Home for the Holidays November 25, 2022

In contemporary British culture, there is no specific recipe for mulled wine and the spices involved in its recipe. It is commonly a combination of orange, lemon, cinnamon, nutmeg, fennel seed (or star anise), cloves, cardamom and ginger. The spices may be combined and boiled in a sugar syrup before red wine is added, heated, and served.

Variations include adding brandy or ginger wine. A tea bag of spices can be added to the wine, then heated with slices of orange as a convenient alternative to a full recipe.

Mulled wine is often served in small (200 ml) porcelain or glass mugs, sometimes with an orange slice garnish studded with cloves.

Mulled wine is very popular and traditional in the United Kingdom at Christmas, and less commonly throughout winter. Mulled cider (and sometimes mulled ale, traditional yet no longer common) is also served, with a mulled apple juice as a non-alcoholic alternative.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A trip through Christmas past

SEASONAL EVENTS: Plan some fun holiday activities for the whole family

CHRISTMAS LETTERS: Readers share their personal stories from the holidays

ISLAND GIVING: ‘Tis the season to think of others, and to give

PERFECT PRIME RIB: How to cook it, and add all the delicious extras

CHRISTMAS COOKIE CRUSH: Four tasty recipes from Eric Akis

FESTIVE PLANTS: Helen Chesnut’s tips on keeping them all year

OBEE | Editor

and

Publisher EDWARD KENNEDY | Director of Advertising DARRON KLOSTER | Editor GORDON FALLER | Designer

Home for the Holidays is published by the Times Colonist, a division of TC Publication Limited Partnership, at 201-655 Tyee Road, Victoria, British Columbia V9A 6X5.

Canadian Publications Registration No. 0530646. GST No. 84505 1507 RT0001.

Send comments to: Editor-in-Chief Dave Obee: dobee@timescolonist.com. To advertise in the next edition, phone: 250-995-4464, or email Advertising Director Gary Hollick at: gbaxter@timescolonist.com.

DAVE

Dave Obee Editor and Publisher Times Colonist

A trip though Christmases past, courtesy Charles Dickens

It’s Christmas, a time of tradition — and some wise words from the past.

On Christmas Eve 1897, a century and a quarter ago, the editorial in the Victoria Daily Times praised Charles Dickens, the author of the book we know as A Christmas Carol. (Its full title was A Christmas Carol. In Prose. Being a Ghost Story of Christmas.)

The Times, perhaps inspired by Dickens’ wordiness, had this to say:

“His work may be full of literary demerit; he may be overgiven to gush and sensation; he may have frequently mistake bathos for pathos, but in rescuing a great commercial matter-of-fact nation once a year from the iron grip of hard, practical facts and from its engrossing business cares, and making most people for reasons many of them would find difficult to explain, overflow with benevolence and good will, he deserves affectionate remembrance.”

Got that?

The ghost of Christmases past takes us to 1922, a century ago.

“There is no festival that has a more lasting effect than Christmas,” the Daily Colonist said in its Christmas Eve editorial. “It is the time when the old endeavor to become young again, when the middle-aged renew their childish enjoyments, when the children are the most important personages in a household.

“It is the season of home delights, when domestic felicity is at its highest. Much could be spared from the sum of human life but we could ill afford to do away with Christmas, for it is an annual tonic that would be sorely missed.

“In Christmas lies the hope and promise of a future, the assurance, in the peace that perpetuates a tremendous event, of the peace that is eternal. It is the time of high thoughts and noble resolves to all who call to mind the significance of the day.”

Forward again, to Christmas 1947, and a sombre message in the Times

“One of these days perhaps the people of this troubled planet may ask themselves a few plain questions. They may begin to wonder what they, as individuals, are doing toward bringing peace on earth and good will to all men.

“It may dawn upon them that little useful purpose is to be served by telling other people, governments, for instance, what they ought to do. At long last, they may suddenly understand that they, the questioners, are the government.

“And what, they may be asking, are we going to do about it? If they succeed in bringing themselves to this state of introspection, a new hope will emerge.”

The editorial closed with words of hope. “At long last, citizens of the world at large are beginning to realize their responsibilities. In this realization resides the hope that the traditional Yuletide message in years to come will have a substantial meaning.”

Finally, Christmas 1972, as seen by the Colonist, which listed nine bad-news stories from the previous week. “They alone give more than sufficient reason for a deeper despair than seems to prevail. With cynicism so encouraged, how can the spirit of Christmas ever be recaptured?”

The editors were just warming up, it seems. “Contrast the simple story of the Christ child with the cold calculations seen in the measuring of Christmas by the rise and fall of retail sales. Ebenezer Scrooge looks less and less like a hater of mankind and more and more like a prophet before his time.”

And then, a bit of hope:

“The old celebration still can be seen in the eyes of the young. Through them the world can be made a better place.

“It has to be.”

