Sidney SeniorCare knows that there are more important gifts to give than those wrapped in festive packages. Let’s spread some comfort and joy to our seniors in the spirit of the season, and make their holiday brighter this year. We can help you do that with in-home support and flexible services that will ensure a better quality of life no matter what the time of year.
• personal care
• meal prep • shopping
• housekeeping & laundry • medications
• companionship & respite care
• transportation & customized outings
• hourly, overnights & live-ins ... and any other service that you may require.
YOUR DENTIST IN SIDNEY
Festival of Trees 2024 Festival of Trees 2024
From November 16th to December 23rd, come experience the magic as these Holiday masterpieces light up our lobby. Grab a friend or loved one and join us for this festive showcase of 12 unique Christmas trees, each decorated by a local business Bring a can of food or a cash donation for the Saanich Peninsula Food Bank to cast your vote for your favourite tree Each donation and vote increases your chances to win a free stay at The Sidney Pier Hotel!
In This Issue
DECEMBER 2024
CYDNEY HELLIER GRAY PAGE 33
I am always excited to bring an ethnic or international flair to events in my home, and I hope you might as well! We can always learn cultural traditions and explore yummy foods from around the globe. I hope you can delve into an exotic dish from afar this year!
MATT HALL PAGE 39
When you start your career as a biologist, you can't help but take an ecological view when designing gardens. Combine that with a love of birding, gardening for our feathered friends has become a passion for me. That said: it's 90% about watching backyard birds with my family.
TIM MALONEY PAGE 67
Growing up on the bald prairie, I learned that to get things done, one had to step in. Being asked to share my fashion sense was questionable. However, I hope my motto – "have hope, take risks and seek harmony, but above all be kind" – builds a fashionable community right here.
LINDSAY NEAL PAGE 36
Rental car or runners? Exploring Lisbon may be best suited for those who are keen on lacing up … and walking up, and up, and up. The magic of Lisbon is waiting in its alleyways and cobblestone stairwells. Getting lost on foot is the best way to see this stunning city.
CONTRIBUTORS
Jo Barnes, Natalie Bobrowich, Tom Dai, Don Descoteau, Connie Dunwoody, Kelly Finerty, Natalie Foofat, Maxwell Gauthier, Tabatha Golat, Cydney Hellier Gray, Sherrin Griffin, Matt Hall, Sheila Henn, Janice Henshaw, Jesse Holth, Richard Hope, Tasleem Jessani, Tina Kelly, Jackie LaPlante, Tim Maloney, Pamela Martin, Delia McRae, Lindsay Neal, Jayne Nelson, Jacqueline Nicoll, Cassidy Nunn, Deborah Rogers, Joan Saunders, Marita Schauch, Jessica Sommers, Katharina Stocker
To find Seaside Magazine near you, visit www.seasidemagazine.ca/get/
Get Seaside direct to your door; email news@seasidemagazine.ca for subscription details
Seaside Magazine is printed 12 times a year by Mitchell Press. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Reproduction requests may be made to the editor or publisher via the above means. Views of contributors do not necessarily reflect the policy or views of the publisher and editor. Staff of the magazine cannot be held responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.
We acknowledge and thank the W̱SÁNEĆ people on whose traditional territory we live and work.
First Word from the Publisher
Sue Hodgson
I'm feeling so grateful these days. At a recent dinner, we were discussing the topic of gratefulness and someone asked: "Should you celebrate the holidays even if you don't feel grateful?" I stumbled over the question. At the time, I believed one should feel grateful in order to give thanks. To do anything else seemed somewhat dishonest or insincere. It's best to be emotionally authentic, right?
But for many people, gratitude is difficult because life is difficult. Even beyond deprivation and depression, there are many ordinary circumstances in which gratitude doesn't come easy. For me, it's the daily moments of reflection and thankfulness for the people and events that have happened, and are presently in, my life. Sometimes people cross your path and you know right away they are meant to be there. They serve some purpose, teach you a lesson or help you figure out who you are or who you want to become. You never know who those people may be – your son, roommate, neighbour, long-lost friend or even a complete stranger. Without all these tests, life would be like a smooth paved, straight flat road to nowhere: safe and comfortable but dull and pointless.
Sometimes things happen to us: at the time they might seem horrible, painful and unfair but upon reflection, you realize that by overcoming these obstacles you find your potential, strength, willpower and heart. A life of kindness and gratitude is powerful and when applied to oneself and the community around you, the world is a better place and the results are extraordinary!
This is our last issue of 2024, and so it is only fitting that I pause to express gratitude for your readership and support. The entire Seaside family works hard to publish our magazine and on behalf of all of us, thank you.
2025 will look a little different for Seaside as we are working on a few surprises; so keep a sharp eye out for the January 2025 issue!
Best of the season to everyone. SeasideSue
Photo by Janis Jean. Clothing provided and styled by Moden Boutique.
Holmes, Mark Rice and Eric Smith
A Dedicated Team Committed to Care
After five decades of devoted service at Saanich Peninsula Hospital, it’s time to upgrade the Acute Care Unit to reflect the quality of care the staff there provide every day.
Anyone in our community could need the specialized health support provided in our SPH Acute Care Unit. When there, they will be cared for by a multi-disciplinary team that includes physicians and nurses, but also health care aides, respiratory therapists, physiotherapists, liaison nurses, pharmacists and other specialists. Patients will also see members of the housekeeping and food services teams, our friendly porters, and they might use medical imaging or lab services.
On any day in the Acute Care Unit at Saanich Peninsula Hospital you will see staff working collaboratively. They make the best use of
Every member of the team at Saan Pen, meets each shift with dedication and determination to ensure a caring patient journey.
the available space, but the unit wasn’t built with current medical practice in mind. Staff are excited about the differences that a renovation of the Acute Care Unit will bring.
Our SPH ACU Clinical Leaders know the impact the renovation will have for patients and staff:
• Improved patient safety
• Improved infection control measures
• Increased staff satisfaction
• Increased patient satisfaction, privacy, and comfort
• Supporting nurses to meet medication administration standards of practice.
With your help we can transform the Acute Care Unit for the better!
wine actually
It's the most wonderful time of the year! Christmas is less than a month away, the air is cool and crisp, backyards are muted by the ghosts of lawnmowers, my tan is gone, and soon I'll be blasting the Charlie Brown Christmas soundtrack on repeat.
As winter rolls along, blowing her chords of discontent, I can see my breath dissolving in the sunlight and I dream of snow floating across the tops of cities while contemplating, not jazz, but which wines to pair with classic holiday dishes, such as spaghetti drizzled in maple syrup or a three-decker sauerkraut and toadstool sandwich.
Upon further reflection, I realize wine actually pairs better with everything, so why stop at just food? If, baby, it's cold outside for
by Tom Dai, The Farmer’s Daughter
photos by Janis Jean
example, why not try a big and powerful Barolo – the so-called "King of Wines" with its royal tannin bomb exploding in your mouth – to warm your cockles? Just don't forget to decant and let it breathe, otherwise you'll find the wine tighter than Ebenezer Scrooge's purse strings.
If you're roasting chestnuts on an open fire, then I would recommend a smouldering Syrah from the Northern Rhône, with the smoky notes of cedar from toasted oak aging pairing nicely with a woodburning fireplace. Especially if that wood is cedar.
But if you're thinking of which wines to pair with your holiday fare with their myriads of flavours, the answer is simple and obvious: we are going to pair our wines with cheese!
So, without further ado, here is a shortlist of wines we recommend for enhancing your holiday cheese board experience:
Fratus, Franciacorta Brut, Lombardy, Italy NV – the Franciacorta region is Italy's answer to Champagne, and similarly revered for producing the country's finest sparkling wine. Made by the same traditional method, Franciacorta is aged on the lees for a minimum of 18 months (compared to 12 for Champagne), giving the wines a round and creamy mouthfeel, with subtle notes of brioche.
Pairing this with a fresh goat cheese such as the Crottin à ma Manière from Quebec, brings out the wonderful texture and hazelnut flavour from the cheese, and complements the citrus and mineral notes of the wine, with the bubbles and high acidity tying it all together harmoniously.
A nice glass of bubbly pairs well with just about anything, so they are an easy go-to when you have company, perfect for those surprise visits from the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future.
Domaine Rolet, L'Étoile Chardonnay, Jura, France 2020 – a good example of the old adage "what grows together, goes together," as we pair this Chardonnay from the Jura region with its most famous (and my personal favourite) cheese –Comté. There's lovely fruit and beautiful texture to this wine as well as a toasty almond note that pairs perfectly with Comté's trademark nuttiness. The L'Étoile appellation in Jura is aptly named after its Pentacrine soil of star-shaped sea fossils, and the five hills that surround the region like a star, so it's an inspired pairing with Comté, often the star of any cheese board!
Plaisirs de Bourgogne
Roquefort
Régal de Bourgogne aux Canneberges
Domaine Nico, Grand Père Pinot Noir, Mendoza, Argentina 2021 – elegant and classic, this is an extreme high-altitude single-parcel Pinot Noir from Argentina. Inspired by the great wines of Burgundy, it has intense fresh red fruit, forest moss, a textured savoury palate, with bright acidity, silky tannins, and a lengthy, layered finish, making this wine a brilliant pairing with the Régal de Bourgogne aux Canneberges from Burgundy, a soft and creamy cheese covered in dried cranberries. To me, you are perfect.
Château La Rame, Sainte-Croix-du-Mont, Bordeaux, France 2018 – long in the shadow of the world-renowned Sauternes, Sainte-Croix-du-Mont lies directly across Sauternes on the right bank of the Garonne river, and benefits from the same micro-
climate that engenders the rare Botrytis Cinerea or "noble rot" that desiccates the grapes and concentrates its sugars, flavours and complexity. This luscious dessert wine, with notes of apricot, poached pear, honey and marmalade, has enough sweetness to satisfy your inner elf. The classic pairing here is with Roquefort –a crumbly and creamy blue from France. The sweet and salty interplay is divine, and every time you take a sip and bite of this heavenly combination, an angel gets its wings.
While all these pairings can be sublime, the most important thing to remember during this holiday season, is that no man or woman is a failure who has wine!
Lankaaster
Chive Gouda
Zamorano
Crottin à ma Manière
Comté
Stuffing the Stocking
THIS YEAR THE SEASIDE TEAM BRINGS YOU SOMETHING FOR EVERY STOCKING ON YOUR LIST!
Want a chance to win everything you see here?
Just comment on our know which one of these items you'd like to find in your stocking this year and be entered in our
Brentwood Bay Village Empourium 7103 W Saanich Rd, Brentwood Bay
Wind spinner tree ornament, $6
Russell Nursery
Saanich
steamer, $10
dot.
Heart guest soaps, $7 Crush pill organizer, $9.99
Notepad, $10
Hansell & Halkett
Vintage Home Décor 105-2360 Beacon Ave, Sidney
Discover the expertise of Monk Office and the creative spirit of Island Blue Art & Framing at Monk Office & Art!
Visit us at 9839 Fifth Street for fine art supplies, office products, local gifts, and more—all in one convenient Sidney location.
Unique Flowering AMARYLLIS WREATH
Natalie Foofat, Patio Gardens
Enjoy this elegant winter wreath indoors, and get a beautiful surprise when it blooms! Wax-coated amaryllis bulbs are incredibly easy to use – especially for non-gardeners. They make wonderful gifts and are a stylish addition to home décor, as seen in this wreath.
TOOLS & SUPPLIES
Grapevine or wooden wreath base (12-14" diameter)
Wax-coated amaryllis bulb
Fresh-cut greens (4"-12" lengths, such as cedar, fir, or pine)
Optional: moss (2-3 handfuls to create a moist pocket for your greens)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Prepare Your Wreath Base
Begin by placing your grapevine or wooden wreath base upright. It's easiest to do this while the wreath is hanging, to ensure it remains stable during assembly.
2. Attach the Wax-Coated Amaryllis Bulb
Secure the wax-coated amaryllis bulb to the bottom inside curve of the wreath using wire. Position the metal base of the bulb on the wreath and tie the wire tightly enough to secure the bulb, but avoid pulling it so tight that the metal base is compromised. For extra security, you can use wire or fishing line around the bulb itself. However, be careful not to damage the foliage of the bulb. Make sure the tip of the bulb faces upwards. If you prefer a more modern look, you can place the bulb slightly off-centre for an asymmetrical design.
photo by Natalie Foofat
photos by Tanya Murchie
3. Arrange the Fresh Greens
Begin placing fresh-cut greens (e.g., cedar, fir, or pine) around the amaryllis bulb. Arrange them so that they fan out in both directions under and around the bulb, covering the bottom and sides of the wreath. A trendy option is to create a half-circle of greens, leaving the top of the wreath open for the bulb to grow and bloom freely. Adjust the length and width of the greens to achieve the desired effect –more greens will add drama, while less will create a subtler look.
4. Add Decorative Accents
Personalize your wreath with decorative elements like bobble ornaments, a festive bow, pinecones or berries. Secure each item with wire to keep it firmly in place. This is where you can let your creativity shine!
OPTIONAL
Adding a Moss Pocket for Longer-Lasting Greens
To extend the freshness of your greens, you can create a moss pocket. Take two to three handfuls of damp moss and shape it into a firm log (about six to eight inches long). Secure the moss with fishing line or wire and attach it to the wreath, beneath the amaryllis bulb. Insert the cut ends of your greens into the moss, which will help keep the greenery hydrated. Be sure to keep the moss pocket moist by soaking it as needed. This design can also be created as a table centrepiece by leaving the wreath flat, with the waxed amaryllis bulb pointing upright in the centre, placing gorgeous greens and decorative accents all around.
AFTERCARE
Amaryllis Bulb
Wax-coated amaryllis bulbs typically bloom in four to six weeks at room temperatures (around 18°C) and will continue to bloom for about three weeks, producing one or two flower stalks with up to four blooms per stalk. The bulb does not require water – only bright natural light and warmth to thrive. Once the blooms fade, the bulb can no longer be forced to flower again, so it should be discarded.
Greens
Mist your fresh greens every two to three days to keep them vibrant. If you've used the moss pocket, soak it once or twice a week, ensuring the moss has time to drain throughly before re-hanging the wreath.
MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS
ONE THING, THREE WAYS
by Jayne Nelson, Waterlily Shoes
photos by Tanya Murchie
One Boot 3 Ways
Fall and winter is officially Boot Season, and this season we have more options than ever! We have many different height boots from very short (at the ankle) to tall boots (at the knee) and everything in between. Different toe styles from pointy (think cowboy boot) to a classic round toe to a square toe. Heel heights vary from flat, to a block heel, to a high heel. Don't be afraid to use what you have!
Often styles don't change significantly, or old styles come back in vogue. Fashion is about having fun, expressing yourself and feeling good! Find new ways to wear the things you have. For example, you can add a new pair of boots as an update to your fall wardrobe (think a mid-calf boot with a cropped pant) or wear an existing pair of boots with a new outfit (think the tall boots in your closet paired with a new midi skirt or dress). Express yourself!
We hear too often from customers that they feel too old for an on-trend style. Our answer is always that "you are never too old for fashion." Wearing styles that make you feel good that are on-trend will make you look and feel great!
We have dressed our model in three different looks to help you see how just one pair of boots, like this stunning red ankle boot, can take you from casual to dressy!
Big Hank’s Christmas Blues Song
December 14
Big Hank has been touring his Blues Christmas show for a number of years now and this unique, variety filled program of blues-basted Yuletide tunes is one that has left audiences drenched in the Christmas spirit and coming back for more when the next holiday season rolls around.
Touring from Vancouver Island to the snowbound prairies of Alberta, this Christmas show has consistently tied together a variety of classic blues styles, some r&b and a touch of soul. Blues Songs of Christmas is a show where every song puts a different spin on the season and everything that goes with “the most wonderful time of the year.”
This refreshing take on holiday concerts finds the singer and his talented, veteran band rolling through music that includes tunes going back a century to Christmas blues tunes that have been favourites of the boomer generation that grew up listening to B.B. King and Eric Clapton. Tunes from the books of Big Joe Turner, Charles Brown, Etta James and Louis Jordan also find their way into the festive mix that has received rave reviews.
Cinderella the Panto
December 21-28 Cinders has a fairy godmother to keep an eye on her and the baron’s manservant, Buttons, who will do anything for her.
Prince Charming is holding a ball to which everyone in the village is invited, including Cinderella and her step sisters, Beryl and Cheryl. The prince’s friend and servant, Dandini, is helping him with the invitations and the two of them are protected by Snitch and Snatch who start off as brokers to the gentry but somehow get hired as their security men.
Beryl and Cheryl are totally self-centred and, along with their mother, Devilia, treat Cinderella like a servant. Cinderella’s father, Baron Hardup does his best to help her but is under the thumb of Devilia, his second wife. Fortunately
The baron is short of money but has bought a racehorse, Dumpling, whom he expects to be a future champion and win him lots of money to support his extravagant wife and stepdaughters – although some have doubts about his potential. The main cast is supported by a chorus, two spiders and two uncannily human trees.
There’s lots of fun, plenty of music and dancing and the audience is expected to support the “goodies” and boo the “baddies” in true pantomime tradition.
O Come All Ye
Soulful
December 16
Turn up the dial on your holiday spirit with a celebration of soul music! Join two award winning powerhouses—vocalist Dawn Pemberton and bassist/bandleader Jodi Proznick with an all-star, award winning band as they bring a joyful and soulful bounce to your favourite holiday songs.The music includes holiday classics made famous by Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Ella Fitzgerald, John Legend, Donny Hathaway, Otis Redding, Darlene Love, Vince Guaraldi, and more!
Dawn Pemberton – Vancouver soul dynamo Dawn Pemberton has a deep musical foundation rooted in tradition. Dawn spent her formative years surrounded by a family of multi-instrumentalists and developed a true love of music as a young girl. In addition to regularly collaborating on the projects of her peers and having an educated background in jazz voice and piano, Dawn is a talented and passionate songwriter in her own right. A staple of the West Coast music scene, Dawn can be found tearing it up as a vocalist, arranger, and go-to for live performances and studio sessions. Dawn has shared the stage with the likes of Maceo Parker, Linda Tillery, John Lee Sanders, The Sojourners, John Boutt and Dutch Robinson. Her gifts have been featured in the music of future jazz group 1Luv (Sonar Kollektiv) and in blues juggernaut, The Harpoonist and The Axe Murderer.
