BEVERAGE PACKAGE OR 2 FREE SHORE EXCURSIONS INCLUDED OR $200 SHIPBOARD CREDIT PER PERSON

1-888636-8080 2017-11-08 10:56 AM

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