TIMES COLONIST CHRISTMAS FUND

A history of

This is the season of giving, the time for looking out for those less fortunate, the time for lifting the spirits of everyone in the community.

For almost seven decades, our readers have been able to do that, in part, through the Times Colonist Christmas Fund. Once again, we are asking for your support so we can help as many people as possible.

“Even in these prosperous times, Christmas is a dreary thing for a lot of people — a time when everybody else celebrates and they don’t.”

With those words, Daily Colonist publisher Seth Halton inaugurated the fund on Nov. 24, 1956. He called it the 500 Fund, because the goal was to help the 500 neediest families in Greater Victoria.

Halton said the fund would help people buy items such as “extra medicine, overshoes if it snows Christmas Eve, boxes of chocolates and other little personal items.”

The Colonist collected money for almost a month, bringing in a total of $7,265 — enough to prov ide cheques of $14.53 to each of the 500 neediest families.

The fund has evolved. Now, it’s the Christmas Fund, and it is run by a nonprofit society, with help from Times Colonist staff. We no longer give directly to individuals, but rather work with local groups who specialize in giving aid.

The total raised has changed as well, reaching a high of $1.24 million in 2020, the first pandemic year. In 2021 we raised $958,000 and are aiming for $1 million this year.

In the past year, we have given money to organizations such as the Salvation Army, as well as the Mustard Seed Street Church, Our Place and the Victoria Women’s Transition House. We have also given money to Nourish Cowichan and several food banks on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

The war in Ukraine caused needs not seen in previous years, so money also went to the local Ukrainian community as well as the Vancouver Island Counselling

Centre for Immigrants and Refugees.

Most of the money is used to provide food, although the Christmas Fund donations also help to bring comfort and security to those less fortunate as well as toys for children.

As a 1956 Colonist editorial said: “Perhaps only those who have experienced the dreary monotony of life with bare necessities supplied but never a spare dollar to spend, can really appreciate what an unexpected gift of this kind would mean.”

Some things, sadly, do not change. The economic turmoil caused by the pandemic is continuing. People who never dreamed they would need help are suffering, and with your help, the Christmas Fund is here for them.

This is all about the real meaning of the Christmas season: Give help to those in need. Your donation does not need to be

Go to the Times Colonist Christmas Fund fundraising page at canadahelps.org/en/dn/14772.

The site is open 24 hours a day and provides an immediate tax receipt.

Or mail a cheque to the Times Colonist Christmas Fund, 201-655 Tyee Road, Victoria, B.C. V9A 6X5. You can also use your credit card by phoning 250-995-4438 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday.

huge, because every little bit helps. You can make a difference.

Seth Halton, the person who created the fund, died at 65 in 1983, but he is still making a difference. This fund is one of his most lasting legacies – and we share his commitment to helping the community.

Thank you. Dave Obee

Seasonal EVENTS

AND ACTIVITIES

NOVEMBER 15

-DECEMBER 31

LIGHT UP THE CITY CHRISTMAS LIGHTING COMPETITION AND FOOD DRIVE

Vote for your favourite lights in five categories at downtown locations and more. Drop off locations for food donations at Greater Victoria and Island businesses including Dodds Furniture and Mattess, Thrifty Foods locations, Bay Centre and more. Sponsored by Thrifty Foods, details at gvfs.ca

NOVEMBER 17 -JANUARY 3

FESTIVAL OF TREES Bay Centre, downtown Victoria

Sponsored by Scotiabank, is a local community event during the holiday season where local businesses and organizations along with members of the Victoria community come together in support of B.C. Children’s Hospital Foundation. Holiday trees are spruced up and on display for the community

to vote on and enjoy for free.

NOVEMBER 19 AND 20

OWL DESIGNER FAIR

Fernwood Community Centre, 1240 Gladstone Ave.

Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. A handmade market with 40 local artisans, live music, free crafts and food trucks. Find out more at owlfair.com

be extending the parade route a few blocks for 2022 as recommended by our friends at Vancouver Island Health Authority. Masks are recommended, but not mandatory, and we ask that this year, you take the time to respect each other, be kind, be polite and enjoy the event together. Presented by CHEK, details at gvfs.ca

NOVEMBER

20 CHRISTMAS VINTAGE, RETRO AND COLLECTIBLE SHOW AND SALE

Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

This event is always a great mix of interesting people with vintage Christmas decorations, Mid Century modern furniture, jewelry and clothing, toys, household items and so much more. Admission: $5.