Jodi Proznick – JUNO nominated and Western Canadian Music Award winner, bassist, composer, bandleader and educator Jodi Proznick has earned a reputation as one of Canada’s finest jazz artists. She was the winner of numerous National Jazz Awards including Bassist of the Year in 2008 and 2009. In addition to leading her own group, Jodi has performed with many of Canada’s top jazz musicians and has been featured on over 30 recordings as a sideperson.
Upcoming Events
December
January
February
Keen on CASSEROLES
HOLIDAY CROISSANT CASSEROLE
2 tbsp salted butter, thinly sliced
6 croissants, torn into thirds
8 eggs
3 cups whole milk (3.25% milk)
4 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp chopped fresh sage, or 1 tsp dried sage
1/4 tsp grated nutmeg salt and pepper
300 g (1 package) frozen spinach, thawed, squeezed dry
1 1/2 cups grated Gouda cheese
1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
100 g thinly sliced prosciutto (1 package), each slice torn in half widthwise
FROM THE KITCHEN
by Joan Saunders photos by Kathryn Alvarez Photography
The month of December can be a very busy one in so many ways. In order to enjoy the events that roll around each year, it's important to me to try to manage my time and make sure that I don't get overwhelmed and miss out on the pleasure of seeing family and friends.
So I make lists. A lot of lists. It helps me to keep organized and on track with what's coming up in the weeks ahead. I also try to have a few meals tucked away in the freezer or, if I know people are coming by and are hard to pin down on exactly when they're arriving, have some treats ready to pull out. Alternatively, cheese, crackers and some dried fruit are always a crowd pleaser. I try to remember that it's not my food they're coming to visit, but me. Let's hope so, anyway.
That's why I love casseroles, at any time of day. If people are wandering by for breakfast, you don't need to worry about making pancakes, eggs and bacon if you've got this wonderful croissant casserole ready to go that you can easily assemble the night before. Add some coffee, tea, juice and fruit, and you're ready to enjoy the time with your guests, instead of fussing about the time you're spending in the kitchen.
This casserole is a definite upgrade from ones I used to make. It's got so many more layers of flavour, as the croissants are very buttery and their cooked texture alternates between soft and crispy. The combination of cheeses gives it a subtle nutty taste, and the fluffy eggs beautifully tie the mixture together. If you would rather keep it as a vegetarian dish, you don't have to add the prosciutto, but it does augment the whole recipe with some salty, crispy yumminess.
Don't buy expensive croissants to make this, as that's not necessary. It's all of the other ingredients that elevate the base layer of the croissants. They're still important for the overall recipe, but they don't need to be top-of-the-line, French bakery croissants. Those are for savouring on their own, another time, with good salty butter and some lovely jam.
With this dish as part of your breakfast or brunch, you do have options. If a lot of people are coming by I would also make some scones, fry up some turkey sausages and have a big plate of fruit. Then those who aren't as keen as I am on casseroles can have something a bit simpler. If it's just a few people, then just keep it easy and put out fruit to round out the meal. And, hopefully, there will be some of this wonderful casserole left over for me to tuck into again later in the day. After all, I also have to take care of myself in December, don't I?
Preheat oven to 350°. Use a bit of butter to grease a 9x13 pan.
Arrange croissant chunks (as they're already torn into thirds) throughout the baking dish. Put bits of sliced butter on top of croissant chunks. Bake croissants until they're lightly toasted, about 6-8 minutes. Remove pan from oven; let cool for about 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard, sage, nutmeg and some salt and pepper. Stir in the spinach that you've pressed as dry as you can, and ¾ cup of each of the cheeses (1 ½ cups total). Carefully pour mixture over pan filled with toasted croissants. Try to distribute it evenly. Top with remaining grated cheese. Take prosciutto and push scrunchedup pieces partway in between some of the croissant chunks. Cover pan; put in fridge for at least one hour, or overnight.
When ready to bake casserole, preheat oven to 350°. Bake 45-50 minutes, or until centre of casserole is set. If croissants get too brown before it's finished baking, cover with foil and continue to cook. Remove from oven; let cool a few minutes before serving.
Adapted from:
Half Baked Harvest: Super Simple, Tieghan Gerard, Clarkson Potter.
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by Dr. Marita Schauch, ND Tall Tree Integrated Health Centre
Dr. Marita's Top 6 Supplements for Surviving the Holidays
Ahh the holidays … while we may love or hate this time of year, it's never all sugarplums and cozy socks like we wish it would be. Stresses like travel, your in-laws and a million to-dos to make the magic happen can really take a toll, and we can find ourselves starting the new year exhausted, depleted and coming down off of a big sugar crash. I've hand-picked my top six supplements for surviving the holiday season. As always, consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.
Magnesium
Sometimes called the "miracle mineral," magnesium plays a key role in many of our body's functions. The focus here is magnesium as a stress regulation ally. It helps to soothe frazzled nerves, promote good sleep and relax tense muscles. Look for a magnesium bisglycinate form to avoid any digestive upset caused by other forms of magnesium and aim for about 200 to 400 mg per day.
Vitamin C with Zinc
This is technically two supplements, but they work together for maximum immune support to help get you through the holidays without catching Aunt Jessie's cold. 500 to 1,000 mg of vitamin C and 10 to 15 mg of zinc daily is a solid combo for immunity support.
Vitamin D
Nothing kills the mood like the winter blues! Most Canadians benefit from a vitamin D supplement through the winter months due to the decreased sunlight. You'll also notice benefits in energy levels and immune function.
B-Complex
gut flora as sugar feeds yeast within the gut. Keeping up with a highquality probiotic over the holidays will help maintain healthy gut flora and keep your digestion running smoothly. Make sure to still incorporate
We strive to create an environment where women feel safe and encouraged to build their confidence in making wise financial decisions on the path to the life they envision.
Please join us for a free women’s workshop to discover your financial purpose and to start your Life By Design. We meet monthly, on the third Wednesday of the month. Scan the QR code for event details.
These little powerhouses are essential for energy production, mood regulation and combatting holiday fatigue. The B vitamins are also great for supporting your adrenal glands, which can take a hit when you're stressed. Take your B-complex in the morning to boost your energy and avoid sleep disruptions.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen that acts as a big stress support. It helps to regulate cortisol, one of your main stress hormones, and reduces fatigue. It can also help to promote a restful sleep by sustaining calmness throughout the body.
Probiotics
Your gut is going to need some love over the season of indulgence. A surplus of sugar can lead to imbalances within the
2 Brentwood Bay Village Empourium Brentwood Bay Village Empourium is your holiday general store: a favourite destination for seasonal socializing and shopping! The shop is a festive delight, filled to the brim with unique gifts. Where else can you eat, drink and browse all in one cozy location? 7103 W Saanich Rd, Brentwood Bay 778.351.0178 empourium.ca
4 Deep Cove Trading Co. Shop the market this holiday season for local goods, unique gifts and festive cheer! We also offer custom gift baskets, perfect for spreading holiday joy while supporting small businesses. Feel free to call for more information; we look forward to hearing from you! 10940 West Saanich Rd, North Saanich 250.656.2547 deepcovemarket.com
1 McTavish Academy of Art Art Kits –Creativity for All Ages! Looking for the perfect gift for family and friends? Enjoy our locally crafted art kits, complete with paints, brushes and glue. Over 40 designs to select from. Pickup and shipping available! 1720 McTavish Rd, North Saanich 778.351.0088 mctavishacademy.ca
3 Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea The aquarium’s Salish Sea Store features a wide selection of locallydesigned jewelry, clothing, cards, pottery, art work, artisanal foods and more. Purchases support independent artists, small businesses and the nonprofit aquarium’s marine education and conservation initiatives. Feel good about your holiday purchases this year. 9811 Seaport Pl, Sidney 250.665.7511 salishseacentre.org
6 Home Hardware Sidney Your local Home Hardware has what you need for even the most hard-to-buy-for people on your list. Tools, kitchen gadgets, fishing gear, garden accessories, puzzles, candy, and more! Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will help you find what you need. Thank you for supporting local. 2356 Beacon Ave, Sidney 250.656.2712 homehardware.ca
5 muffet & louisa One of the best reasons to shop the Peninsula –our new bigger, brighter store where you can easily see all our lovely goodies, especially Patience Brewster Christmas Reindeer! Christmas at muffet & louisa means free gift wrapping and easy exchange and return policies! 107-2360 Beacon Ave, Sidney 250.656.0011 muffetandlouisa.com
La Boutique Salon & Shop A truly unique experience of trendy clothing, jewelry and accessories mixed with the very best in beauty services. La Boutique was created in 2020 and has since served the Peninsula and beyond with hairstyling, waxing, eyelash services, mini facials and nails. Visit us during the holidays for the perfect gift or take some welldeserved time to treat yourself. 2392 Beacon Ave, Sidney laboutiquesidney.com
8
Kiddin’ Around Kid tested and parent-approved kids
10
Blundstones make the perfect gift! This pint-sized version of the iconic Australian slip-on leather boot provides all day comfort, removeable footbeds for extended wear and neutral styles make these boots the perfect hand-me downs.
Spruce Clothing and Lifestyle A community-oriented lifestyle shop supporting many makers close to home, our goal is to create connection to the goods, and to each other. Our shelves offer small batch, slow made, everyday pieces designed to last. If you’re looking for inspiration, visit our new location down by the Bay! 828 Verdier Ave, Brentwood Bay 250. 883.6072 @spruce.clothing
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9 Market Collective Experience the talent and magic of local and Canadian artisans, designers and food producers. We now support over 200 makers in three diverse locations, offering ethical local and handmade quality gifts and goods. Mattick’s Farm The Bay Centre Westshore Town Centre victoriamarketcollective.com
PENINSULA VOICES
by Jesse Holth
photo by Sarah Hartley Photography
GAIL & JOHN BONES: Feeding Our Community
Gail and John Bones are long-time residents of Brentwood Bay, having lived in the area for 40 years. Every week, they spend time volunteering at the Living Edge Market, providing free surplus produce, bread, and other food items to the community.
How did you come to volunteer for Living Edge?
I had spent many years working as a volunteer and Chaplain at Mustard Seed as well as a volunteer at a downtown Living Edge Market, but wanted to serve closer to home and have the opportunity to do this with my husband, John. He suggested we try volunteering at the Living Edge Market at the Centennial Park Campus of Saanich Baptist Church, as we knew a couple of the people leading it. We were welcomed with open arms by the market manager and invited to carve out our own roles in it. This really touched us. We found niche roles in serving each week, and being familiar faces who would greet the attendees, engage them in conversation, and provide background music.
What role does music play at these markets?
Our own band, Doctor Bones Project, has been fortunate to play live music at a few summer farm markets, particularly James Bay and Goldstream. We have come to appreciate the value that music has in creating a welcoming and festive vibe for the market-goers and vendors. We have found that playing background music at our Saanichton Living Edge Market has done the same thing, giving people a feeling that they've come to an event, come to interact with other people, and go home feeling good about the experience. Music has been a big part of creating a community vibe at the Market.
Where does the food come from?
Every Thursday, over the noon hour, a Living Edge food delivery van shows up to unload supplies that have been picked up from a variety of sources, from the Mustard Seed Food Distribution
warehouse to grocery stores that offer their surplus food to Living Edge. We're also aware of a number of Central Saanich businesses and farmers who offer fresh vegetables, bread, eggs and flowers to our Market. Occasionally we even get Market attendees coming with food that they want to offer. What's truly amazing is the small group of dedicated volunteers who come every Thursday to unload the truck, and sort through and prepare the food for distribution.
You said the need for justice in society is huge – and that people often feel they're not being treated fairly. Can you elaborate on this idea?
Fairness and justice in society is a daunting issue. As individuals we can only seek to affect the situations within our sphere of influence. In the case of the Market, we try to convey this notion to the attendees through the actions and attitudes of the many volunteer servers and the processes we use for distributing food and promoting best behaviour.
For example, in our process, food is distributed to attendees in accordance with a numbered ticket. We convey just and fair treatment by shuffling the numbered tickets and handing them out to everyone at a regular time (5:15 p.m.) each Thursday, instead of a "first come, first served" process.
Some of the most generous community members are those who have previously received food from the market. How do you equalize the power structure between givers and receivers?
There's a tendency at volunteer food or meal distribution events for a "we give and they receive" approach to get used as a power differential. Meanwhile, the recipient of the free item can feel inadequate or inferior by lining up and taking the free item. We're fortunate to have great volunteers at this market, doing their best to follow the teaching "Do unto others," or treat others the way you would like to be treated. What we've done is take up offers by attendees who want to be part of the service. We find a good fit
for them in all the activities, including the set-up, take-down, food prep and number calling.
You refer to this as a "community market" and not a food bank – can you explain the difference?
Food banks are indispensable in our community, and increasingly so across Canada. We appreciate what they do to meet people's needs. We have attendees who frequent food banks as well as the Market. But we don't store or "bank" the food that we receive. We don't require people to register, or show some type of proof or need, which may be the case for some food banks. And, as mentioned, we are trying to characterize our operations in the style of farm markets (but free). We are all serving the same purpose.
It takes a lot of hard work to run these weekly markets – what makes it all worthwhile?
The Market on Thursdays is very much the highlight of our week. We do come home exhausted, but the interactions and the connections are so rewarding to us – both with the attendees as well as the other volunteers. The things that stand out to us are those where attendees will come to the assistance of other attendees, even those they do not know, just to help out.
We've seen people being helped to get their keys from inside their locked vehicle; people pushing cars out of the mud; lost wallets found in the parking lot and turned in; singles trading their good number with a single mom with kids in tow, so they can get through the line faster. And last month, when we ran into a former market-goer (a new immigrant) who has landed a great job and no longer needs the assistance provided by the Market.
Do you have any advice for those looking to spend more time volunteering?
Look for something you feel led to do. Try it out. Make sure you are flexible in tasks that might get assigned to you. Make sure you're in it for the right reasons. And sometimes the best way to get involved is to donate funds to support this work – whether Living Edge markets (they have a website) or a service area of your choice.
The high cost of living has affected people from all walks of life – how can we make the most of our food budgets? What kinds of long-term solutions would you like to see?
I know of market volunteers who occasionally come with recipes to hand out to attendees, knowing there will be a surplus of a certain vegetable or product and wanting to see the product used for maximum benefit. We feel that the market has given many attendees an opportunity to try out foods that are more plant- or vegetable-based, as a lot of our food is of that nature. We can only do our part. We can try to be examples of how to cope with the problem that many people now have in trying to stretch their food budgets. We can and do pray that our governments will come up with more creative ways to address this multi-faceted and complex problem.
Rob Rolston
This ad was supposed to be a professional biography, but the first thing that you should know about me is that I don’t like talking about myself. I am also generally uncomfortable with the pseudo-celebrity that comes with a career in real estate, so I prefer to keep my head down and go about my business.
So …
Let’s talk about you, instead!
I promise to listen to YOU, to work hard to earn and keep YOUR trust, to be available to YOU, to make buying/selling as stress-free (and fun) as possible, and that I will look out for YOUR best interest.
If you are thinking of buying and/or selling, please give me a call. I am happy to sit down and talk… about you!
778-966-1967 | rob@beaconrealtygroup.ca
ON DESIGN
Cydney Hellier Gray, cydney hellier gray design
GLOBAL INSPIRATION: Your Holiday Home
As December rolls around, I am starting to think about this year's holiday season. I like to reimagine tradition and put a fun spin on the season each year. I am gathering ideas for a Global Christmas theme this December. Having spent many holiday seasons away from home and out of the country, these times hold fond memories for me and my family.
When we decorate our homes, to truly create a warm and welcoming space I feel we need several layers to entice our senses and emotional engagement. The same holds true for an inspiring holiday home. Think of the lights; candles; the touches of nature; the music; all the smells; and of course, the rich and enticing food and drinks we tie into our celebrations.
Many decorations at Christmastime reflect religious cultural and social customs around the world. The spirit is captured through various symbols and traditions. In Mexico, we see paper lanterns, poinsettias and piñatas. Christmas crackers, holly and mistletoe are common in the U.K., and in Finland we find wreaths made of fir branches, as well as himmelis – a straw star, hung over dining room tables or on Christmas trees. Stars made of wood, bamboo sticks or paper are common in many countries. In the Philippines, there are star lanterns.
In Japan, ornaments include origami swans and cranes, made by hand and placed on a tree, said to symbolize honour, longevity and good fortune. In China, we see paper lanterns hung around the home and spilling outside. In Scotland, tartan fabric, ribbons and bows are used, often in red and green.
Lighting will set the tone for a festive season, inside and out. In many countries like Germany, Switzerland and Scandinavia, candles were lit
on trees as a religious tradition as a representation of hope, warmth and lightness over darkness, especially with the short days. It was in 1882, after the invention of the light bulb two years prior, that an associate of Thomas Edison strung 80 red, white and blue light bulbs around his Christmas tree in New York City, thus creating the first electricallyilluminated tree. The smaller twinkling lights are like the fairy lights of Japan. I have always loved the simplicity of a menorah in the window or on a table threaded with greenery to celebrate Hanukkah. To complete the look, I will ask my son to bake a loaf challah and put out some halvah to go along with the Jewish theme.
Multiple fun and bright colours remind me of Mexico. I might do a red-and-white theme, reminding me of Sweden. Tropical flowers adorn homes at Christmastime in Costa Rica.
While not an indoor decoration, in Germany, Christmas markets are an integral part of the holiday celebration. We can carry that theme at home and have a German sausage roast on the barbecue and serve spiced mulled wine (Glüwhein) in the snow after a long winter walk!
I feel food becomes part of the décor when it is beautifully presented. Think of gingerbread houses (Germany), Australian pavlova, a tray of honey cookies (Greece), panettone (Brazil) and German marzipan.
I am inspired to have a Feast of Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve, as they do in Italy. We could have roast goose or duck for Christmas dinner like they do in Germany.
When entertaining, what is more enticing than spiced mulled wine simmering on the stove, permeating the room? Make an international Christmas playlist and enjoy!