NOVEMBER 24

LADYSMITH LIGHTUP, FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS 2022

Ladysmith is ignited with thousands of twinkling Christmas lights. Drive or walk down First Avenue (you may be able to shop) and take it all in to fill yourself with Christmas spirit. Find out more at ladysmithfol.com

NOVEMBER 25 - 27 OUT OF HAND MODERN MARKET

Victoria Conference Centre, Crystal Garden, 713 Douglas St. Shop a gorgeous array of goods made by hand by more than 100 incredible makers, designers, and artisans from BC. Shop for the holidays or for yourself! Find out more at 10times.com

NOVEMBER 26-JANUARY 2 14TH ANNUAL GINGERBREAD

SHOWCASE

Parkside Hotel & Spa, 810 Humboldt St. Stop by this local holiday treasure to view these fantastic 100% edible creations made by our volunteer bakers. Don’t forget to donate to vote for your favourite! Find out more at habitatvictoria. com

NOVEMBER 26 AND 27

BALLET ETOILE CANADA PRESENTS THE STORYBOOK NUTCRACKER

Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney. Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m. A unique production bringing the classic Nutcracker story to life with engaging narration, vibrant costumes, and the intimate setting of the Charlie White Theatre. Tickets: $25, $20, $15 at marywinspear.ca

NOVEMBER 26 AND 27

CHRISTMAS IN THE MANGER ANNUAL CRAFT FAIR

1175 Beach Dr. Guests will enjoy dinner from FARO, followed by a favourite holiday film in our David Foster Foundation Theatre and freshly popped popcorn. Drink service will be available in theatre. Screenings of ELF, Love Actually, It’s A Wonderful Life, A White Christmas, Home Alone and The Holiday. For showtimes, details and tickets, go to oakbaybeachhotel.com

DECEMBER 1

- JANUARY 6 MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS AT BUTCHARTS

Butchart Gardens

3-9 p.m., with viewing until 10 p.m.

Christmas is a cheerful time of year at the Gardens. Bundle up and stroll through the Twelve Days of Christmas display, sing along to the sounds of the season with Traditional Carollers or listen to the Festive Brass, then stop in at the coffee shop to warm up with a hot chocolate and gingerbread by the fire. We will be closed Christmas Day to allow our staff to enjoy the day with their families and loved ones. More information and tickets butchartgardens.com

DECEMBER 2-4

THE ROYAL WINNIPEG BALLET PRESENTS

THE NUTCRACKER

Royal Theatre

Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 1 and 7 p.m. A snowy pond hockey game, a battle on Parliament Hill, Mounties, and a cast of Canadian critters make this production memorable. Performed to live music by the Victoria Symphony. Tickets at rmts.b.ca

NOVEMBER

26 40TH PENINSULA CO-OP SANTA CLAUS PARADE

The much-loved parade is the Miracle on Government Street and kicks off Christmas on the Westcoast. We will

Saanich Fairgrounds Main Hall and RCMP barn, 1528 Stelly’s Cross Rd. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Presented by the North and South Saanich Agricultural Soctiety, and featuring farm animals, Gingerbread Playhouse, food, refreshments and more. Admission: $2.

NOVEMBER 29 -DECEMBER 21

HOLIDAY MOVIE NIGHTS Oak Bay Beach Hotel,

DECEMBER 2-4

THE GIFT OF CHRISTMAS

Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney

Friday and Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. The Peninsula Singers and artistic director Lena

Palermo are proud to present to you our gift of music with our Christmas 2022 show, a celebration of all the things we have enjoyed throughout the years, with music from traditional Christmas ensembles, rock, jazz and R&B Christmas classics to today’s Christmas music hits. The show would not be complete without our show band, dancers and featured Young Artists, as well as costumes, sinalongs and lots of humour. Supporting the Saanich Peninsula’s HealthCare Foundation’s Music Therapy Program and the Saanich Peninsula Lions Food bank. Tickets: $35/$18 at marywinspear. ca

DECEMBER 3

THE ANNUAL IEOA TRUCK LIGHT CONVOY AND FOOD DRIVE

Watch the spectacle of 80 decorated trucks parade through the region. Starts at Ogden Point at 5:40 pm and goes 35Km through five municipalities, ending at Langford Parkway

DECEMBER 3

2022 ANNUAL LANGFORD LIGHTUP

Veterans Memorial Park at Aldwynd Road. 6-8 p.m.

The Annual Langford Light Up is returning for 2022! Find out more at langford.ca

DECEMBER 3 AND 4 NERDY DAYS OF CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR

Market Square, 560 Johnson Street, Lower Level

11 a.m.-4 p.m.

A quaint and nerdy craft fair featuring beautiful makers and artists all with a nerdy flair. Nerdy crafts, art, cards, gifts, totes, and so much more. Fun for the whole family and for a great cause. Admission by donation, all proceeds go to Victoria’s Hospital Foundation - Victoria General NICU.

DECEMBER 4

SIDNEY SPARKLES CHRISTMAS PARADE

Beacon Avenue in downtown Sidney 5 p.m.

Join Peninsula Celebrations Society for the Sidney Sparkles Christmas Parade. The parade route begins along Resthaven Drive and turns onto Beacon Avenue. For more details and route map, go to peninsulacelebrations.ca

DECEMBER 8

BUDDY’S HOLLY JOLLY CHRISTMAS

MacPherson Playhouse 7:30 p.m.

Award winning actor and star of the hit musical The Buddy Holly Story, Zachary Stevenson, will dazzle and delight you in his tribute to Buddy Holly with a festive flair. Hear all the big hits plus a sprinkle of your favorite seasonal tunes in this special Christmas concert presentation. Tickets at rmts.bc.ca

DECEMBER 9, 10, 11

LAST CHANCE CHRISTMAS CRAFT SHOW

Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Featuring an array of works of more than 80 artists, artisans, makers and designers from our beautiful west coast. More details at sidneybia.ca. Admission: $5

DECEMBER 10 AND 11

A BROOKE WHITE CHRISTMAS

Royal Theatre

Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2:30 p.m. Tracing her inspiration to vocalists such as Karen Carpenter, Joni Mitchell, and Kelly Clarkson, the talented singer/songwriter Brooke White applies her exquisite voice to a program of seasonal classics and holiday hits. Presented by the Victoria Symphony. Tickets at rmts. bc.ca

DECEMBER 11 PANCAKES & PAJAMAS

Hotel Grand Pacific, 463 Belleville St. Seatings at 9 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. A feast of fun for kids of all ages. Wear your pajames to brunch featuring an extravagant buffet, kid’s activities and oodles of cheer, in support the Children’s Health Foundation. Details at islandkidsfirst.com and tickets at eventbrite.ca

DECEMBER 14, 16, 17

A WONDERHEADS

CHRISTMAS CAROL

Wednesday, 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. at the Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney; Friday, 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. at MacPherson Playhouse

This astonishing production features larger than life characters, glowing ghosts and 10-foot-tall puppets in

store for audiences as they are whisked away with Ebenezer Scrooge on his magical Christmas Eve adventure. Tickets at marywinspear.ca and rmts.bc.ca. Further show dates on the Island, details at wonderheads. com

DECEMBER 15-31 LIGHTS OF WONDER Centennial Square, Business Association Downtown Victoria is again transforming Centennial Square into a holiday wonderland. Lights of Wonder is an outdoor event featuring themed light exhibits, interactive light tunnels, and a 40-foot festive tree. Free, family-friendly, and accessible, Lights of Wonder offers live entertainment, warm nibbles, and magical light displays. Find out more at downtownvictoria.ca

DECEMBER 16 AND 17

DANIEL LAPP’S 19TH ANNUAL HOME FOR CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Alix Goolden Performance Hall, 907 Pandora Ave. Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 2 p.m. Feel the Christmas spirit come alive as Daniel leads his legendary ensembles: the B.C. Fiddle Orchestra, Folkestra!, and the Joy of Life Choir, accompanied by the renowned Shiny H’ornaments, Swing’n Shepherds, and the Strings of Lights house band. Together they will perform a selection of inspiring festive favourites, including the beloved finale I’ll Be Home for Christmas Presented by the Victoria Conservatory of Music, details and tickets at showpass.com

DECEMBER 17

BIG HANK’S TRIBUTE TO THE BLUES SONGS OF CHRISTMAS

Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney 8:30 p.m. This unique 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.

Tickets at marywinspear.ca

DECEMBER 28-30

THE GIFT OF THE NUTCRACKER BALLET

Royal Theatre

Wednesday and Thursday,, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, 2 p.m.

Victoria’s own classic holiday ballet to Tchaikovsky’s timeless Nutcracker score played by the Victoria Symphony. Presented by Ballet Victoria, tickets at rmts. bc.ca

LETTERS

Readers share their favourite stories from seasons past and present

A soldier’s heart-felt words on hope during a time of war

Holly McKay of Sidney submitted this heart-warming poem written by her father during one of the darkest days of the Second World War.

Sgt. Wilfred Angus (Judge) McKay penned the verses in a wrecked home near Ortona, Italy in the winter of 1943. He was 29 at the time and serving with the 1st Battalion Saskatoon Light Infantry.

McKay later met the love of his life and war bride, Helena Maria Johanna McKay (nee de Vogel). Her friends and family called her Lenny. They were married on Nov. 30, 1945 in Lenny’s native Rotterdam.

Both returned to Canada, moving to Vancouver where Wilfred completed his education at UBC, went on to become a conservation officer in Golden and Grand Forks. They moved to Victoria in 1963, when Wilfred became a biologist with the B.C. Fish and Wildlife Department.

During the dreadful final months of the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands, Lenny survived being hit by a sack of flour during an Allied food drop. She and the British pilot who flew the plane later reconnected while he was working in Victoria as a school teacher.

“Isn’t it interesting how people are connected, even after all those years,” said daughter Holly.

Wilfred passed away on Nov. 9, 1981 in Victoria; Lenny died in Jan. 24, 2011 in Victoria.