Winter Wonderland
Happy Holidays FROM SANDOWN PARK
SHOP LOCAL, SHOP THE WEST SIDE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Welcome to Sandown Park Shopping Centre, a 100,000 square foot retail plaza in North Saanich located along McDonald Park Road on a portion of the lands formerly occupied by the Sandown Racetrack facility. Accompanying the established Canadian Tire that opened in 2018, construction of a new 47,000 square foot phase was completed this summer that is home to Red Barn Market, Dollarama, Sandown Liquor Store, Joe’s Family Pharmacy, Domino’s Pizza, barBURRITO (Mexican) and Firehouse Subs, along with other soon to open retailers including Sleep Country Canada, Higgie’s Pet Mercantile and Cheeky’s Cannabis. Another feature of the new phase is a 16-stall Tesla Supercharger station that opened to the public in October.
Three units remain available for lease ranging in size from 1,650 square feet to 2,200 square feet. “With the recent completion of this exciting new phase, Sandown Park is a well-rounded and convenient shopping node that is uniquely positioned to service the everyday shopping needs of residents and businesses in the area, as well as traffic along the Pat Bay Highway,” says Kyle Shury of development company Platform Properties, a partner of the Randall Family, long-time owners of the Sandown lands.
story and photos by Lindsay Neal
Walking-up in Lisbon
Over 75 Years of British Design & Innovation. It Must be Dualit.
A Christmas present the whole family will enjoy –everyone loves good toast!
My partner and I had the pleasure of visiting Portugal this past June. Lisbon was our first destination, and it quickly stole our hearts; from the quaint, black-and-white Portuguese cobblestone streets to its divine cuisine luring us to every corner of the city. Charmingly detailed patterned tiles were plastered over buildings, balconies, stairs and walkways. Deplaning in Lisbon around 4 p.m. local time, my partner and chauffeur Eli had roughly 15 minutes to remember how to drive standard in our rental car, in a city he had never driven in before. Our hotel was located in the heart of Baixa, which welcomed us with rush hour traffic, impatient honking locals, narrow streets, and winding hills galore (which I am told is quite a joy when driving standard). Once we were happily situated in a parkade, we wondered how much more driving we might do in the tangled web of streets seemingly wide enough for just one vehicle at a time.
We hauled our luggage up two tall flights of marble stairs to reach our tiny room with a small balcony. We peeked out to view the end of a warm orange sunset cast onto crowds of people in the streets. Our internal clocks were now scrambled enough to set out on foot, and seek out sardines for dinner. Popping into a small, lively nearby restaurant, we had our first taste of sardines and some grilled octopus. The deliciously fresh and crispy sardines and octopus sat amongst grilled potatoes and vegetables on our plate. Enticed by the beauty of Lisbon, we attempted to explore the dazzling city after our meal, only to be found passed out from exhaustion in our bed 20 minutes later.
The next day we climbed rolling cobblestone hills and countless flights of stairs, from dawn until dusk. In desperate search of coffee
shops open before 7 a.m., we discovered the intricately painted blueand-white tiles that drenched the garden square in Alfama, Praça Júlio De Castilho, and watched the sunrise. Next, we trudged to the Castelo de São Jorge, surrounded by orange trees and budding flowers. Nestled on a hilltop, this old castle was originally built during the Moorish rule of Lisbon, and had withstood the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. In Baxia, we walked up to the top of the Elevador de Santa Justa, a gothic lift that towered above the city, for an expansive view of the busy city streets. After stopping for a mandatory lunch gelato, we walked towards the ocean, into Terreiro do Paço. This gorgeous oceanfront plaza displayed the iconic stone Rua Augusta Arch, constructed after the 1755 earthquake. Not far from here, we visited the "home" of the coveted custard tart, at Manteigaria's Pastel de Nata. We watched as the bakers assembled the beautiful tarts on top of marble kitchen counters, while crowds of tourists drooled over the mouthwatering smell. Eli devoured the tart, and I, as the celiac spectator, had to take his word that it was a delectable treat unmatched by local competition.
In only a day and a half, our feet had been run ragged, but we were far from finished galivanting through Lisbon. Weaving upwards into worn-down stairways and busy alleyways, we dropped into a small wine shop, guarded by an old white terrier, to sample some port. Later that evening, we dined in an old restaurant around the corner. The restaurant owners sang Fado music and serenaded us as we sat at a long table squished amongst locals and tourists. Next, our evening stroll led us to a bar with live music spilling out into the alleyway. Once we began to wander towards our hotel room, we became mesmerized by the magic of the city at night.
Unbeknownst to us, we had averaged 25,000 steps per day in a jet-lagged haze without batting an eye. Our rental car was tucked in a parkade, and we couldn't care less. My partner-chauffeur and I agreed that the remainder of our travels in downtown Lisbon would be on foot. The key to Lisbon had been setting out on foot, parading about lost, and uncovering the gems of the city in tucked away corners and atop never-ending stairways.
Partner with someone who’s fully dedicated to achieving your real estate goals.
Your home is unique, and I’m committed to selling it quickly and at the best price by using my expertise and local market knowledge.
For buyers, whether it’s your first home or your tenth, there’s nothing quite like the moment you walk in and know it’s “the one.” I’m thrilled to be part of that journey with you!
I’ll be there to keep you informed and supported every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and stress-free buying or selling experience.
Live Your Dream!
Help us grow a better community.
As an endowment-based foundation, we invest donor money permanently and use the income it earns to support charities.
Through our grants program, we support programs and activities that benefit the residents of the Saanich Peninsula, in health and social services; arts and culture; education; conservation; and recreation. All the things that grow a better community for all of us!
$600,000+ in endowment as of January 2024
This year $30,000 of investment interest was used for grants
This year over $30,000 in grants were disbursed to 14 community charities.
Thanks to generous donors in the past year our endowment has grown to over $850,000. That’s $43,000 we’ll have in grant money available in 2025 to local non-profit organizations! Grant applications open in January and are awarded to grant recepients in March.
Find our more at sp-cf.ca.
Donate today and help our community grow!
WEST COAST GARDENER
by Matt Hall, Red Feather Horticulture
Planting Your Garden to Help the Birds
I've met few gardeners that didn't have more than a passing interest in the wider natural world, so I've always felt that gardening and birding are two hobbies that seem to intertwine in most of us with green thumbs. Unfortunately, we're facing a time of crisis, with plummeting populations of native songbirds. It's estimated that North America has lost three billion birds in the last 50 years, most of which was due to habitat loss. As gardeners, we have a chance to help our native birds by choosing plants that will help feed and protect them year-round. Below are four of our favourite bird-friendly plants that will help give our feathered friends a boost (and might force you to invest in some binoculars).
Pacific flowering currant (ribes sanguineum). Apart from being a beautiful plant for the garden, currants are key for feeding birds in both the spring and the summer. In spring, their hot-pink flowers are a key shrub for feeding our Anna's and Rufous hummingbirds, while in the late summer the dusty, black currants are a favourite for many bird species. Although all of the flowering currants are great choices for birds, the compact size and vivid flower colour of the "King Edward VII" makes it our choice of currants.
Serviceberry (amelenchier alnifolia). As horticulturalists, we believe that the native serviceberry (or Saskatoon) doesn't get the respect it deserves as a garden plant. Apart from having delicious fruit and multi-season interest, all of the serviceberries are also key forage plants for both hummingbirds (in spring) and songbirds (in the summer). One of our favourite cultivars is "Rainbow Pillar" as it has a more compact growing style so will fit even the smallest urban garden.
Coneflowers (echinacea sp.). There's a reason why echinacea are as popular as they are: they're tough, deer resistant and beautiful. With their inclusion on this list, it's also no surprise they're loved by birds. Although not as favoured by hummingbirds, echincea are adored by bees and butterflies in the summer. If the seed heads are left on the plant they become very tasty to our overwintering songbirds (especially finches) during the colder months.
Pacific crabapple (malus fusca). Our native crab apple is another plant that doesn't get the credit it deserves as a landscaping plant. Their beautiful white flowers turn to blueberry-sized apples in the fall. With the smaller-sized fruit, these trees aren't nearly as messy as more common crab apples. It also helps that the birds won't leave much left to hit the ground. Having a crab apple will almost guarantee a visit from a flock of Bohemian waxwings during the winter. Although we favour the native species, any crab apple will be a favourite for backyard birds.
We at Redfeather hope you have a terrific holiday season and that you have a chance to enjoy the birds! If the birding bug really gets you, join the Christmas Bird Count this season. Of course, if you require any horticultural help, gardens installed or invasive plants removed you can reach us at www.rflh.ca
Participating businesses in downtown Sidney are now accepting Sidney by the Sea Gift Cards!
Participating businesses in downtown Sidney are now accepting Sidney by the Sea Gift Cards!
Participating businesses in downtown Sidney are now accepting Sidney by the Sea Gift Cards!
Gift cards make for a fantastic gift and can be purchased locally at the Sidney Information Centre at 2281 Beacon Avenue or online for direct mailing.
Gift cards make for a fantastic gift and can be purchased locally at the Sidney Information Centre at 2281 Beacon Avenue or online for direct mailing.
Gift cards make for a fantastic gift and can be purchased locally at the Sidney Information Centre at 2281 Beacon Avenue or online for direct mailing.
This program is managed and supported by the Sidney Business Improvement Area Society (Sidney BIA).
This program is managed and supported by the Sidney Business Improvement Area Society (Sidney BIA)
Join the Spirit of Giving This December for Giving Tuesday
This December 3, join the global movement of Giving Tuesday – a day dedicated to supporting local causes. Whether through a donation, volunteering or spreading the word, your efforts can make a meaningful impact for families, community health, youth programs and more. Visit your favourite local charity's website or www.givingtuesday.ca to learn how you can participate.
Christmas Gathering for 100 Women Who Care
For those seeking an opportunity to support the community yearround, 100 Women Who Care is a local giving circle where women come together to make a big impact through collective donations, each contributing $100 to support a local charity chosen by the group. Join the Christmas 100 Women Who Care Saanich Peninsula meeting on December 2 at Mary Winspear. For more details, visit www.100womensaanichpeninsula.com.
Sidney Gift Card Solves Your Holiday Gift Dilemmas
Looking for a versatile gift that supports local businesses? The Sidney Gift Card is accepted at over 70 Sidney shops, restaurants and services, so it's an ideal choice for anyone on your list! By giving the Sidney Gift Card, you're not only offering a thoughtful gift but also helping our local businesses thrive. Sidney Gift Cards are available online at www.exploresidney.ca or at the Sidney Visitor Centre located at 2281 Beacon Avenue.
RockCoast Confections
Enters a New Chapter
RockCoast Confections has big changes underway! In October, founders Amber and Jon Isles sold the business to new owners Courtney and John Zacharuk, who will lead it into its next chapter. Amber has launched Crave Coast, a new venture focused on RockCoast's popular protein bar line. Operating from a new facility in West Sidney, Crave Coast will continue delivering these nutritious treats.
After 40 years in business and 27 at Mattick’s Farm, it’s time to retire and do other things.
Please join us for one last Huge Christmas!
All of your Scandinavian favourites, ornaments galore, as well as as many goodies as we could get.
Come in and join us for a last hurrah! Look for the red stickers…
New Senior Manager for Ounsted & Company
Ryan Kelly CPA, CA, BBA joined Ounsted & Company as a Senior Manager in November 2024, after many years at a national accounting firm in Victoria. Ryan earned his professional designation in 2013 and his Batchelor of Business Administration from Simon Fraser in 2007. Outside of work, Ryan enjoys spending time with his family.
Celebrating Milestones: Cheers to Kiddin' Around & Waterlily Shoes!
Congratulations to Kiddin' Around and Waterlily Shoes on their recent anniversaries! Celebrating 31 years, Kiddin' Around has been a cherished hub for kids' toys, clothes, and footwear for over three decades.
A round of applause also goes to Waterlily Shoes for 15 years of bringing style, comfort and quality footwear to our community. Both businesses have shown incredible dedication and passion and we wish them many more years of success!
Stitch In Time Brings Creativity to Beacon Avenue
An exciting new chapter is beginning for Stitch In Time Lucy! The talented seamstress is thrilled to be moving her business
to a commercial space at 2412 Beacon Avenue (upstairs). The new location will allow Lucy to bring an expanded selection of sewing supplies and classes for beginners. Whether you're looking for clothing alterations, to pick up a new skill, or to find quality materials for your next project, pop in to see what Stitch In Time has to offer.
Island Blue Art and Framing on the Move
Island Blue Art and Framing, known for its selection of quality art supplies and custom framing services, will be moving to a new location to merge with Monk Office at 9839 Fifth Street and will be known as Monk Office & Art going forward.
For those wondering, Island Blue Print is a separate business and will continue to operate from its regular home at 2455 Beacon Avenue, maintaining the same great service.
by Jacqueline Nicoll K & Co. Marketing
Embracing the Future of Pet Care
In a world where technology is constantly evolving, many new tools for pet ownership can significantly simplify life for everyone involved. Technology has come a long way, with a variety of gadgets and apps designed that you may not even know about yet! Whether you're a seasoned pet owner or are considering welcoming a new addition to your family, let's review three lifechanging types of pet tech that can improve your pet care routine without being overwhelming.
First up, let's talk about health tracking devices. These handy gadgets are like fitness trackers for pets! They monitor your pet's activity levels, sleep patterns, and even vital signs. Many health trackers come with user-friendly apps that allow you to keep track of your pet's health data right on your smartphone or tablet. If your dog is a bit of a couch potato or your cat seems to be napping more than usual, these devices can help you identify potential health issues early on. Plus, you can share this information with your veterinarian, making those check-ups a whole lot easier.
Next on our list are smart feeders, which are a game changer for busy pet owners. These nifty gadgets can dispense food at scheduled times, making sure your best friend is fed even when you're not at home. Many smart feeders come equipped with features like portion control, so you can avoid overfeeding and help maintain your pet's
ideal weight. Some models even allow you to interact with your pet while you're away, letting you see and talk to them through a built-in camera and microphone. Imagine being able to call your dog over for a treat while you're stuck at work or running errands!
Finally, there's a new wave of pet cameras, which have become a favourite among pet owners. These devices let you monitor your pets in real time from your smartphone, giving you a live feed of your pet's activities throughout the day. Some cameras even have two-way audio, allowing you to chat with your pet and comfort them while you're away – can you imagine what your dog might say? Many pet cameras also include motion alerts, so you'll know if your pet is getting into mischief or simply being their adorable selves. If you're struggling with a pet who suffers from separation anxiety, these cameras can offer a great way to ease those worries and provide a sense of security. Embracing pet technology can make life easier and more enjoyable for both you and your pets. Health trackers, smart feeders, and pet cameras are just a few examples of how tech can enhance pet care without being overly complicated. Next time you're on your smartphone, try searching for new apps for pets – I bet you'd be surprised to find out what is currently out there! With these tools at your disposal, pet care can be a lot more convenient, less stressful, and a lot more fun for everyone.
Sending
Ingrid Jarisz *
MaryAn Van Stolk *
Mona palfreyman
Ralph Meuser
steffen hagen
2024 Holiday Book Wrap-Up
by Jackie LaPlante
This Strange Eventful History
Claire Messud
Covering three generations of a Franco-Algerian family, the book's seven episodes depict the trials and joys of daily life. Important events such as World War II and Algerian independence are kept offstage, mere backdrops to the family history, allowing the seemingly unimportant family dramas to shine. Inspired by her own history, Claire Messud allows the nearly mythical love story of the eldest generation to guide successive ones, always exploring the unintended rootlessness of a colonial existence.
I Heard There Was a Secret Chord: Music as Medicine
Daniel J. Levitin
Daniel Levitin, neurologist, cognitive psychologist and musician, seeks to connect emotion with science, advocating the use of music as an adjunct therapy to traditional treatments.
Referring to specific conditions such as PTSD, Parkinson's disease, dementia and childhood cognitive stresses, Levitin suggests that the sensory stimulation of music might stave off disease and ease pain, providing a path to better health.
Drawing on his previous studies, Levitin keeps the tone accessible, punctuating each chapter with caseinspired anecdotes.
Ornithography: An Illustrated Guide to Bird Lore and Symbolism
Jessica Roux
Birds have long been important references in art and life. They are symbols of, among many things, wisdom (owl), wealth (goose) and confusion (roadrunner).
Inspired by an almost pagan sense of the natural world, Jessica Roux profiles over 100 birds using historical references from folklore, mythology and art to explain their specific connotations. As with her previous compendium, "Floriography," each page is highlighted by a delightful hand-drawn illustration. This beautiful keepsake anthology is whimsical yet informative.
Blue Sisters
Coco Mellors
One year after their sister's death, the remaining Blue sisters face the effect of her loss on their lives. Separated by geography and their differing relationships with their late sister, the three women, all successes in their own rights, are plagued – by addiction, infidelity, indecision – but mostly by grief. Coco Mellors' polished, contemporary writing sees the humour, the vulnerability and the power of family love in embracing and surviving grief.
Hockey Hall of Fame Book of Jerseys
Steve Milton
Are they hockey sweaters or hockey jerseys? From the woolen sweater Hilda Ranscombe of the Canadian champion Preston Rivulettes wore in the 1930s to current technical fibre jerseys, editor Steve Milton curates a collection of treasured museum pieces. Closeup photos of the jerseys are accompanied by fascinating vignettes about the owners and their careers. It is the heavily-used, wellloved state of these jerseys as much as the histories they impart that make this collection a delightful reference.
Q: A Voyage Around the Queen
Craig Brown
This fascinating profile is not a standard dates-and-places biography of the late Queen Elizabeth II. Acknowledging the Queen as one of the most documented people on the planet, Brown plunges into the overlooked: how the corgis were employed as a conversational tactic, why few people who met her remember what she said, and that she was revered even by anti-monarchists. Creative and amusing, Craig Brown's account of HRH is cheeky yet ever respectful.
The Black Loch
Peter
May
After an eight-year hiatus Peter May has returned Fin Macleod to the blustery harshness of the Isle of Lewis. Having left both the island and the police force nearly a decade ago, Fin is compelled to return when his son, Fionnlagh, becomes a suspect in a recent murder. Episodes and acquaintances from Fin's youth and references to the landscape (machair, black houses) help to maintain the almost mystical setting of the Lewis series.
Hand-Crafted All Natural Products Using Sustainably & Locally Sourced Ingredients
SIMPLY. NATURALLY. AUTHENTIC Come Visit our Refillery at 1-2449 Beacon Ave, Sidney, B.C. WWW.DOTNATURALS.CA @DOT.NATURALS
by Maxwell Gauthier Rapid Transformational Therapist
Struggle with Mental Health? Try Vagal Toning
Have you ever heard of the vagus nerve? It might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but this nerve acts as a communication superhighway between your brain and vital organs all the way down to your stomach. This includes your tongue, lungs and heart.
When you feel anxious or tense, the vagus nerve helps bring your body back to a calm, balanced state. In other words, it is responsible for slowing down your heart rate, improving your mood, and even boosting your immune system. Think of it as your body's superpower for relaxation – a built-in reset button for stress.
But the vagus nerve isn't just about feeling calm: it also plays a huge role in mental health and trauma recovery. When the vagus nerve is strong and well-functioning, or has "good vagal tone," it can help you feel more connected, resilient, and able to handle stress. But if it's weak, you might feel overwhelmed, anxious, or even experience hidden symptoms like headaches, low energy or digestive problems. People who have experienced trauma or who live with high levels of stress often have lower vagal tone, making it harder to calm down when life gets tough. If this sounds like you, know that your vagal tone can be improved over time by doing exercises that activate the nerve directly.
As a hypnotherapist, I use vagal toning exercises with all of my clients. The goal of these exercises is to help calm the body and take it out of the "fight-or-flight" default state it may be in. This has allowed
my clients to process trauma more effectively and improve their psychological baseline.
And the good news is: you don't need fancy equipment or hours of practise to stimulate your vagus nerve and start feeling better right away! Here are three of the most effective ways I've discovered to tone your vagus nerve, all validated through work with clients:
Cold Exposure. Splashing your face with cold water or taking a short, cool shower triggers the "diving reflex" – a body response that slows your heart beat and creates an immediate state of calm after exposure is completed.
Humming/Singing. Vibrating your vocal cords causes the vagus nerve to vibrate as well, as both run through the larynx in your throat.
Endurance Exercises. Participating in moderate- to high-intensity exercises, such as jogging and swimming, can increase Heart Rate Variability (HRV), a key measure of how well your body responds to stress.
If you'd like to explore the benefits of Vagal Toning, you may decide to do one of the above exercises for 30 seconds, once a day. You may also find it useful to set an alarm as a reminder of this new habit. Practising these techniques regularly has helped me create much more calmness and resilience in both my mind and body. Happy Toning!
Adrienne's Restaurant & Tea Garden
Cordova Bay Optometry Paper Chain
Piper + Ally
Pure Day Spa
Red Barn Market
Gallery at Mattick's Farm
Mattick's Farm, Cordova Bay, 250-658-1535
as well!
Shop Local, Shop Small.
The Shops at Mattick’s are a unique collection of independently owned boutiques in the heart of the Cordova Bay Community.
Just 20 minutes from the ferry, airport or downtown Victoria, it’s easy to reach from any direction. Whoever said money can’t buy happiness … just didn’t know where to go shopping!
Bakery, Deli and Restaurant for Breakfast, Lunch and Afternoon High Tea. We also offer Afternoon Tea plate and Kid’s Tea plate!
Book your reservations for Christmas High Tea, try our Christmas Stollen and large selection of baked goods.
Happy Holidays to you and your family from all of us at Adrienne’s!
Celebrate a Personal Connection
Individually handcrafted with care, Pyrrha talismans protect, celebrate and inspire the wearer. Come and explore our shop, with one-of-a-kind hand-chosen greeting cards, an amazing selection of unique giftware and treasures that will put a smile on your face. We pride ourselves on friendly customer service and welcome individual custom orders with many of our giftware lines.
Holiday Hosting Made Easy
Experience the talent and magic of local and Canadian artisans, designers and food producers.
We now support over 200 makers in three diverse locations, offering ethical local and handmade quality gifts and goods.
our last christmas before retirement!
Come and celebrate our last Christmas before retirement! The store is full of little red stickers as we work our way through lots of great stock. Candle supplies are good too!
The last day isn’t until March 22/2025, but it will come fast. Ladybug Boutique
250.658.3807 ladybugboutiquevictoria.com
In December, each non-perishable food or hygiene product you bring in will earn you 3% off the purchase of new eyewear*, to a maximum of 15%. Items will be donated to Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank. *some exclusions apply
all decked out for your holiday season! Wreaths and Christmas trees adorn both enchanted garden centre locations. Our team is creating stunning floral arrangements, centrepieces and planters. Unique giftware and spectacular service are all waiting for you at both Seaberry locations! Also at 333 Cook St.
The festive season is alive and well at Creekbottom Farm where owners, Kelsey Fletcher and Jess Bossert, look forward to a holiday dinner this year which will feature their own farm-raised turkey along with a variety of produce from their garden. "We raised turkeys this year. They are a rare heritage breed called Spanish Blacks," shares Kelsey. "I'm really looking forward to hosting a turkey dinner and discovering for the first time how the meat of the Spanish Black tastes, as it is reputed to be much more flavourful than the standard commercial turkey meat. My plan is to breed the Spanish Blacks, which originated in Europe and are now listed as endangered."
For quite some time, Jess and Kelsey have shared the dream of having land and growing their own food. "We just loved the idea of having a little hobby farm and growing crops," says Kelsey. Adds Jess: "Kelsey and I both grew up in small towns and had parents that were committed to food gardening. I was always looking around for that little spot to raise a few vegetables."
Situated in Brentwood Bay, Creekbottom Farm is named for the creek running along the border of the two-acre property. Here, a variety of delicious produce is grown including garlic, onions, squash, tomatoes, grapes, blueberries and raspberries. In addition to turkeys, geese, chickens and sheep are raised. "We have a diversity of crops, and this attracts beneficial insects," relates Kelsey. "I really like caring for animals and making sure they have a good life. Plus, the turkeys and geese are great for pest control."
Since the couple first purchased the property in 2013, they have made significant changes to both the land and the outbuildings on it. Details and photographs are beautifully captured on Kelsey's farm blog http://www.creekbottomfarm.ca.
While the one original outbuilding on the property was retained, a brandnew barn was built for the chicken coop and hayloft. "When we arrived, it was barren and featureless," comments Kelsey. "The previous owners had horses, and so the soil here was compacted. We put in a cover crop of vetch in the first year. It roots deeply, which helps to break up the soil. We then put in a 100-foot-long vegetable garden and enjoyed it for two years."
Work was done to the original riding ring, transforming the space into a viable growing area. "The goats and pigs had access to the riding ring area. This fertilized the land somewhat and created the opportunity for that section of the property to once again support plant life. Now, we have some raised garden beds there, along with some perennial fruit crops," says Kelsey.
While the initial focus was on a large vegetable garden, the landscape layout has evolved. Jess created an attractive pond encircled by a lush garden, winding paths throughout the property, and an outdoor pergola setting. He shares about the rich diversity of plant life on the property: "I've moved more towards perennials and have woven just about every kind of fruit you can grow here into a decadelong landscaping project that includes many ornamentals."
Creating and maintaining the farm as well as handling day jobs and careers is a balancing act. Jess is a director with the Ministry of Health, and Kelsey is a court reporter. The couple have found ways to divide up the labour. "Kelsey is the best home cook I've ever met, does most of the day-to-day animal care and is our on-site poultry breeder. I'm in charge of weeding, fencing, building, equipment maintenance, and any task that needs a shovel," relates Jess. "Over time, Kelsey and I have found a way to combine our various gifts and strengths to create something we love".
Creekbottom represents a place where they can both escape from the demands of careers and find ways to connect with the land. "Farming feels creative and provides me with a way to connect really closely with this place where we live. I'm constantly learning about it and can feel that it's shaped me just as I've shaped it," says Jess. "I love coming home to the farm," adds Kelsey. "We are deeply rooted here. It's the most comfortable place to be, and we have a deep sense of gratitude that we have it."
As well as providing a quiet refuge from the world, their farm provides practical rewards. As an enthusiastic cook, Kelsey talks about
the joy of creating new recipes and dishes. "We grow so much of our own food. Often, there will be different varieties of a particular produce that I can experiment with in my cooking."
This year's seasons of planting and harvest have passed, and in the spring, the cycle of seasons will begin again. But now it is time for Jess and Kelsey to celebrate the rewards of their efforts in the feast on their holiday table.
May the magic of Christmas fill every corner of your Heart and Home.
SEASIDE BOOK CLUB
by Deborah Rogers
November Meeting
Songs for the Broken Hearted by Ayelet Tsabari was a strong finish to our reading year. Weaving together two storylines, from the 1950s and the 1990s, the story explores the struggle experienced by marginalized people the world over to find their place and a sense of belonging.
Zohara's parents immigrated to Israel from Yemen, bringing with them traditions and customs that were very different from the Ashkenazi Jews who had come from across Europe when the country was first founded. Their story, and particularly the story of her mother, is explored through the eyes of an adult Zohara as she tackles the grief of her mother's death and a deep sense of displacement arriving back in Israel after studying in the United States.
Tsabari's characters are authentic and complex, and our readers especially enjoyed the way that Zohara was presented –as prickly and flawed – and her pain acknowledged. The story provides insight into the point of view of Arab Jewish women in Israel. For most of our group the novel also served as a history lesson, introducing ideas we hadn't been aware of.
The geo-political situation in Israel is so complex, but the narrative sensitively directed the reader towards significant events, as they touched the lives of her characters, providing insight and perspective.
The songs of the title are recordings of her mother that Zohara discovers. The tradition of storytelling through song is at the heart of the book. It led to a fascinating discussion for our group about music as a means of connection. The novel is rich and textured and provided us with a window into a world that is dominated not just by religious differences but cultural ones too. Much of its power was in seeing how the individuals manage to navigate and thrive within that complex world.
As in past years, we took a few minutes at our meeting to review all the titles we have read over the year. There were some stand-out hits, but for the readers present Songs for the Broken Hearted ranked as the favourite.
As well as the end of the year, we have also reached the end of our Seaside Magazine Book Club. Over the past eight years we've read 90 books together, hosted three authors for Q & As; we've weathered a pandemic and social distancing rules; a renovation of the library and necessary move to different venues; and we've seen members come and go. Through it all there has been a
wonderful sense of community in our book club. Members have brought their varied life experiences and viewpoints and offered insights and perspectives that always enhance the books we've read.
I am grateful to everyone who has been involved over the years – you have all added something to the meetings. Special and sincere thanks go to the Sidney North/Saanich Library for accommodating us and providing the Book Club Sets of books. And to Virginia MacLeod, my co-host, for all her hard work, but also for her enthusiasm, willingness to be adaptable, and for pushing me to read outside my comfort zone and, by extension, encouraging the whole Book Club (240 subscribers at its largest!). I look forward to seeing new literary content in Seaside Magazine next year; thank you for all your support.
by Richard Hope
Holiday Wine Guide
UPGRADE YOUR CHRISTMAS SELECTIONS
Having worked in the wine trade for the past year, you start to notice patterns in people's purchasing habits, and with Christmas around the corner, I thought now would be the perfect time to introduce what I consider thoughtful "upgrades" to common selections. Whether you're headed to a holiday party or seeking something special for your own table, these alternatives offer real value and might introduce you to your new favourite wine.
PRICE GUIDE
$ ($10-$20), $$ ($20-$40), $$$ ($40+)
If you like Sauvignon Blanc … try Talamonti Trebi
Trebbiano d'Abruzzo
Here in B.C., New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc has become our quintessential white wine, with brands like Kim Crawford, Matua and Oyster Bay offering that characteristic dry, refreshing profile at around the $20 mark. For something equally compelling but different, take a short trip to Italy's eastern coast with Talamonti Trebi Trebbiano d'Abruzzo ($$). This elegant wine from Abruzzo makes both an excellent aperitif or companion to seafood and shellfish, delivering all the crisp refreshment of a white wine with its own distinctive Mediterranean character.
If you like Chardonnay … try Unsworth 2021 Chardonnay
For Chardonnay lovers with a generous holiday budget, tradition points to Chablis ($$$) from Burgundy, widely considered the world's finest white wine. For something closer to home but just as good, I highly recommend Unsworth 2021 Chardonnay ($$). At a recent blind tasting panel in Victoria, this Chardonnay made the top five, beating wines from all over the world. It often sells out quickly and has a deep minerality from being grown in limestone soils. It is a great accompaniment to your Christmas cheeseboard and creamy dishes.
If you like Pinot Gris … try Picpoul de Pinet
Pinot Gris (aka Pinot Grigio in Italy) is a remarkably successful wine; sales reached US$2.5 billion in 2023. While it's abundantly present in B.C.'s vineyards, producing excellent light wines with hints of pepper and peach, the market remains dominated by familiar brands like Barefoot, Cono Sur and Jackson Triggs. This Christmas, I highly recommend Picpoul de Pinet ($) from southwest France. It has bright citrus notes and pairs very well with fried food.
If you like Pinot Noir … try Cassini Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir was not my go-to wine before moving to Canada, but its elegant lightness offers a welcome alternative to heavier reds. While Oregon and California producers like Meiomi and Bread & Butter have captured the local market with their fruit-forward styles, it is well worth considering local providers here in B.C. Cassini
Pinot Noir ($$) from Osoyoos has a light intensity and sophisticated profile of cherry, anise and blackcurrant, making it an inspired choice for the Christmas turkey.
If you like Merlot … try Ciro Rosso Classico Superiore
Merlot is a deep red from Bordeaux in France and is probably most people's introduction to red wine. The grape grows in cold and warm climates (and extensively here in B.C.), can be easily blended, and is a major component in Bordeaux wine. This alternative has a very distinct label: Ciro Rosso Classico Superiore ($$). Made from the Gaglioppo grape grown in Calabria, Southern Italy, it's a great accompaniment to pizza and pasta.
If you like Malbec … try Masseria Li Veli Askos Susumaniello 2022
There has been a real craze for Malbec over the last 20 years. Originally from France but adopted by Argentina, it went from a small forgotten grape varietal to becoming Argentina's most valuable wine, making up over threequarters of production. For an exciting alternative, I highly recommend Masseria Li Veli Askos Susumaniello 2022 ($$$), usually priced around the $40 mark. Like Malbec, it thrives in warm climates, originates in the Mediterranean (Puglia, Italy) and has real depth. For me, this is my wine of the year, and it is that good. Susumaniello was a largely forgotten grape until this century; it is very old and possibly has a Greek origin. Highly recommended on its own or great with red meat.
1 oz Absolut Vodka
1 oz Baileys
1 oz Kahlúa
2 oz Cold Brew Coffee
Shake with ice and strain. Cheers!
Members earned 5% on their liquor purchases.
Richard Hope is immersed in the wine trade, specializing in helping wine lovers discover new favourites. Keep in touch: Kibo.rjhope@gmail.com
SAANICH PENINSULA HOSPITAL & HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION S p i r i T Ga l A
PRESENTED BY
THANK YOU to the community and our generous sponsors, for helping us raise over $450,000 at this year’s Spirit Gala!
GALA EVENING SPONSORS
PRESENTING SPONSOR WINE SPONSOR FLOWER SPONSOR
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ENTERTAINMENT SPONSOR
TABLE SPONSORS
Alexanderʼs Coffee
Amica Senior Lifestyles
Arbutus Ridge Golf Club
Barbaraʼs Boutique
Blue Jelly Fish SUP
Brentwood Community Wellness
- Angela Leavey
Butchart Gardens
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Canadian Tire
CastArt Studios
Chartwell Vista Retirement
Community
Chek News
Chemainus Theatre Festival
Communicanine Training
Cottons & Blues
Country Grocer
Craigdarroch Castle
COCKTAIL RECEPTION SPONSOR
LIVE AUCTION SPONSOR
de Havilland Aircraft of Canada
d.g.bremner & co.
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Fresh Cup Roastery Café
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Il Terrazzo
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Level Ground Coffee Roasters &
Roastery Café
Lifetime Eyecare
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Macaloneyʼs Island Distillery &
Twa Dogs Brewery
Mango Tango Interiors
Marion Evamy
Matshop Art Supplies
McTavish Academy of Art
Metropolitan Hospitality
Mount Washington Alpine Resort
Muffet & Louisa
Nancy Michell
Oakwood Manor
Oceanna Hall
Pacific Coastal Airlines
Pacific Heat Pumps
Panago Pizza
Panorama Recreation
Peninsula Panthers
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Rancho Vignola Distributors Ltd.
Rascals Pet Market
Rivershore Estate & Golf
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Rogersʼ Chocolates
Royal BC Museum
Russ Hays The Bicycle Shop
Stone’s Jewellery
Deep Cove Chalet
d.g.bremner & co.
Good Bones Clothing Company
Salvador Davis & Co
Sawmill Taphouse & Grill
Sea Cider Farm and Ciderhouse
Seaside Magazine
Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea
Shelley Davies Art
Sheringham Distillery
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Star Cinema
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Czap The Ice Cream Truck The Market Stores
The Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa The Vista Inn
Tim Maloney & Karen Morgan
The Noble
Victoria Butterfly Gardens
Living Well in Every Stage of Life
by Connie Dunwoody, Broadmead Care
My husband and I recently returned from a three-week trip to Europe. We last went in 2018, so it had been a while since we made such a large geographical and temporal shift in one day. Six years ago the effects of a nine-hour plane trip combined with a nine-hour time difference were no big deal. With him turning 70 this year, and me in my early 60s, this time, we felt it.
It got me thinking: "How many more years do we have to travel, and what do we want to do?" But more than that, it got me thinking about how we need to prepare as we collectively enter this next stage of life.
Acknowledge and Accept
Honestly, I can describe my journey through life in two words: things change. Whether we embrace or avoid it, change is coming for us all.
We can, however, prepare for it. Not long ago I looked at my husband while we were getting ready for the day. He was leaning against a wall, and I was sitting on the bed – just to get dressed. We laughed at ourselves, then joined a gym, hired a trainer, and started a strength program aimed at keeping us fit for daily living and an active lifestyle.
So I think that's one part of success for aging: acknowledge what is happening, and do something about it. (We can get dressed standing on one leg now. That's progress.)
One of my friends put it really well: "Aging requires a total shift in thinking, and when we accept what's happening, and release expectations of ourselves and others, it's like a burden lifting."