CANDLES

I stood within the threshold of a home, The tide of battle had rolled o’er its head And left it, shell-torn, wretched and alone, Ransacked and looted – its protectors fled. Upon the mantelpiece of that sad room The timid, sole survivor of that scene There stood a candle, wistful in the gloom. How long, how lonely had its vigil been? The ashes in the hearth were cold and gray. I lit that candle, and I went upon my way…..

When I was very young, and very small, And it was time for me to go to bed And mother led the way up the dark hall, Holding a candle high above her head –That candle was to me a wondrous thing That chased away the horrors of the night; Witches and goblins fled on hasty wing Before the onslaught of its flickering light And while around my head it cast its spell, I slept in peace, and knew that all was well.

When I was six, and it was Christmas Eve And all the night was cloaked in mystery, The grandest sight to me was, I believe, The flickering candles on our Christmas tree. Beyond the window’s frost-encrusted pane The moon stared coldly on a world of snow. Within, our cozy walls flung back again The light of little candles, all aglow. They only burned a moment, it is true, But what a spell their little flames could brew!

WILFRED AND HELENA, 1945, NETHERLANDS

When I grew older, and more worldly-wise From contact with the busy world without, And childhood’s scales were shaken from my eyes And I was wont to view the world in doubt I would come home again, upon a night, And join them there around the fireplace, And mother would turn out the glaring light And light two candles. Could she read my face?

Two candles glowing on a mantelpiece, An open fire – and what a wealth of peace!

The candle, as an instrument of light, Has long been bettered in our modern world. Science provides us with a flame more bright Than ever from a candlewick has curled. Shall we then hold the candle obsolete, A thing of wax and wick discarded quite? Or is there yet a radiance, bittersweet,, Found only in the glow of candlelight?

Some hidden, subtle spirit seems to sway Within the aura of its feeble ray.

I like to think a candle is the soul That burns within the body of a room, Reflecting all the passions that may roll Across the surface of its flickering loom. Be it a room of friendship, love and cheer, What warmth within the mellow candle’s glow.

Let strife or sorrow charge the atmosphere

And mark how cold that little flame can grow. Will not a candle, burning on a bier Glow warmer in a room of Christmas cheer?

This Christmas, though we burn no candles here, Where fitfully the tides of battle flow, Let there be, in the homes we hold so dear The warmth of Christmas candles all aglow And as the flickering flames weave their fond spell Around the hearts of dear ones that we love, And light those faces that we know so well, Let us give thanks to God who reigns above That o’er each dear, unviolated hearth, There is still a little peace on earth.

Sgt. W.A. McKay S.L.I.

WILFRED M CKAY AND HIS BROTHER, TOM

Santa’s wonderful helper delivers the magic of Christmas

It was close to Christmas 1986 and my 5 ½-year-old son, Adam, and I were living in an old house on Fifth Street in Nanaimo that I had purchased seven years earlier.

Christmas was fast approaching and Adam said he had a few problems he needed to discuss with Santa prior to the big day. So we bundled up and off we went to Country Club Mall. I thought my son wanted to talk to Santa to ensure he would be receiving some of the presents he had printed for himself on his list.

We stood in line for quite some time and Adam talked to me about what his problems really were.

First he needed assurance that Santa got his name correct. I had burdened my son with three first names, his everyday name being the third one, Adam. This seemed to have confused the school system when he entered kindergarten and he wanted Santa

to know he would accept presents under any one of his three names.

Second, he needed assurance that Santa knew of our correct address and if Santa also needed to know our postal code.

Lastly, and of most concern to him, was that we did not have a fireplace.

Our sole source of heat was an airtight heater and Adam was concerned that Santa could not come down the stove pipe chimney and, if he did manage it, Santa and the presents might get stuck and burnt up.

We finally made it to the front of the line and Adam climbed into Santa’s lap.

Santa immediately said: “Well, if it isn’t little Adam from Fifth Street in Harewood! I know you have been a really good boy this year and doing your chores, like helping your mummy pack in the wood for your wood stove. It will be really cold and maybe snowy when the reindeer and I deliver your presents, so I will enjoy getting warm in front of your fire. Oh, and you don’t need to worry about me trying to fit my chubby body down your chimney or your presents getting burnt. My elves have been busy teaching me really cool magic tricks so I know how to get presents and me down that skinny stove pipe. Now, Adam, tell me what you might like for Christmas.” Adam’s eyes were the size of saucers, and so were mine.

My first thought was the mall, or at least the Santa line-up must be bugged. I could not figure out how Santa knew Adam’s name and all about what he had just told me.

Adam and Santa finished their conversation and after a big hug my very happy child climbed down off Santa’s lap. As we walked away I noticed on the sideline the elderly lady who had been in front of us in the lineup. I had noticed her earlier because she was alone, no grandchildren with her and she had gone up and sat on Santa’s knee and was whispering to him while getting her photo taken.