This is equally true for the person who is aging, and also for anyone who loves them. It can be difficult to acknowledge and accept for yourself; it's almost harder to accept for someone about whom you care – a parent, an older spouse or a grandparent. Yet in doing so, there is peace.
Adapt and be Grateful
There's this half-joking-full-serious gag about old people who drop things on the floor. Whereas a 30-something would simply bend over and pick it up, old people just look at it dolefully and wonder if they really need it anymore.
American writer Jessica Hagedorn said it best: "Adaptability is the simple secret of survival." So this is another helpful strategy: adapt. If you can't run, then walk. If reading is challenging for your eyes, listen to audiobooks. There's always an option; sometimes we just have to look a little harder to find it.
Maybe adaptability is tied to being curious: staying open to exploring what's really going on and what options are available. There's so much freedom in accepting and moving on, because in that shift, I believe possibility can breathe new life into old bones.
When we entertain possibility, we open up worlds of opportunity. When something changes, asking "what's next" brings me back to possibility, and that keeps me going. Possibility and opportunity almost always provide options for living well. Let go, and move forward.
In turn, living well gives us the chance to say "thanks" for what we're able to do, and for the people we love. Taking time to name things, out loud or in a journal, gives us an opportunity to cherish the people and activities we enjoy.
When we look back at each day, every week, and the years that comprise our life's journey, there is so much to be thankful for. Yes, there are hard times and health challenges. Yes, things change. Yes, some changes are uninvited and more life-changing than others. Yet I believe that when we acknowledge and accept the changes, adapt and stay open to possibilities, and express our thanks for people and activities every day, we can live as fully as possible, with joy and gratitude.
Connie Dunwoody is the Communications Coordinator for Broadmead Care. She's thankful for every person reading this article.
VISIT OUR EXCLUSIVE RETAIL AREA FOR EXPERT SKIN ADVICE
Discover our customized walk-in retail area, offering premium products carefully selected to address your unique skin needs. A skin expert is available daily to provide personalized recommendations to help you achieve all your skincare needs with confidence. Gift Certificates Available!
Love
Your
LOCAL …
You are investing in your community by supporting its unique businesses. Appreciate what makes our neighbourhoods different. Our one-of-a-kind shops and services are an inherent part of the distinctive character of our Saanich Peninsula neighbourhoods; that is what brought us here and will keep us here. Stay local and stay connected to the merchants in your community. By supporting them today, you are investing in a unique and sustainable future for the Saanich Peninsula community.
Deep Cove Customs
Local, affordable custom cabinets … right here on the Saanich Peninsula! We offer a full-service shop, from design and manufacturing through to the installation of our exceptional product. We’ve expanded our business to include full home renovations! Deep Cove Customs is so much more than Cabinets now.
Seaside Cabinetry & Design
Seaside Cabinetry & Design is a family-run business owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Tony Rechsteiner and Jessica Kwasnica. They opened in 2015 and have a beautiful showroom located in downtown Sidney at 9715 First Street. They are authorized dealers of both Merit Kitchens and Columbia Cabinets. Both of these well-known and quality brands are built right here in B.C.
Jessica graduated from design school in 2005. She loves taking a space and designing the unexpected. Tony was a home builder and renovator and enjoys getting creative with grand spaces – they're the perfect team to work together on transforming their clients' spaces! Seaside is excited to announce that they have recently welcomed a new designer into the mix. Carrie Mills comes with 19 years of design experience.
The Seaside team is passionate about design and love working with Sidney locals as well as people from and all over Vancouver Island. Getting to know their clients is a key aspect to their success. Seaside Cabinetry & Design prides themselves on quality cabinetry, professional design services, installations and personalised services. Come and meet them at their showroom by appointment and get going on your new space; maybe a new kitchen is in your future!
250.412.3472 deepcovecustoms.com 9544 Aurora Pl, N Saanich (call for appt.)
Welcome to December! Summer is not long past, but it is time to start thinking about keeping warm in the winter and celebrating the holidays! November 2024 was the beginning of our first Christmas in our new larger home, we are so excited to have more space for you all to come to visit and discover all our beautiful winter and Christmas offerings.
Everything you have come to expect from us is in full stock: sheepskin slippers, flannel sheets, alpaca throws and wonderful wool blankets from New Zealand in both king and queen sizes. We are now able to stock All-Clad cookware that we have not had room for in the past couple of years, as well as a small amount of Staub cast iron.
Of course, we have our favourites to help you decorate your homes for the Christmas holidays: the much-loved Patience Brewster Christmas collection. Sparkly reindeer with their sleighs and elves, Santa and Mrs. Claus, the Wise Men and their manger beasties, dashing sleighs, happy carolers and musical snow globes – all designed and so carefully made to enchant you.
Thank you all for another wonderful year, and we wish you a very happy and healthy holiday season.
muffet & louisa
Haircut - Shaves 7OPEN AYS
Seaside Cabinetry & Design is a boutiquestyle cabinet showroom located in downtown Sidney. Custom Design, Merit Cabinetry,
Peter Dolezal is a semi-retired Sidney resident. He offers INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL CONSULTING SERVICES to individuals, couples and companies.
To date, he has assisted more than 350 clients across Canada, principally in Greater Victoria and the Lower Mainland.
WITH Peter Dolezal
MARKET EUPHORIA
As I write this in late October, all North American and major global stock markets are roaring along at high year-to-date double-digit percentages, reaching levels that no one could have predicted at the beginning of 2024.
Yes, interest rates are falling as inflation approaches more normal historical levels, economies remain strong and the unemployment rate is falling. On the other hand, uncertainty surrounding the U.S. election, wars in the Middle East and Ukraine, China’s faltering economy and its continuing threats to Taiwan, would normally be a drag on markets. Today however, only the good news seems to register.
cost, well-diversified products, sectors, and geography, while producing a solid and predictable income stream regardless of market direction.
This status-quo approach does not suggest that an investor in today’s markets should be totally passive. Some rebalancing of holdings may be appropriate. If a percentage of investments in a particular sector has greatly outperformed others, selling off a slice of the excess and reinvesting the proceeds in some of the “laggards” may be wise.
No Financial Products to Sell Leads to Truly Independent Advice. Author of
Whenever markets reach record highs so quickly, investors have mixed reactions. On the one hand, they share the market’s euphoria as their Net Worth grows. On the other hand, many fear a market reversal, wondering if, before markets turn, they should dramatically reduce Equity exposure. Both reactions are to be expected. However, bailing out of Equities to preserve capital is rarely a good move. It is essentially an attempt to time markets. Selling off Equities is really a bet on market movement. In reality, markets could reverse tomorrow, or they could continue their bullish advance for another year or two. The odds of an investor accurately predicting market movements are very small.
Yes, in the shorter term, stock markets are far more volatile than Fixed Income products. Historically however, volatility is more than twice as often to the upside, rather than to the downside. While Equity Bear Markets do arise once or twice per decade, they rarely last more than a year, before resuming an upward trajectory.
Of course, this “hands off the sell button” approach presumes the existence of a sound portfolio structure – one with low holding
Most importantly, the investor who regularly draws funds from his/her portfolio should ensure that enough value exists in the Fixed Income portion, sufficient to cover all draws for at least two years. This Fixed Income safety net ensures that the investor is never forced to sell Equity holdings if these happen to be on a major correction track. In such a circumstance, all draws can be made from the investor’s relatively stable Fixed Income products. When Equities inevitably recover, a modest portion can be sold, and the proceeds reinvested in Fixed Income, returning those holdings back up to their original ‘safety net’ percentage.
When Equity markets deliver strong double-digit returns, as in 2024, the wise investor needs to compare their own Equity changes to the broad market performance. If dramatically underperforming, a thorough reassessment of the existing investment structure should be considered.
The bottom line? Record market levels alone should not trigger major Equity sell-offs. Investments should be designed for optimal long-term performance. Portfolios, however, can be adjusted if Fixed Income percentages are too low, or if the overall portfolio performance consistently underperforms comparable Indexes.
SEASIDE talks with Tim Maloney, Saanich Peninsula Community Foundation, about what's in
FASHION …
kitchen? An escape from reality with a delicious prize at the end. Pots from North Saanich Canadian Tire, an assortment of kitchen tools from Muffet & Louisa and many, many cookbooks (some family heirlooms and some from Tanner's) for inspiration. On your feet? On warm days Birkenstocks from Walk-in-Comfort but for cooler weather I have a great assortment of shoes and boots from all over. When adding colour to your outfit? Used to be a tie for years … now it's one of my numerous pairs of socks or a funky shirt from D.G. Bremner. In home décor? A blend of comfortable and cozy around the antiques we have been collecting over the years. One of our daughters described it as "the house of trinkets" (now there's a story).
In your closet? There is a sweater my mother knitted, out of the wool from our sheep, for me in high school. The rest stays if it touches my fancy or brings joy. In your shaving kit? The essentials plus a corkscrew; one never knows when you will need one! On your bedside table? An ivory elephant that was my mom's, my Grandpa's gold pocket watch and books by Lorna Crozier and Gail Bowen. On your luxury wish list? Karen and I travelling to our bucket list destinations.
On your walls? A large variety of pieces that have spoken to us (usually at a charity auction) leaving little wall still showing. A friend of ours says every piece has a story – one more reason to bid on the dinners at Tim's Table we offer at charity fundraisers! When you want to smell irresistible? Since I'm usually found in the kitchen, I guess it's a little gravy behind the ears. When you want to throw fashion out the window and be all about comfort? Sweats and a T-shirt. When you didn't care how much it cost? Karen convinced me I should have a pair of Fluevog shoes to go with her collection. In haircare? For many years now Karen has been cutting what's left. After every second cut I can afford a bottle of local whiskey!
Oncology Esthetics complements medical oncology treatments and falls under the integrative approach in a safe and caring environment.
UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACT OF CANCER TREATMENT ON THE SKIN
CUSTOMIZING SKINCARE TREATMENTS FOR INDIVIDUAL NEEDS
Fresh Skincare Studio: Personalized Facial Treatments IN GOOD HEALTH
by Pamela Martin Blue Jellyfish SUP Adventures
In a world where self-care often feels like a luxury, Fresh Skincare Studio invites you to indulge in the ultimate form of selfnurturing. Owner Alana Delcourt, well known on the Peninsula, welcomes clients to a skin care salon where natural beauty meets holistic wellness, offering more than just treatments – rather full experiences. Here, every facial, touch and element is designed with Alana's goal in mind: "to infuse healing energy into esthetics by creating intentional, personalized facial treatments." This is not just a place for skin to glow – it's a private boutique where your inner radiance is awakened, and the stress of the outside world fades away.
Safe & Comfortable
Talk of professional skincare often conjures images of treatments gone wrong or unnatural results, and although there can be a place for medical oriented treatment centres, Alana stresses that Fresh Skincare Studio, a holistic facial studio, is not a medical spa. With 25 years of spa and studio experience, she has chosen a modern approach that works with your skin's own healing capacity as opposed to "fixing flaws" which can be disruptive or inflammatory. Alana loves to get to know her clients, building a trust and rapport to support their reasons for seeking treatment. She utilizes non-harmful modalities that promote the vibrancy and health of your skin longterm.
Natural Results
With glowing, natural appearances on trend for both everyday and special festivities, Alana believes that making slight shifts that support your cell's chronological age rather than drastic changes ultimately produces the best outcomes. Her holistic approach flows down and gets to the root causes of skin concerns reconnecting skin health with intentional ingredients and intuitive facials. Natural nutrition programs, facial massage and overall relaxation support the long term wellbeing and restorative appearance of your skin. Nourishing, sculpting, results-oriented treatments centre the health of the skin barrier and biome.
Eliminate Decision Overload
One of the biggest hurdles for many who are considering skin treatments is navigating the complex treatment menus found online
or when you walk into a new spa. Trying to decide the best treatment path for yourself in a field in which you have no expertise can be discouraging. Alana eliminates this barrier by personalizing beauty treatments to meet your individual skin goals. She believes that environmental factors and internal states play a significant role in skin health.Your lifestyle, nutrition, emotions, hormones and overall well-being are all taken into account. By addressing these factors, she aims to improve your skin's condition and enhance your overall holistic wellness. Deep results are achieved by eliminating prescribed services and hence the stress of decision overload that you otherwise might experience.
Complete Relaxation, Beginning to End
SIDNEY
"To infuse healing energy into esthetics by creating intentional, personalized facial treatments."
You can expect complete relaxation from beginning to end when you book an appointment at the Fresh Skincare Studio. The welcoming atmosphere when you first walk through the doors sets the calming tone for what's to come. Alana believes the pendulum of self care has swung to the client's desire for taking time out for themselves while indulging in full experiences. Treatments such as massage-focused facials not only give you the best visible results but also a greatly enhanced sense of overall wellbeing, addressing the needs of your body, mind and spirit.
New Experiences from a Committed Learner
Alana's commitment to the well-being of her clients fuels her passion and motivation to provide the best facials possible. As a life long learner of aesthetics, etiquette and skin care tools she is able to offer modern effective treatments through her ever expanding knowledge base. The aptly named Tranquility Facial – aroma point therapy paired with facial reflexology – is an example of a new tactile treatment the Studio is launching in December that focuses on the nervous system thereby achieving healing in areas such as tension headaches and sinus problems among others. Recently added deep tissue massage techniques ensure clients get the best care. At its heart, Alana's philosophy stems from an understanding that our skin isn't a problem that needs to be resolved, but rather a delicate and vibrant system that thrives from having its foundational needs met at every stage of life. Whether you're looking to rejuvenate your skin or unwind from the pressures of daily life, this holistic haven is a celebration of self-care, blending luxury with relaxation in a truly transformative way. This refreshing perspective on skincare embraces the idea that true luxury lies in caring for yourself in the most profound and natural ways. It's truly a luxury you shouldn't do without.
Seasons Greetings from all of us at Alford Walden Law
Sending the warmest holiday wishes to you and yours during this beautiful
We hope your holidays will be filled with joy and laughter through the New Year.
by Sheila Henn, CPA, CA Chartered Professional Accountant
SC Henn CPA
CHARITABLE DONATION: REDUCE TAXES, GIVE BACK
Donating to a charity is one of the ways of reducing taxes while supporting causes that you may be passionate about. Many campaigns will reach out to individuals to support their organization. It is important to consider your own situation and to be mindful of potential pitfalls.
Charitable organizations and qualified donors can be looked up online with the Canada Revenue Agency to ensure they are registered. Foundations such as the Victoria Foundation, Saanich Peninsula Community Foundation or online platforms such as www.CanadaHelps.org are great resources and ways to help support local charities or causes.
Donations are credits, not deductions, and require the tax receipt and not just a pledge. They can be used as a credit and carried forward, if not used, for up to five years. They may also be combined with your spouse's donations. U.S. donations to a U.S.-tax-exempt organization or University can be used in Canada but generally, may only be used against U.S.-sourced income. When claiming a larger amount of donations, CRA will often review this to ensure they are within the tax rules.
Aside from cash, there are many alternatives to donations. Inkind donations of securities can be beneficial, as you receive the fair value of the donation and an exemption from the capital gains tax. Donations of other in-kind goods such as artwork or services may also be an option. Life insurance policies, registered funds and donoradvised-funds all have their advantages and disadvantages. Again, ensure these go to a qualified organization and must be appropriate for you.
If you cannot donate at this time, many local charities need volunteers. Your skills may be needed as much as cash. If you do receive solicitations, be wary of tax schemes such as requesting donations of bitcoin or gift cards. Protect your personal data!
When you have a life change, revisit your plan and discuss with your loved ones your reasons for your wishes. Charities also change, so keeping up to date with these organizations helps to ensure they remain in line with your values.
Charitable giving continues to be one way of reducing taxes while giving back to your community. Remember, often a small amount goes a long way for a smaller institution. Organizations have people who are passionate about their work and would love to discuss options. The tax rules are complex and continue to change. This information should not be used as advice. It is more important to do your research and consult your professionals.
For more information, email sheila@schenncpa.ca.
ARTS SCENE
by Jo Barnes | photos by Tanya Murchie
SUMMERGATE VILLAGE QUILTERS: Fabrics, Fun, & Fellowship of It All
Some like the challenge. For others, it's the friendships and comradery. But it's the connection and joy of helping others that keeps all of them coming back week after week.
For over 30 years, the ladies of Sidney's Summergate Village Quilters have been sharing their passion for making quilts by regularly collaborating on quilting projects, some of which are given to those in need in our community. "We create quilts to hang on the walls of the clubhouse, but it is our passion to create for the benefit of those less fortunate in our community," shares member Dee Reid.
There are about a dozen seniors in this group, and they gather in the clubhouse of Summergate, the retirement community where they all reside. They meet once a week to work on a variety of quilting projects. "We meet Tuesdays at 1 p.m. in the community hall," says Dee. "We have five completed quilts now, with two more to do. Cridge Victoria has contacts for transition houses as well as safe houses for women, so we will complete the quilts and then decide how to distribute them."
Over the years, they've created numerous quilts – some large pieces which decorate the walls, and other smaller lap quilts which are ultimately donated. Local contributions of supplies and expertise have helped to bring the quilt creations into reality. "Arlene Mackenzie is a North Saanich quilter and known to our group. She donated enough fabric for eight quilts," notes Dee.
The group's collaborative efforts positively impact the community. Sometimes personal feedback from recipients is poignant and reminds these quilters of the potential they have to help others. "The first quilt we gave away went to a man who was transitioning from living on the streets to a residence," relates Dee. "We heard from the charitable society through which we arranged the gift. The representative said that the man 'was just beside himself that he had something of his own'."
While they collaborate to make items to benefit others, they also enjoy the sense of
community and inclusivity each week. Sharon Smith notes: "We are all at different levels in quilting. We share ideas and learn from each other. We support each other."
Some are new to the artistic form but draw on skills they developed through other activities they pursued in their lives. "I was a late bloomer and only started quilting in my 60s. I have a stash of fabric originally owned by my mother-in-law which piqued my interest in quilting," relates Dee. "In my career days, I was a printer. I designed projects and delighted in choosing paper textures and colours to best complement the job, not unlike choosing fabric designs and colours for quilting."
Sharon adds: "I transitioned from rug hooking to quilting. When I moved to the West Coast, I took a quilting course with my mom. I finally finished a project I did with my mom some 30 years later!"
As with any artistic endeavour, there are challenges along the way. "Our husbands often help with cutting the fabric," comments Sharon. "This is hard on my hands due to arthritis."
Despite setbacks or problems, the satisfaction in completing a quilt is undeniable. "Sometimes you might get stuck, but you go to the rest of the group and get input like which colour to use or what pattern works best," says Sharon, who adds with a big smile: "I love the personal satisfaction that comes from actually finishing the quilt!"
While it is a regular opportunity for these ladies to develop quilting skills and to collaborate on labour-intensive projects, it is also a way to socialize, laugh, share stories, and spend time with others. This chance for connection is invaluable. "There is a definite social aspect to our group. We're all going through different things like health issues or the loss of a spouse," says Sharon, adding emphatically: "I don't know what I would do without these women!"
Dee enthusiastically adds: "I really look forward doing these projects. I think that no matter your age, you have the ability to create art. If you're lonely, join a group! Get involved in something that interests you."
The strong connections forged in these weekly gatherings bring personal satisfaction, and this celebration of friendship is reflected in their quilts on display. "We have lost members over the years. They've gone on to 'quilting heaven'," says Dee. "We have quilts hanging on the walls, and the members who helped to create them have passed on".
The seniors of Summergate Village Quilters enjoy each other's company as they learn from and encourage each other. Their quilting creations become a gift for others who will truly benefit.
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the
AMICA SENIOR LIFESTYLES.
There is a difference.
We could tell you what makes Amica different from other senior living residences on the Island. But we’d rather show you. After all, what makes us different is different for everyone. Visit us at Amica Beechwood Village or Amica Jubilee House to see how life can be exactly what you want.
Discover the Amica difference for yourself.
by Tina Kelly
Urbanites of the Nature Kind
I live in a concrete jungle, and yet nature is everywhere. For certain, there are trees, bugs and pigeons, but I've witnessed a peregrine falcon on a nearby balcony, a hawk atop a tree in a parking lot, sparrows chattering on my deck, and even a river otter travelling down the road.
Nature isn't "away," only to be found in parks, rural or remote areas. With curiosity and eyes open, we can find nature almost anywhere. These publications shine the light on urban nature.
Chasing Bats and Tracking Rats, Urban Ecology, Community Science, and How We Share Our Cities, Cylita Guy and Cornelia Li (2021).
"Cities can be surprisingly wild places" boasts the cover. Author Cylita Guy is a Toronto-based ecologist and science communicator. The cover goes on to say: "Join Cylita Guy as she shares the exciting adventure of urban ecologists – herself included – whose work shows that studying urban wildlife can help us make cities healthier for all of their inhabitants." There are chapters on bats, rats, coyotes, bees, bears, birds and microplastics. Each chapter ends with an urban ecology challenge to drive home the content.
Expedition Backyard, Rosemary Mosco and Binglin Hu (2022). Follow friends Mole and Vole as they find themselves accidentally transported to the city. In this young learner graphic novel, avid nature journalers, Mole and Vole, record their adventure discovering the city's nature at night, nature underground, nature all around. This book targets children four to eight years old and includes activities to do at home.
Wild City: Meet the Animals Who Share Our City Spaces, Ben Hoare and Lucy Rose (2020).
No passport needed for this world tour. Award-winning journalist, Ben Hoare, presents the urban inhabitants of 17 cities. The first
stop on the itinerary? Vancouver and the wildlife that comes with its seaside location. Berlin, Mumbai, Sydney, New York and Mexico City are among the featured cities. Aside from the cities highlighted, Hoare teaches urban nature in a thematic way – city mammals, city birds, cities at night – and ends with ways to make wildlife welcome. Taking Care of Where We Live, Merrie-Ellen Wilcox and Amanda Key (2024).
Hot off the press! This book was released in September as part of Orca Book Publishers Orca Think series. Orca Think encourages us to question, connect and take action for a better future. In this edition, the issue at hand is caring for ecosystems, near and far. Real world examples are featured in chapters on restoring, rewilding, peopling and acting.
What Matters, Alison Hughes and Holly Hatam (2017).
Another book by local publisher Orca Books. With mixed media illustrated pages, this story shines the spotlight on how one simple act– picking up a single piece of trash – impacts many different animals in the most positive ways.
Our Green City, Tanya Lloyd Kyi and Colleen Larmour (2022). Featuring beautifully busy illustrations akin to a Richard Scarry town, this book invites you to discover the elements that make an ideal sustainable city. Being green, as the book states, means taking care of all living things – people, plants and animals too. People work together to make and maintain this green city; a sense of community is observed on every page. Illustrations draw the reader in to seek and find green features– rain gardens, thrift shops, refill stores, backyard gardens, green roofs, farmers markets, different modes of transport and more. Author Tanya Lloyd Kyi is based in Vancouver.
These books encourage us to find, coexist and care for the wild.
by Cassidy Nunn | photos by Nunn Other Photography
So You Want to Try Horseback Riding!
So your child (or you!) wants to try horseback riding … where to even begin? It can seem overwhelming, especially if you don't know much about the sport, but it doesn't have to be. Here on the Saanich Peninsula there are great options for barns that offer riding lessons, whether you're an adult beginner, an adult who rode as a kid and is hoping to get back into the sport,
or a horse-crazy kid, toddler or teenager! There are many factors to keep in mind when deciding to give the exciting sport of horseback riding a try. The first is finding a barn and a certified coach who are the right fit for your riding goals, your budget and experience level.
Laura Ward is an Equine Canada certified riding instructor at Painted Horse Equestrian and she, along with other coaches at the facility, run the lesson program (ages five and up) and offer spring break and summer riding camps (for ages seven to 12).
New riders interested in their program will attend a meet and greet which offers a tour of the facility, and Laura can gauge the rider's experience and confidence level around horses. She stresses that in the sport, horsemanship is more than just riding.
"I put such a big emphasis on stable management," she says, which means some days lessons will be more focused on an aspect of horsemanship, such as learning about horse first aid, the tack used for riding, feeding, how to set a jump course, the parts of the horse etc. Her students are also taught how to groom and tack up the horse they're going to ride in the lesson (supervised at first but eventually this is a skill that each rider, age dependent, will be expected to do on their own).
She and her colleagues are dedicated to ensuring their horses have the best care, and a big part of their job is balancing the horse's workload, both physically and mentally. "We want to keep them happy and healthy," she says. "If they can't work, we can't work."
Tara Prevedoros has been running her lesson and boarding stable in the same location for close to 10 years. She's also an Equine Canada certified coach, enjoys teaching all ages and welcomes neurodivergent students and kids with various physical abilities. Her lesson program offers horse/farm experiences to those as young as age two and can also accommodate adult riders. When it comes to teaching the really young kids, she says: "I keep it playful and fun and think of new ideas to keep it engaging for the kids." Tara also stresses the importance of having happy horses in her lesson program. "A big part of my program is keeping my horses happy," she says. All her horses get daily year-round turnout in the field in small groups and her retired lesson horses are with her for life. Her barn is a mix of miniature horses, ponies, large horses and the retired ones.
When it comes to riding equipment, some lesson barns will offer the use of a helmet or boots with the correct heel and tread required for a stirrup, but for those who decide to stick with riding and become a part of a regular lesson program, some investment in riding equipment is required. Glynis Schultz, the owner of Greenhawk Vancouver Island, a large tack (horse and riding equipment) store in the heart of Brentwood Bay, says: "the most important thing when starting riding is a really good, safe fitting riding helmet." For horseback riding, not just any helmet will do either. "A bike helmet is designed for a different type of fall so it's not recommended for horseback riding," she adds. A safe and approved riding helmet doesn't have to break the bank, however, with helmets available for under $60. The other important piece of equipment is a good boot with a heel and proper tread; the heel is important as it prevents the foot from potentially becoming stuck in the stirrup if the rider were to have a fall.
Horseback riding lessons can range from $55 for a half hour to over $100 an hour for a private lesson depending on the facility, the length of the lesson and whether there will be more than one rider in the lesson. Some lesson barns now require a monthly commitment to at least one lesson a week and certain barns will offer the option to attend local horse shows, while others are strictly recreational. Riding lessons are an excellent way to get some exercise (and yes, it is in fact exercise – if you've ever ridden before you know that the horse does NOT do all the work!) in the fresh air with an incredible animal. This sport teaches much more than just riding: also responsibility, empathy and hard work, to name just a few of the values that go along with it!
Dr. Matthew Foulkes and his team are committed to providing all our current and new patients a relaxed environment with calm and quality care. Come visit our office and staff!
Our services include but aren't limited to:
• Examinations & Hygiene
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Anna Clemente & Tony Clemente Clemente Property Group
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by Katharina Stocker | photos courtesy NIȽ TU,O Child & Family Services
NIȽ TU,O's Holiday Celebrations Bring Their Mission To Life
NIȽ TU,O's mission is to provide services based on the SNEPENEḴ (teaching) of our SELW ȺN (Elders), coming from the perspective of NUTSUMAT SHQWALUWUN (working together with one mind). And when it comes to building community and celebrating together, there is no time of year this is more evident than the holidays!
This year, NIȽ TU,O staff are happy to carry on the tradition of Christmas celebrations. Children and families supported by NIȽ TU,O's Guardianship, Caregiver, or Youth Agreement services are in for a spectacular holiday season packed with traditional crafts, delicious food cooked by a local Coast Salish Caterer, and fun games.
NIL TU,O staff collaborate to put up a large decorated tree, and decorate all the tables with tablecloths and flower arrangements. They also create a place for Santa and the elves to sit, and arrange the inflatable characters around the room. They set up tables so the children can decorate cookies, make tree decorations and other crafts to ensure children and youth will be delighted by the joy of the season when they walk through the doors of their annual Christmas party. There is also a Christmas-themed photo booth for all the guests to take fun group photos and take home a photo of the fun evening. If previous years are any indicator, guests will meet in a beautifully transformed local community gathering place, where all NIȽ TU,O staff will have created an atmosphere that captures the very essence of Christmas. And after engaging in activities, guests sit down and whichever table sings a Christmas song is the first to serve themselves. Guests visit with each other over a turkey feast with all the trimmings. After dinner, Santa and his elves will make their appearance to bring joy, photo opportunities and meaningful gifts for every child in attendance. Children and youth leave with a full tummy and a smile on their face.
NIȽ TU,O's tradition of giving out Christmas hampers will continue with plans of distributing a total of 75 Christmas hampers brimming with goodies and festive food to Coast Salish children and families who have been working with a Family Support Worker (FSW). Through doing this, NIȽ TU,O offers vital support that makes sure that every family can embrace the holidays to their fullest potential. From hampers to a Christmas feast and gifts, this year's NIȽ TU,O Christmas is sure to be just as unforgettable as previous years. This party is a vital example of the many events NIȽ TU,O puts on each year to actualize the vision and turn the mission into reality. By all working together, (NUTSUMAT SHQWALUWUN) Coast Salish families from the seven communities we serve can experience a bright and happy holiday and the joy of togetherness. To learn more about the mission and NIȽ TU,O services, visit www.niltuo.ca
Peace and joy for the holiday season and all year round!
Community members doing crafts with NIȽ TU,O staff.
by Sherrin Griffin VP, Operations, Sidney SeniorCare
The Agony & Ecstasy of Holiday Family Traditions
As I write this column, the holiday season is fast approaching, and although I adore it, I am painfully aware that this
There were, of course, my Nana's special shortbread cookies, baked to mouth-watering perfection, and shaped beautifully into little
And, the fruitcake … well, I'm certain that the odd penchant for Christmas fruitcake and, even worse, Christmas pudding, came to a grinding halt after my parents' generation. I hope I do not offend anyone with my resounding "Yucko!!"
What I loved was anything and everything gingerbread, and I even took on the painstaking tradition of making a full-on gingerbread house with my childhood friend at the tender age of 12, complete with pretty red cellophane windows and an interior light. Beyond thrilled at my accomplishment, I lovingly brought it home and placed it gingerly on a display table in our family room, only to wake up the next morning in tears when I discovered that while we all slept, our family dog decided to try out the chocolate wafer path and had worked her way right up to the peppermint bark front door!
Even the men in our family got into the spirit of holiday tradition. Every Christmas morning that I can remember as a child, my sister and I got a box of After 8 chocolates from my Grandpa; that was his "thing," along with money envelopes "for his girls" that Grandpa perched in the Christmas tree with brand new crisp dollar bills straight from the
My dear ol' Dad made Christmas extra special, for not only our family but other families as well, with his Santa suit that he would lovingly don every holiday season. Waking up in the middle of the night as a small child, I remember seeing "Santa" by our Christmas tree; my Dad was determined to keep the legend alive
Having survived the trauma of the gingerbread incident, I am nevertheless committed to continuing our family traditions, including one very special tradition of making Linzer cookies which were a favourite of my Dad's. When I make them this holiday season, I'll be sure to set aside a few for him on Christmas Eve. And, maybe, just maybe, he'll come back and visit us again
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Lest We Forget
Brock Nordman
Jean Dunn
Chad Tuggle
Ann Watley
Grilled
Chicken Teriyaki
Chilli Con Carne
Chicken A La King
Classic Meatloaf
Grilled Weiner Schnitzel
Spinach & Ricotta Ravioli
Brussel Sprouts Almondine
Candied Butter Yams
Roast Potatoes
Turkey Pan Gravy Cranberry Sauce
Focus Hair Design:
Festiveness is in the H-air!
by Kelly Finerty
This is part of a rotating series of articles about some of the Saanich Peninsula's unique shops and services.
The brisk winter holidays have settled in nicely, with many of us thinking about ways to capture the magic of the season, giving back to the community, and feeling confident in holiday photos.
Focus Hair Design in Sidney is in the holiday spirit every year, and this season they are planning exciting deals, gift baskets, draws and fantastic winter sales; you won't want to miss out!
Holiday deals run to the end of December including Loma Gift Packs, and a "Build your own Gift Basket" where you can choose from their three primary brands: Loma, Neuma and Design Me. Perfect for that festive gift to buy for someone important in your life, it's buy two products, get 10% off; buy three, get 15% off; buy four, get 20% off and buy six, get 25% off!
The salon will also be hosting an annual holiday gift basket draw for two gift baskets filled with their best hair care essentials. Plus, with chocolates, Prosecco and many other delicious treats, this is a special way to celebrate you or someone you love! Customers can enter to win now by simply pre-booking their next two appointments with the salon. That's it! Entries for the draw are accepted until Friday, December 20. The winners will be announced shortly after, giving time to pick up prizes before the holiday weeks ahead.
Purchasing products and services from the salon is always a feelgood activity as Focus is a regulated Green Circle Certified business, meaning they always find innovative ways to protect the environment while still doing what they love – hair! You might be interested to know the salon has kept pounds of disposable material out of the landfills, and counting from January 2024 to October 2024 they have sent over 55 lbs of hair, nearly 36 lbs of hair colour, almost 136 lbs of metals, 155 lbs of plastics, and approaching 280 lbs of paper to Green Circle, protecting the Earth at large.
Focus Hair Design would like to say a very merry thank you to all their clients and the community for the continued years of support. They love building long-lasting relationships with new and continuing clients, while working to create your desired cut, style and hair colour. Always adding sugar, spice and everything nice this holiday season to boost your confidence and swagger, happy holidays from Focus Hair Design!
Visit Focus Hair Design at #102-2527 Beacon Avenue in Sidney. They are open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Mondays by appointment.
These are the perfect gifts … for you or someone else! Gift cards also available; a great gift alternative!
of
Via Choralis Christmas Concert
Involves
the Audience
by Delia McCrae
Via Choralis has been entertaining Sidney audiences for 25 years. This Christmas, audience participation will be a key part of the performance, with much-loved carol favourites interspersed throughout the choir's carefully curated program. In this choral performance, Via Choralis is inviting you to sing along. The Christmas Concert takes place December 15 at 2 p.m., in St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church, 10030 Third Street, Sidney.
The 40-voice ensemble will present familiar classics, including an arrangement of the Boar's Head Carol by the choir's founder, Nicholas Fairbanks, a local composer who is now the conductor of the Sooke Philharmonic. In addition, Canadian composer Sarah Quartel's exciting new four-part arrangement of the Huron Carol, entitled Iesous Ahatonnia, is included on the program. Other beautiful seasonal music by European and Canadian composers along with lively folk tunes will be sure to delight concert goers, making it a memorable experience.
"The centrepiece of the concert is the extended Fantasia on Christmas Carols by English composer Ralph Vaughn Williams, featuring baritone soloist Alex Chen and Larry Skaggs on cello, accompanied by Yousef Shadian," says Kathryn Whitney, artistic director of Via Choralis. This enchanting work from 1912 has remained popular with audiences and choral groups alike.
Via Choralis' artistic director, Kathryn Whitney, who has performed in England and throughout Europe, was formerly a music lecturer at Oxford. She also directs the Newcombe Singers in Oak Bay and other local choral ensembles. Whitney enjoys working with amateur
musicians and welcomes newcomers to the choir. Following the Christmas concert, the Via Choralis will reconvene in January 2025 with regular Monday evening rehearsals. For choir-related information email president@viachoralis.ca or viachoralis@kathrynwhitney.net
Let the joy and wonder of Christmas music presented by Sidney's own Via Choralis warm your heart and brighten your Christmas season this December. You'll be filled with the sounds of the season when you join in the Christmas cheer. Listen to outstanding classic and contemporary choral arrangements and sing along to your favourite carols at this wonderful seasonal celebration.
Tickets available at Tanner's Books, Seaberry Garden & Flower (Mattick's Farm), and at the door or from choir members. Adults $35; children 12 and under $10. Photo courtesy Via Choralis.
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S CREEN SCENE
by Tabatha Golat
WE LIVE IN TIME: EMOTIONAL IMPACT & DEEP AUTHENTICITY
Every once in a while, I see a movie trailer and immediately know the film will become a new favourite. That's how I felt about We Live In Time. After getting teary-eyed during the trailer, I knew it would be a heartbreaker, but I didn't expect its emotional impact to linger for days. We Live In Time is a deeply moving exploration of grief, love and relationships that tugs at the heartstrings before ultimately breaking them.