She beckoned us over and said: “You have a delightful little boy there and I wish you both a very Merry Christmas.”

Kerry Parker Nanaimo

12 Days of Christmas mystery brings comfort

In 1986, my mum passed away after a long illness.

She and I had always been close and I was devastated.

With the approach of the holidays, I was even more saddened as she had always made the holidays extra special with decorations, baking and gifts.

I was not looking forward to the holidays and basically could not get into any holiday spirit.

A couple of weeks before Christmas, I opened my apartment door to discover a box wrapped in holiday paper taped to the door along with a card. I had no idea who had left it.

I opened the card and did not recognize the name nor the handwriting.

The box contained a small bird in a nest with a plastic tree. I was very puzzled.

The card read ‘On the first day of Christmas.’

The next day I went down to the parking lot to my car and, taped to the windscreen,

Changing times

Iwas brought up by a single mother in the 1950s and things were scarce, but there always was a tree and some gifts for myself and my brother, followed by a delicious Christmas dinner. I remember mom would be up all night baking and cooking her traditional dishes. I especially remember as a kid, being in downtown Victoria when the large department stores, the Bay and Eaton’s, would have elaborate Christmas displays in their windows. I felt like Tiny Tim in A Christmas Carol, when he was gazing and dreaming over the clown and toys in the shop windows. For some reason this always made it feel like Christmas was here. It was a time for family and everyone to celebrate and enjoy the company of each other. I would be afraid to spend an evening downtown nowadays. Back then people didn’t seem to have the tension and show of aggression that is out there now. A much simpler time. God bless us everyone.

Bub S. Victoria

was another box.

This one contained two toy white doves and another card with different handwriting with the comment ‘On the second day of Christmas.’ This went on for the next 10 days.

Every day I would receive a gift that was related to the carol, The Twelve Days of Christmas, and a card in different handwriting.

My favourite was a bag of doughnuts for the five golden rings.

These gifts would show up at my work, my home, my car and I never saw who was

delivering them.

I was being driven wild with curiosity about who was sending these and questioned and accused friends and co-workers of being the mystery Santa. Everyone denied everything. Finally on Christmas Eve, I received a bouquet of flowers with a card.

My secret Santa was Thomas Ingraham, who was my co-worker. He got the idea from a person in his church and he and his family had decided to make my Christmas a little bit brighter by giving me something to think about other than my grief.

Although that was years ago and I haven’t seen or talked to Thomas in decades I have never forgotten and never will forget his kindness to me.

Although I still missed my mum, the warmth of this gesture did make this Christmas a very happy one for me.

Catherine Sarginson Victoria

Boyhood memories of artful Christmas trees, big sofa — and GIANT Turkey legs

It was a long time ago.

The living room was huge, and a grand piano in one corner did not dominate the room.

A very heavy art-deco camelback sofa upholstered in deep red velvet with its two matching chairs and ottomans against the walls and in the corners didn’t make the room look any smaller.

The grandeur of the plastered ceiling designs enthralled me.

I laid on that beautiful, thick, light green Chinese rug covering the fancy inlaid fir floor with its gold geometric trim too many times to count.

My grandfather had a habit, because he was an early Sooke forester, of cutting a fresh Douglas fir that reached the ceiling, and another one so that he could drill holes in the trunk of the main tree and add extra branches for a Christmas tree to die for.

It was a ritual that I doubt anyone can do today. Except me. I watched and learned, but I have no family to whom I could present such a magnificent (almost) natural sculpture.

The dining room, which was almost as huge as the living room, featured a table that sat 24, and ran from corner to corner on top of an intricately designed Persian rug.

A 1918 player piano was against one wall and opposite to that sat a curved buffet in which my grandmother kept her 12-setting fine china and matching food vessels. And real silverware.

Of course, she had extra dishes and when we all sat down to dinner, my grandparents, my mother and sisters and me, four pairs of aunts and uncles and their children (one uncle had a movie camera with a bar of Klieg lights) we dug into a

26- to 28-pound turkey with all the trimmings, and a huge ham, too.

From the time I was about six years old, I would take one of the turkey legs, put it on my plate, pick it up and start eating without any of the other goodies.

It was easily as big as my forearm. And everyone laughed.

But I just chewed like an animal on that turkey leg until it was down to the bone.

And then I would have some mashed potatoes and gravy, excuse myself from the table and go lay down on the living room sofa, which along with the heavy armchairs and ottomans is now mine.

I did not know at the time, nor for several years thereafter, that dark turkey meat has an enzyme in it that brings on sleepiness.

But I’d lay there on that sofa that now sits in my own living room and I’d look at that beautifully sculpted and decorated tree and fall into the most blissful sleep.

Oh, to be a boy again!

That home sat where today’s Laz-E-Boy store sits, and it was moved to Ralph Street across from Swan Lake, decades ago. Town and Country (not Uptown) was barely new in those early days, with its bowling alley across Saanich Road. No sidewalks. No traffic. A memory to die for.