We Live In Time premiered at the Toronto Film Festival in September 2024 to positive reviews, with critics praising the performances of stars Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield. Now in theatres, this romantic comedy-drama follows a non-linear narrative detailing the relationship between Almut (Pugh), a Michelin-starred chef, and Tobias (Garfield), a Weetabix salesman, over the span of a decade. Director John Crowley masterfully balances the film's tone, blending major life events with quiet, everyday interactions that make the couple's love feel both real and lived-in. This approach invites the audience into the relationship with a unique intimacy that's rarely achieved on screen.
The film's non-linear timeline makes the plot tricky to sum up, yet the effect is profound. It opens with Almut's cancer diagnosis and her difficult choice: undergo a year of chemotherapy and endure its toll, or live for six months and cherish her remaining time with Tobias. Through flashbacks, we see how they met – Almut accidentally hits Tobias with her car as he retrieves a pen he just bought to sign his divorce papers. Flash forward and the couple is at a diner, carefully breaking the news of Almut's diagnosis to their daughter. Another flashback delivers one of the film's most memorable scenes – Almut giving birth in a gas station bathroom, a scene both touching and hilarious.
The story is beautifully told, but it's Pugh and Garfield's performances that truly make the film. Their chemistry feels deeply authentic, and their relationship, complete with its highs and lows, is entirely believable. Both characters are flawed in ways that make them endearing and their vulnerabilities ultimately strengthen their bond, pulling viewers in even further.
We Live In Time reminds us of how relationships are remembered through moments big and small, messy, beautiful, sad and joyful. Telling a subtle story this way is challenging without obvious cues like a narrator or title cards, but Crowley executes it flawlessly.
For more films that play with timelines and tug at your heart, check out these recommendations:
1. 500 Days of Summer, Disney+
2. Little Women, Netflix
3. Arrival, Apple TV
4. Away From Her, Netflix
Event Guide
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Monk Office / Island Blue Merger
submitted by Monk Office
Monk Office is excited to announce the merger of Island Blue Art & Framing with our current space at 9839 Fifth Street, Sidney, culminating on the reopening of the new and enhanced Monk Office & Art on November 25, 2024. The new space provides customers with a vibrant shopping experience, bringing all the products and services from both stores into one convenient location. Customers can expect an expanded selection of fine art supplies, office products, business and creative services, unique local gifts, and more!
Monk Office & Art is located at 9839 Fifth Street, Sidney (previously Monk Office), and will bring together the best of both brands. Customers will be able to experience a large assortment of high-quality art supplies, custom framing services, office supplies, copy and print services, furniture, ink and toner, stationery, and a curated selection of local and artisanal gifts, all under one roof.
Join us and Ocean 98.5 on Saturday, December 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., as we celebrate this exciting new chapter and Sidney's Monk Office & Art at 9839 Fifth Street! Enjoy a day filled with giveaways, activities and special discounts.
While we will truly miss the space at 2455 Beacon Avenue, we are excited to continue honouring our Island Blue Art & Framing customers with the top-quality fine art supplies and custom framing services they have come to rely on from us at Monk Office & Art. Monk Office & Art blends creativity with productivity and offering essentials for the office, studio, and home. Monk Office & Art combines the trusted expertise of Monk Office with the creative spirit of Island Blue Art & Framing. Together, we are dedicated to serving our Sidney community with an extensive range of quality products and services. Celebrate this exciting new chapter and visit us to experience it!
Whether you are new to the area, going through a life transition, or unhappy with your current situation, you will find that Deborah takes a unique approach when working with her clients.
Whether you are new to the area, going through a life transition, or unhappy with your current situation, you will find that Deborah takes a unique approach when working with her clients.
Deborah’s 25 years of experience in the investment industry has resulted in her having a greater understanding of an investor’s needs and their tolerance to volatility, which allows her the ability to effectively guide investors through the ups and downs of today’s markets.
Her 25 years of experience in the investment industry is her guide when working with investors. Deborah realizes that building a strong client relationship is rooted in trust and transparency. The foundation for a strong relationship is ensuring compatibility and effective communication. Investors want to know that their financial advisor is committed to their success and willing to take the time to listen to what is important to help them determine their goals.
She has successfully guided investors through many market cycles by ensuring that her clients are invested in a balance of suitable products. Determining the appropriate blend of investments that focus on preserving capital, generating income, or providing growth is key to finding a client’s comfort level.
It may surprise many to learn that investing is often not about achieving the ‘highest rate of return’, but rather having confidence that their financial advisor understands their goals and will prepare an investment plan to achieve those goals. What one investor considers important, another may not, therefore, goals, plans, and solutions are as unique as the individual, so too should be the portfolio!
The greatest threat to long-term investing is selling growthoriented investments during turbulent markets. History has proven that selling an investment with the expectation of purchasing it later (market timing) is not a successful investment strategy. An experienced financial advisor will ensure that the investor does not sabotage their long-term goals, and this starts with having a thorough understanding of the investor, such as past experiences, current investment knowledge, family situation, health concerns, and financial goals, both short and long-term.
Experience matters when it comes to guiding investors through turbulent markets.
Although setting goals, determining the appropriate asset allocation, implementing a strategy, building a portfolio, and monitoring investments are essential to successful investing, the most important factor is the amount of time that the professional spends with the investor. The more investment knowledge and understanding of the markets that an investor has, the greater the chances are for success. When investors are prepared for volatility and understand the emotional roller coaster that can be experienced during market corrections, the less chance they have of making decisions based on emotion rather than discipline and logic.
Preparing an investor for volatility helps the investor ride out the emotional roller coaster that one can experience during a market correction. Effective communication with the investor is essential to ensure that investment decisions are based on logic rather than emotion.
A financial advisor who has experience guiding investors through these market corrections is an invaluable asset to achieving one’s financial goals.
A financial advisor who has experience guiding investors through these market corrections is an invaluable asset to achieving one’s financial goals.
Don’t take chances with your financial success because experience truly does matter!
Don’t take chances with your financial success because experience truly does matter!
www.raymondjames.ca/deborahreid
The Town is accepting applications from residents wishing to get involved in the community by volunteering their time serving as a member on the following Board and Commissions:
• Advisory Planning Commission
• Board of Variance
• Peninsula Recreation Commission
If you are a Sidney resident and have experience in relation to residential or commercial building development or in recreational services, please consider applying.
Application forms are available on the Town's website and the deadline for submissions to the Town of Sidney, 2440 Sidney Avenue is 4:00 pm, Monday, December 9, 2024, or by email at admin@sidney.ca.
ROBIN EVAN WILLIS Registered Clinical Counsellor
Facing life’s challenges is easier with someone by your side.
As a registered clinical counsellor in downtown Sidney, I am here to support you, providing a safe, welcoming space to explore your experiences and build resilience. Using evidence-based approaches, I specialize in helping you overcome anxiety, boost self-esteem, manage stress, and navigate life transitions. From teens to adults, I provide compassionate care tailored to your needs. Let’s begin your journey toward healing and growth together.
www.counsellingwithrobin.com
Understanding & Addressing Elder Abuse
by Tasleem Jessani, Simplified Living Transitions, Mango Tango Interiors
Elder abuse is a distressing reality that often hides in the shadows of society. Defined as any intentional or negligent act by a caregiver or trusted individual that causes harm or distress to an older person, elder abuse is a grave violation of human rights and dignity. Despite its prevalence, elder abuse remains vastly underreported and misunderstood.
Forms of Elder Abuse:
Elder abuse encompasses various forms, including physical abuse, emotional or psychological abuse, financial exploitation, neglect and sexual abuse. Physical abuse involves the use of force that results in bodily injury, pain or impairment. Emotional abuse entails inflicting mental anguish, fear or distress through verbal or non-verbal actions. Financial exploitation involves unauthorised or improper use of an elder's funds, property, or assets. Neglect occurs when caregivers fail to provide necessary care, leading to harm or endangerment. Sexual abuse involves non-consensual sexual contact with an older person.
Underlying Causes
Several factors contribute to the occurrence of elder abuse, including ageism, social isolation, caregiver stress, and dependency. Ageism perpetuates stereotypes and prejudices against older adults, making them more vulnerable to abuse. Social isolation increases the risk of abuse as it limits opportunities for social interaction and support. Caregiver stress, often resulting from the burden of caregiving responsibilities, can lead to frustration and mistreatment of elders. Dependency on caregivers for physical or financial assistance can also make older adults susceptible to exploitation and neglect.
Prevention and Intervention
Preventing and addressing elder abuse requires a multi-faceted approach involving education, awareness and support services. Public education campaigns can raise awareness about the signs
and consequences of elder abuse, encouraging individuals to speak out and seek help. Training programs for caregivers and healthcare professionals can equip them with the skills to recognize and respond to elder abuse effectively. Establishing support networks and community resources for older adults can reduce social isolation and provide avenues for assistance. Legal protections and elder abuse hotlines offer recourse for victims and facilitate intervention in cases of abuse or exploitation.
Elder abuse is a complex and pervasive issue that demands urgent attention and action. By understanding the various forms of abuse, addressing underlying causes, and implementing preventive measures, we can work towards creating a society where older adults are treated with the respect, dignity, and care they deserve. Together, we can break the silence surrounding elder abuse and ensure the safety and well-being of our aging population.
For more information, call 778-922-5715 or visit https://www. houzz.com/pro/mangotangointeriors/__public.
CAROLS FOR CHRISTMAS
“Fantasia on Christmas
Artistic Director: Kathryn Whitney | Pianist: Yousef Shadian Guest Soloists: Alex Chen, Baritone & Larry Skaggs, Cello
Carols”
SEASIDE HOMES
by Janice Henshaw
Outdoor Decorating Ideas to Celebrate the Holidays
Isn't it great to sit outside 12 months of the year? We are lucky enough to do this on the coast due to fire pits, propane heaters, outdoor lights, weatherproof furniture and the protection of structures such as gazebos and covered patios in all kinds of weather – even if it snows! So, it's natural that we have a great interest in decorating these spaces.
A quick and easy step is adding fresh greenery to our window boxes and planters – they will look attractive all winter. Peat moss or sand can be added to the soil mix if it is too heavy or wet, just enough so that it's easy to poke in twigs, holly with berries, freshly cut branches of cedar, balsam fir, and pine. Their scent is heavenly! If you want them to glow at night, place a coil of battery-operated LED lights on the soil mix.
A display of hearty shrubs and small trees in colourful painted or burlap-wrapped pots will also look cheery. At Christmas, decorate them with bells, striped ribbons, and mini-lights. Colourful glass or plastic ball ornaments, candy canes and pine or fir cones will all add a festive air. To go big, especially if you don't have room inside your home, place your Christmas tree outside on your deck or patio. A live Christmas tree will much prefer outside temperatures to a warm house. Sing along to carols, pop some corn, and have fun decorating it with family and friends.
Lights are so magical! Starlight, moonlight and candlelight all seem to offer a promise to us. On dark, stormy nights, a house with outdoor festive lights gives off a spirit-lifting welcome. LED lights can brighten dark corners, make pathways and stairs safer for guests and create a festive air. Mini and icicle lights can be battery-powered, solar, or corded electric and come in various warm or cold white or multiple colours. Fairy string lights are especially dramatic at night and can be hung on walls, outdoor fireplace mantles, roofs, around doors and windows, on decks and porches, stair rails and trees.
Curtain lights hang from a top string and can display shapes such as stars of different sizes. The multiple strings of lights give the appearance of a cascading sheet of twinkling lights that can be programmed to fade slow or fast, stay on steadily, twinkle, blink or chase, and most come with a memory function so that they automatically turn on to the last setting used. If they don't come in the colour you want, you can hang a sheer fabric over white lights to create your own ambience. Some of the 300-light 10- by 10-foot curtains can run on three triple-A batteries, a USB plug to a power bank, a port hub, or a regular phone charger base. No need for an extension cord!
Wood or metal displays for the lawn or home can be creative and fun; they are durable, too, and can be repainted over time. There are many choices – Santas and Grinches on stakes, snowflakes to hang from the eaves, colourful gift boxes with ribbons, solar owls or Santas, Snowpeople, reindeer, Christmas trees and solar fireworks, to name a few. These displays, either bought or, better yet, home-crafted, will last longer than plastic blow-up displays.
Firepits placed under protective cover, such as a gazebo or deck, provide a relaxing place to unwind as you relax and watch the dancing light. It also provides a great gathering place to enjoy the company of family and friends. Add an indoor/outdoor rug, draw in some all-weather chairs around the fire and snuggle up in cozy blankets and pillows. Play some of your favourite music and enjoy the wonder of looking up at the stars. It feels pretty good to be warm and dry while you listen to the rhythm of winter rain, which is often missed because of our well-insulated homes. This is another good place to put your Christmas tree decorated with twinkling lights.
When entertaining guests, it's handy to have a patio serving cart with wheels that you can decorate with a vase of flowers or greenery. Prepare some appetizers and seasonal beverages –hot cider or Gluhwein (a hot spiced red wine drink) and spicy Chai, green or herbal teas. Mixing up some wicked cocktails might be fun – a traditional old-fashioned, espresso martini, the warmth of a Moscow Mule, or a little shot of Drambuie made from honey and spices. Hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and some chocolate shavings is another sure-fire winner, especially with the younger crowd.
To ensure a safe Christmas for your family, remind them to take outdoor safety precautions. Ensure there is no danger of shock
from lights and that all candles are out of reach so that they won't be explored or knocked over by little tykes and pets. Only use an extension cord outside if it is classified as weather resistant; they aren't waterproof, so never immerse their plug and outlet ends in water. Indoor extension cords have less durable outer coverings and are usually shorter and lighter by comparison. Please do not climb on rain-slicked or icy, snowy roofs to hang Christmas lights – so many people have been injured in falls from roofs at Christmas. Either hire someone who specializes in hanging lights or be safe and hang lights around doors, windows, and in the branches of trees. Another option is to buy coloured floodlights and position them to beam on your house or light up your trees –not on your neighbours! It's a good idea to be mindful of those who live next door – too many lights may interfere with their enjoyment of a dark sky.
The best winter outdoor decorations are often free – crystals of light reflecting off newly fallen snow, the magic of frost etched on branches and windows. A child bundled up in a snowsuit with cherubic red cheeks. Warm hugs, the feel of a warm hand in yours. The sound of carols in the night air. Being enveloped in the love of family and friends. I wish all of it for you – and may your heart fill with undimmable optimism and hope to bring in the New Year.
"Hope sees the invisible, feels the intangible, and achieves the impossible." - Helen Keller.
CONSTRUCTION
HOT PROPERTIES
In the heart of Cordova Bay, this immaculate 3bd/2ba home has had many recent updates and is move-in ready! Highlights of this airy, open 2,112sf floor plan include vaulted ceilings, hardwood flooring, picture windows, gas FP, MAIN FLOOR PRIMARY Bedroom with ensuite. Private, quiet, west facing patio and double garage. MLS 964657
Ingrid Jarisz* 250.385.2033 (personal real estate corp*)
A sought-after townhouse community that offers an Arts & Crafts inspired, quality built home in the upscale SAYWARD HILL neighbourhood in idyllic Cordova Bay. This tastefully updated 3,238sf, 4 Bed/4 Bath home offers the option of main level living with many tasteful updates, amazing storage and a double garage. MLS 980082
Ingrid Jarisz* 250.385.2033 (personal real
Victoria's Best VIEWS & LIFESTYLE $1,950,000
Overlooking world-class golf at Cordova Bay, sandy beaches, walking/biking trails, shops at Mattick's Farm all nearby. premiere, 2008 JAWL DEV. concrete/steel building is sought-after with its spectacular views, amazing layout, quality finishing and perfect positioning. Elegant home, meticulously maintained offering 2BD, 2BA, 1,856sf, with designer inspired updates Secure U/G parking with EV Charging & storage too! MLS 978028
Ingrid Jarisz* 250.385.2033 (personal real estate corp*)
Ingrid Jarisz* 250.385.2033 (personal real estate corp*) DISCOVER YOUR VERY OWN
$2,900,000
In the heart of Mount Newton Valley where Old World charm is evident in this European styled home with exposed beams, vaulted ceilings, stone fireplace & leaded French doors. Custom built with 4 beds/4 baths and approx. 3,562sqft. Lovingly maintained & landscaped gardens surround this home, and the balance of the nearly 5 acres is an expansive nature retreat. MLS 974883
HOT PROPERTIES
OCEANFRONT DREAM HOME $998,000
Top-floor, newly and fully updated, 2BR, 2BA corner unit with sweeping ocean views from all primary rooms. Custom cabinetry, luxurious quartz countertops, top-of-the-line appliances. Premium amenities: guest suites, clubhouse, exercise room, tennis court, indoor pool, sauna, hot tub, workshop. Convenient location to Sidney and Victoria. MLS 979762
Mariann Abram* 250.884.6796 (personal real estate corp*)
VIBRANT AND SOCIAL 55+ COMMUNITY $449,900
Feel like part of the family with a wide range of social activities in this pet friendly community. Bright 2BR, 2BA with secure parking. In-suite laundry with abundant storage. Premium amenities include social room, shared BBQ, guest suites, workshop. On bus routes and minutes to groceries, restaurants and VGH. MLS 979658
Mariann Abram* 250.884.6796 (personal real estate corp*)
Custom-built 5Bdr & 5Bath remarkable family home on 0.99-acre with distant ocean and mountain views offers unmatched privacy and serenity. Suite or Cottage potential! DBL car garage with workshop and RV parking completes this gardener's paradise. 10min to amenities in Sidney, the Airport and the Ferry. MLS 979094 PRIVACY & SERENITY $1,749,000
Mariann Abram* 250.884.6796 (personal real estate corp*)
GORGEOUS OAK BAY PENTHOUSE built 2020 with beautiful top-of-the-line finishing, Heat-pump & gas fire place. Rare 3Bdrs, 2Bth,1684sf plus 228sf spacious & sunny balcony! 2parking spaces, EV charging, and building has concierge. Short walk to Willows Beach, shops, cafes & groceries MLS 977730
LUXURIOUS PENTHOUSE $1,799,000 PH3-2285 Bowker Ave, Oak Bay Nicole Burgess | 250.384.8124 nicole@nicoleburgess.com
NEW PRICE! Welcome to this Inviting Executive 3 bedroom, 3 bath Zebra-Designed duplex that feels like a Single Family home (no strata fees or meetings!) offering Incredible Value and Designer features, with thousands spent on tasteful updating both inside & out.