T.L. Pedneault-Peasland Still in Saanich

A simple story of discovering Christmas

Five-year-old cousins, Sandra and Mike, loved to have sleepovers at my mother’s house and having an overnight visit shortly before Christmas was extra special!

The year was 1978. The cousins had a busy day of baking cookies with grandma and rearranging the ornaments on her Christmas tree.

When bedtime came and after being read a story, they snuggled down in their beds. There was a bit of quiet talking

and laughing, then silence. They were soon asleep.

But early in the morning, before dawn, mom woke up to hear them whispering in their room across the hallway. When she heard one of them ask excitedly “should we tell grandma?” she felt this should be investigated.

Quietly she got out of bed, looked into their bedroom and saw two little pyjama-clad bodies kneeling on one of the beds and peering out the window.

Their little blond heads were close together. They turned and looked at her with very big eyes full of wonder.

“Look grandma, we found the Bethlehem Star!” And they had. In the eastern sky was a brilliant silver star. The three of them watched as the sky became coloured with morning light, but the star did not dim.

For the rest of her days mom often said that the gift of seeing her two much-loved grandchildren discovering

SPECIAL DELIVERIES: Giving is what really counts

any, many Christmas’ ago when I was just a young girl growing up in West Vancouver, my nana and grandpa owned a small florist shop on Marine Drive. I just loved going in there and immersing myself in the waves of sensations

I remember the myriad colourful flowers and ribbons which my grandmother painstakingly curled with her scissors as she lovingly tied the flowers together in

I used to sneak into the back of their shop and relish digging my hands into the rich potting soil while inhaling the pungent smells which joyfully overwhelmed my senses. I will never forget the reams of green wax paper in large rolls which were copiously wrapped

Little did I know that my most treasured Christmas gift would manifest from that little

It did not come in a fancy box placed under our tree nor was it even on my

As fate had it, this special Christmas my grandpa wasn’t well and he couldn’t deliver the flower arrangements. Christmas was rapidly approaching. My dad immediately jumped in asked my older sister, Glennis, and I if we could be his little delivery “elves” to

I was just so excited to be included in our

As it turned out, I could do a comedy movie on what could go wrong delivering

flowers, but we did manage to get the job done despite getting lost umpteen million times in the lane ways of West Van. A few vases went flying in the back of the van on some of the tight turns and I even innocently added a few “new” words to my vocabulary as my dad’s patience started to wear thin.

Luckily for me, however, I got the best job of all. Each time we lurched to a full halt my dad would forage through the floral arrangements and, after making sure they were still in one piece, he would hand them to me to be delivered.

I was only about 7 or 8 and quite small for my age, so when I rang the doorbell the look of surprise on the faces of those who saw me was unforgettable. I would hold up the flowers all wrapped up in colourful ribbons and paper and, with a big smile, say “Merry Christmas!”

The thankful warmth and instant smiles of the people, both young and old, who greeted me time after time made me feel so happy and grateful inside. I realized how much more

joy I felt in the act of giving than anything I had ever done.

I learned a life-long lesson that Christmas: Sometimes our greatest gifts come in disguised packages.

It is only when we unwrap them and see them for their full context of our lives do we understand and appreciate the value of the gift we have been given.

Elaine Tanner North Saanich

the Bethlehem Star was, for her, the real meaning of Christmas.

My mom passed away long ago, but I often think of her favourite memory at this time of year. It reminds me of how special Christmas can be, especially when you find the Bethlehem Star!

Lynne Trace

A Starry COVID Christmas Eve

All six members of our family had registered to attend the 4:30 p.m. Christmas Eve service in a small historical brick church in Rupert, Quebec in 2021.

On Dec. 22 further COVID-19 restrictions were issued due to the rapidly spreading Omicon variant. In response, the minister, Natalie, quickly began pre-registration for the 7:30 p.m. (now moved to outdoors) service in Chelsea, a 30-minute drive south.

We were part of the lucky 40 who decided to brave a short service in the dark at -12 degrees C.

Bundling and masking up, we arrived to scan our QR codes, sign in and pick up a hymn book from a table blocking the well-lit front door of the church.

Rounding the corner, we were awed to see a dozen lit star-shaped ice candles glowing in the dark to mark cohort spots on the snow covered side lawn. Large twig stars in the five windows were silhouetted by the light inside. The night was quiet and still with light snow falling.

passages of the Christmas Story; after each of which, we sang the

Treasures of Christmases Past

Opening boxes of Christmas ornaments is like greeting old friends again.

They’re all special, inspiring and priceless.

Included in our treasure troves are two tattered cardboard circles, with glittery bits of Christmas cards glued to the greasy back of a pizza box. In my mind’s eye, I see our toddlers deep in concentration, their puckered little mouths moving

rhythmically to each opening and closing of the blunt scissors … a testament to earlier times when sparse finances and homemade adornments were inspired through necessity.