The Architectural details include high ceilings, crown moldings, a magazine-worthy spiral staircase, kitchen with stainless appliances, engineered hardwood floors, quartz counters and heated tile floors, gas fireplace, plantation shutters, lovely private backyard, single garage and shed ... the list goes on and on! Priced at below Assessed Value. Now $917,000 ... Book Your Showing , and anchor Seaside Living today! MLS.977908 BRENTWOOD BAY MARCHANT MAGIC
Enchanting two-acre waterfront, complete with its own private dock, stables, cottage, & orchard. Steeped in history and brimming with potential, this property offers endless possibilities, subdivision potential or private oasis. You'll be captivated by the English country charm of this architecturally designed home and the chance to own a piece of history in this truly unique property. MLS 974865
Maryan van Stolk* 250.385.2033 (personal real estate corp*)
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own one of the most unique southwestern points on the Saanich Inlet, boasting spectacular vistas with 360-degree views, Both the home and guest cottage are situated at the water's edge, providing an unparalleled closeness to the ocean. Approximately 1000 feet of ocean frontage and a private island connected by a footbridge make this undeniably the best in Deep Cove. MLS 968949
OCEANFRONT 1.75 ACRES $3,390,000
Stunning 200 feet of Oceanfront with unobstructed views. Sitting on 1.75 acres this 2009 home was built strategically on the lot to allow for potential future development. Enjoy spectacular sunrises & continuous marine life on this sun drenched property. With approx. 3000 sq ft on one level with additional bonus rooms upstairs, each room has breathtaking views. MLS 965112
Maryan van Stolk*
TOWNHOUSE ON SALT SPRING ISLAND
find in Ganges on Salt Spring Island. 1900sf Grace Point
with 3 bed 2.5 bath on 3 levels with garage. Spacious layout with expansive windows and 180-degree harbour views. Upgraded with premium finishings and impeccably maintained. Many high-end features including chef's kitchen, oak floors, gas fireplaces, heated tile, air-jetted tub. Secured private marina included.
$1,900,000 For sale by owner: Susan 604.880.3551 FILLED WITH AMAZING GIFTS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
*one entry per person, per issue. Each entrant is eligible to win the Seaside box giveaway no more than once per calendar year. Find the image of the box hidden somewhere in this issue. HOW TO PLAY?
Visit www.seasidemagazine.ca/SeasideBox by December 31st to let us know where you found it.
Congratulations to October’s winner, Carol B.
Thanks to October’s Community Partners:
• Brentwood Bay Village Empourium
• Burl & Blossom
• Country Bee Honey Farm
• Ecotopia Naturals
• McTavish Academy of Art
• muffet & louisa
• Provenance Fine Things
2024 Saanichton Community Christmas: Feeding Families
submitted by Saanichton Village Association
Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 7
from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m! Looking for a festive way to kick off the holiday season with family and friends? The Saanichton Village Association (SVA) is thrilled to invite you to the 20th Annual Saanichton Community Christmas Feeding Families event in support of the Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank! This beloved tradition brings our community together for a day of fun, holiday spirit and giving back to those in need. We're aiming to make this year's event the biggest and best yet, and we have a mighty goal of raising $13,000 this year!
Start your day (9 to 11:30 a.m.) with a delicious pancake breakfast at St. Mary Church (East Saanich Road and Cultra Avenue) put on by the Central Saanich Lions Club. And guess who will be there? Santa! Make sure to stop by for a photo with the man in red. Breakfast and photos are by donation to the Food Bank.
After breakfast, the festivities continue throughout Saanichton Village. Warm up with a hot drink from Fresh Cup Roastery Café and grab your Christmas Tree Trail Map. It's time to explore local businesses and hunt for the famous Tally Ho stuffed horses, with special treats awaiting you along the way. Visit the red Saanichton Village
Association tent over at Pioneer Square for popcorn and hot chocolate, and to drop off your Food Bank donations. Peninsula Pizza will be serving up their famous cinnamon buns and pizza to keep you fuelled for your day. Looking for even more fun for the kids? Don't miss cookie decorating at the Saanich Pioneer Museum! You can decorate your cookies there or pick up a cookie decorating kit and take it home with you.
And – drumroll, please – the Tally-Ho horses are back by popular demand again this year! Experience the magic of Christmas with a horse-drawn carriage ride through the village. Cost is $40 for up to six people to enjoy this unforgettable holiday experience, with all proceeds going directly to the Food Bank. Prebook your ride at www.saanichtonvillage.com to guarantee your spot and receive a tax receipt for your donation. This is more than just an event – it's an opportunity to support local businesses, make memories with your loved ones, and give back to the community. Whether you're a long-time attendee or a first-time visitor, you won't want to miss this festive day in Saanichton. We can't wait to see you there!
The Saanichton Village Association is a small but mighty group of people who love Saanichton and want to foster a Village-like culture in our special little corner of the Saanich Peninsula.
Take Note
What to See & Where to Be
by Don Descoteau
COME ONE, COME ALL:
Peninsula Singers present Deck the Halls
FRIDAY-SUNDAY, DEC. 6 & 7 (7:30PM), DEC. 8 (2PM)
Choir invites Christmas revellers to celebrate the season
Annual concert a December mainstay at Charlie White Theatre
The Peninsula Singers' newest holiday production is much more than the song it's named for.
Choir artistic director Lena Palermo's description of the jolly, 18-century carol encapsulates the spirit of this year's show. "It's a spirited invitation to gather and celebrate with friends and family," she says of Deck the Halls. The singers will put a new twist on this old-time favourite, performing an arrangement made popular by Pentatonix. Singing traditional and contemporary Christmas music in styles from pop to jazz, swing to rock and classical choral, the choir is backed by pianist Janet Yonge, guitarist Ryan Lainchbury, violinist Jessica Natale Woollard, percussionist Terry Erskine and bassist Ben Fast.
Special guests include dancers from Stages Dance Company, who will perform original routines, and up-and-coming musical theatre artist Sonja Ayala.
Last month Peninsula Singers gave a sneak preview to extended care patients at Saanich Peninsula Hospital, and a $2,500 donation toward the hospital's music therapy program, pushing the amount given by the group all-time to more than $57,000.
Tickets are $39 for adults, $20 for children, available online at tickets.marywinspear.ca, by phone at 250-656-0275 or at the box office. Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for the Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank.
Photo courtesy Saanich Peninsula Legion
Photo courtesy Peninsula Singers
by Don Descoteau
Gingerbread Challenge
Panorama Recreation Centre
1885 Forest Park Drive, North Saanich
ONGOING IN DEC
Gingerbread houses crafted by community members are displayed in the rec centre lobby through Dec. 31 as part of the CFAX Santas Anonymous challenge. Visitors vote for their favourites and the winning builders receive a prize. All proceeds from builders' entry fees go toward the charity.
Adult Art Classes Abound
McTavish Academy of Art
1720 McTavish Road, North Saanich
ONGOING IN DEC
McTavish Academy has a variety of one-day art classes in December, from clay candle holder-making Dec. 5 and 12, to mandala illustration Dec. 14 and a multi-medium painting workshop Dec. 15 focusing on composition. Details on this and other classes at mctavishacademy.ca
Candy Canes & Carols
Mary Winspear Centre
2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney
DEC 1 2PM
South Island Harmony, an a cappella men's chorus, presents a diverse repertoire of seasonal and traditional favourites sung in four-part harmony. Guests include award-winning flautist Miya Doak, the Trounce Alley Quartet and the Secret Fourmula Quartet. Tickets $30 adults, $15 students online at tickets.marywinspear.ca or call 250-656-0275 or visit the box office.
THROUGH DEC 5
Potters by the Sea
ArtSea Gallery/Tulista Park
DAILY 10AM-4PM
9565 Fifth Street, Sidney
With more than 100 members, the South Vancouver Island Potters Guild supports and develops local clay artists with interactive programming and peer support. Potters by the Sea showcases work from 11 talented guild members, ranging from functional to decorative.
DEC 1-20
Artist Open House
Odette Laroche Gallery
204-2527 Beacon Avenue, Sidney
DAILY 11AM-4PM SUNDAY 12-4PM
Meet the artist and chat about everything from Old Masters' techniques to modern methods of painting. Laroche will give demos daily and give away sketches to visitors. The gallery features original oils, from abstract to impressionism and post-impressionism, with subjects ranging from seascapes and landscapes to portraits. Visit www.odettelarocheart.com
Christmas at Kildara Farms
Kildara Farms
DEC 1, 8, 15 & 22
11293 Chalet Road, North Saanich
Festive lights and seasonal decorations get visitors in the spirit as do photos with Santa, crafting centrepieces, ornaments and bird feeders and decorating cookies. Enjoy hot chocolate, mulled cider and s'mores at the bonfire. Mrs. Claus's kitchen will offer other snacks and drinks. Tickets $30; under two free. Event goes rain or shine. Follow @freshviewevents on Instagram.
Panthers Hockey at Home
Panorama Recreation Centre
1885 Forest Park Drive, North Saanich
DEC 6, 13 & 21
Cheer on the Peninsula Panthers as they battle Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League rivals. The Panthers have been at or near the top of the league all season. Puck drop is 7:30 p.m. for Friday games vs. Port Alberni (Dec. 6) and Westshore (Dec. 13), and Saturday, Dec. 21 vs. Saanich. Tickets, $12 for adults, $9 for students 13-18 and $2 for 12 and under, are available at the door.
Garden
City Potters Show & Sale
Holy Trinity Anglican Church
1319 Mills Road, North Saanich
DEC 7 10AM-4PM
This event showcases the work of group members who meet regularly to share their pottery experiences and challenges. On display will be an eclectic variety of sculptural, whimsical and functional ceramics. Admission is free and parking is plentiful on site.
Classical, Jazz, in Spotlight
St. Paul's United Church
DEC 7 & 14 2PM
2410 Malaview Avenue, Sidney
The Saturday matinee concert series continues at St. Paul's, starting Dec. 7 with the classical music series by Die Mahler Ensemble. On the 14th, Maureen Washington brings her jazz and blues stylings to the room. Admission is $25, seniors and students $18, under-12 free. Find tickets at the church office, Tanner's Books or on www.eventbrite.ca
Christmas Market
Patio Gardens
DEC 7 10AM-4PM
6536 West Saanich Road, Saanichton
With over 80 local artists and vendors, you're sure to find something special. Enjoy festive music by the Victoria Conservatory of Music, and indulge in the offerings from tasty food trucks. Admission is by cash donation, with proceeds supporting the Living Edge Food Bank. Visit www.patiogardens.ca for more information.
Via Choralis Christmas
Carol Concert
St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church
10030 Third Street, Sidney
DEC 15 2PM
This concert highlights contemporary and traditional carols such as Fantasia on Christmas Carols, Iesous Ahatonnia (the Huron Carol), The Boar's Head Carol and Sure on This Shining Night. Kathryn Whitney directs the choir, accompanied by Yousef Shadian. Guest artists are baritone Alex Chang and cellist Larry Skaggs. Tickets are $35 for adults, $10 for children, available at Tanner's Books, from choir members or at the door.
A Child's Christmas in Wales
Holy Trinity Anglican Church
1319 Mills Road, North Saanich
DEC 15 7PM
The acting and singing husband-wife team of Russell Roberts and Colleen Winton join multi-talented son Gower Roberts at Holy Trinity Anglican Church for this holiday production, based on the book by Dylan Thomas. Admission by donation, with festive reception to follow.
Sidney Community Christmas Singalong
SHOAL Centre
10030 Resthaven Drive, Sidney
DEC 21 2:30PM
Enjoy singing along (or simply listening) to your favourite Christmas carols and songs. A free public event sponsored by West Coast REACH Association and Beacon Community Services. Also including the REACH! Children's Chorus. www.westcoastreach.org
Peninsula Players
Cinderella the Panto DEC 21-28
Mary Winspear Centre
2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney
The magic of Cinderella and the interactive fun of a panto combine in Peninsula Players' newest holiday production. Directed by Allan Haynes, music direction by Andy Dawson Reid and choreography by Charlotte Denton. Showtimes 2 p.m. Dec. 21, 22, 26 and 28; and 7 p.m. Dec. 23 and 27. Visit tickets.marywinspear.ca, call 250-6560275 or drop by the box office.
ONGOING
Saanich Peninsula Stroke Recovery Association Communication Group
Mondays | 10am-12pm
Seventh Day Adventist Church
10-11am: Social time – coffee/tea/cookies. 11am-12pm: Individual groups for:
• those requiring speech improvement led by a Speech Language Pathologist
• those with physical disabilities led by a Kinesiologist
• caregivers, led by an experienced convenor www.spstrokerecovery.org
Seniors Speak Toastmasters
Tuesdays | 10-11am | Virtual
Saanich Peninsula Toastmasters offers a great way to speak and socialize from the comfort of your home. For details about this online opportunity, email mastermotivators4671@gmail.com with the subject line: Seniors Toastmasters. Visit 1288.toastmastersclubs.org
The Socrates Café
2nd & 4th Tuesdays | 2-4pm
(No meeting Dec. 24) Beacon Brewing
Do you enjoy philosophy and exploring a variety of topics and perspectives with others? The Socrates Café, part of a global movement designed to inspire curiosity, nurture self-discovery and grassroots democracy, invites you to drop by to listen, share your thoughts and meet new people
Afternoon Bingo
1st & 3rd Wednesday | 1-4pm Centre for Active Living 50+
These everyone welcome games take place in the lower hall, next to the public library. The third Wednesday features hot dogs and pop for sale starting at noon.
Caregivers Connect:
BC's Virtual Caregiver Café
2nd Thursday | 2-3:30pm
This peer support group is open to all caregivers. Please register at www.form.jotform.com/ 230336162808251 or email cgsupport@ familycaregiversbc.ca.
Repair Cafe North Saanich
3rd Saturday | 10am-1pm Deep Cove School
Have something for Take Note?
Email: takenote@seasidemagazine.ca
Submission deadline: 1st of the previous month (eg December 1 for January issue events)
Able volunteers help community members learn more about making minor repairs to everything from electrical appliances and fixtures to bicycles, wood furniture, electronic items and more. Repairs are by donation, with all proceeds going to local community groups. Details at www.repaircafenorthsaanich.ca
How to Play: Unscramble each of the clue words. Take the letters that appear in boxes and unscramble them to solve the final message.
This jumble was created by The Blue Sheet Club, a group of brain injury survivors. The Cridge Centre for the Family's Brain Injury Services provides independent housing with support for survivors of brain injury. Through the development of support groups like The Blue Sheet Club, we strive to provide opportunities for personal development and reintegration in the community. Creating Word Jumbles are a great way to improve cognitive functioning. Plus they're fun too! Enjoy!
Special Event Games
FRIDAY JANUARY 3RD - GRANT GILBERTSON LEGACY GAME
FRIDAY JANUARY 3RD - GRANT GILBERTSON LEGACY GAME
Join us to remember our teammate & friend, Grant Gilbertson during this special legacy game. The Grant Gilbertson Memorial Foundation will be at the game with merchandise, door prizes, a charity 50/50, & a raffle for an autographed Logan Stankoven jersey.
The Grant Gilbertson Memorial Foundation will be at th game with merchandise, door prizes, a charity 50/50, raffle for an autographed Logan Stankoven jersey.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31ST - HOSPITAL & HEALTHCARE NIGHT SPONSORED BY THE SAANICH PENINSULA HOSPITAL & HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31ST - HOSPITAL & HEALTHCARE NIGHT SPONSORED BY THE SAANICH PENINSULA HOSPITAL & HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31ST - HOSPITAL & HEALTHCARE NIGHT
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31ST - HOSPITAL & HEALTHCARE NIGHT SPONSORED BY THE SAANICH PENINSULA HOSPITAL & HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION
Join us for a night of supporting our hospital & healthcare workers!
Join us for a night of supporting our hospital & healthcare workers!
The Alzheimer's Association recommends doing puzzles like Sudoku to strengthen brain cells and the connections between them. Each Sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically without guessing. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square. Answers found at right.
• What set s us apar t is our holis tic approach to digi t al solu tions
• We c an help g uide you through the digi t al landsc ape and tur n your v ision into reali t y
• Our ser v ice hub has got you covered
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Last Word from the Editorial Director
Deborah Rogers
What a wet and windy November we had! The abrupt shift into dark and wintery weather felt a bit unfair. It takes an attitude shift to embrace the season shift sometimes, but a bright and glittery holiday season can help too!
As always, we were planning our December issue back before the clocks changed and when the raincoats were still safely stowed away. When forward planning, we always start by looking back over past year's issues. We were so proud of our cover last December; I hope you agree that we've knocked it out of the park this year. The themes of the season are consistent year to year; we know you'll want seasonal recipes, decorating and gift-giving ideas, holiday events and tips and tricks to survive – and enjoy – it all. I've always believed the strength of the magazine, and what inspires the community's enduring support, is in the stories we bring you about our community's people. It doesn't matter what time of year it is, it's always the right time to meet a neighbour, learn a story and make a friend.
The end of 2024 brings to a close a really significant chapter of my life. This December issue will be my last as a part of the Seaside team. What a rich decade it has been! I've had the extraordinary good fortune to work with creative and passionate people on a publication that celebrates all that's good in our world. With Sue at the helm I've been encouraged to try new things, push myself and have been supported every step of the way. I feel so lucky to have been embraced by the Seaside team, and by the community. I know that 2025 will bring exciting things for the magazine and I'll be cheering the team on (and likely suffering some pangs from missing being part of it). I'll definitely be reading.
Happy Holidays to you all, and thank you for the years of feedback and support.
Photo by Janis Jean. Clothing provided and styled by Moden Boutique.
This holiday season, we are reminded of what truly matters, the love of family, the joy of shared moments, and the beauty of creating memories together. At Sidney All Care Residence, we’re honoured to be part of your life journey, offering care, compassion, and a place to call home.
May your holidays be filled with peace, happiness, and cherished memories. From our family to yours, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
To learn more about Sidney All Care, please contact our Community Relations Manager Terra Munro at tmunro@allcarecanada.ca or 778.351.2505.