A Queen’s Guard Soldier lies cupped in the palm of my hand. Although his paint is faded, he stands ever at attention as a wooden clothes peg. Our daughter made him in kindergarten, and the threaded loop through his skewed black pom-pom hat disintegrated ages ago. He will be stationed on a tree branch, propped up beside the inevitable paper plate sprinkled with dried macaroni, and spray painted gold.

My mom’s embroidered blue bird roosts next to the dainty satin butterfly from my mother-in-law.

Meanwhile, the Three Wise Men bauble that our seven-year-old hand-sewed himself is whimsically suspended near a flock of his origami pterodactyls.

At the top of the tree, reposing beneath a chipped Christmas Star, is the large, red, paper-angel card my husband made for me the first year we dated. Although the angel wings have long since curled up at the edges,

What a memorable Christmas Eve!

the sparkly Merry Christmas card greeting remains divinely intact.

Of course, we own a few store bought decorations. One of which was a gift, a little Christmas Crèche. Although it wasn’t something we’d have bought for ourselves, this sweet little manger scene with animals quickly joined the cherished seasonal entourage.

In keeping with the situation, the Crèche is reverently displayed on top of our piano, despite the fact that one of the sheep’s plastic legs was completely gnawed off by our teething son (who, coincidentally, later became vegan).

Decades later, the precious little lamb continues to defy the law of physics and nobly stands guarding the manger crib, along with the pristine ox and donkey.

To me, he’s much more than a simple three-legged plastic lamb.

He’s an unsung model of hope and perseverance in adversity.

God bless us, everyone!

Barbara Bruce

Ruth and Alan Ford, Amy & Sean, Mikayla, Aidan

Throughout my childhood, my family’s unique tradition took place exactly two weeks before Christmas.

My parents and us four kids would pack up the Volkswagen van with pillows, sleeping bags, blankets and food, pile in and head to Salt Spring Island.

When my dad was in his early 20s, he built himself a log cabin on a quarter-acre corner of my great-grandfather’s 100acre lot. He chopped down and trimmed every single tree and built the one-room cabin, stuffing lichen in the cracks. The only washroom was an outhouse and we kids had to lug drinking water from my cousin’s place about half a mile away.

The windows were a little crooked, as was the floor, but I loved that little cabin because it was big with memories.

Each afternoon, we would go out back of the cabin and take turns chopping wood for the wood-burning stove. There were lots of near misses and it is amazing we survived with all of our appendages intact.

Once there was enough wood, Mom would cook dinner on the stove. We always told her that we had never smelled or tasted beans and wieners that delicious, and it was true. Then we would take our heaping plates and crowd around the small wooden kitchen table, sitting on whatever we could find — a piano stool, camping stool or a folding chair. We would regale each other with stories about our day or memories from the past, as we ate by the light of the oil lantern.

We always ended the meal with lots and lots of laughter and many happy tears. But, inevitably, dad would end up yelling at us to quiet down, stating that we had obviously had too much fresh air!

On our last morning, we would wander around my great uncle’s acreage looking for the perfect Christmas tree. We had hundreds to choose from, in all shapes and sizes.

We kids always chose ones that dad said were too bushy or too tall. That will never fit in the house, he would say. And every year we ended up with a tree of his choosing that was too skinny and too sparse — a Charlie Brown Christmas tree.

One year the tree had such a large hole

in it that dad ended up having to tie on another branch, which was so embarrassing when friends and family stopped by.

Two of us kids would take the old red bow-saw and tug it back and forth until the tree fell. Then the other two kids would drag it to my great aunt and uncle’s house. There, we would have a delicious pre-Christmas hot lunch of turkey, vegetables and Christmas cake. The vegetables were grown in my uncle’s market garden and Christmas cake handmade by my aunt.

Inevitably, the six of us would fall asleep by the roaring fire of the wood burning stove while my great aunt and uncle prepared the meal. My dad said it was because we weren’t used to such high levels of carbon monoxide!

After lunch, there would be hugs and goodbyes and we’d walk down the front path to our Volkswagen bus, with the tree patiently waiting on the ground.

Would dad tie the tree to the top of the van, like everyone else?

Oh no, the tree was revered, a special guest.

He would carefully place the tree inside the van and it would lazily spread its limbs all over the two rows of seats, hogging all the space.

The stump was in the trunk and tip tickled my parents’ noses. The only option left was for the four of us kids to crawl under the tree until we were able to carve out a space for ourselves on the floor for the drive and ferry home. No thought to seat belts in those days.

Dad would start up the car, click on the heat and off we would putter, at his usual 30 miles per hour.

Meanwhile, all of us kids were in the back, enclosed in personal caves of dewy branches, needles in our hair, sap on our clothes and the smell of fir everywhere.

Evelyn Tucker

Lindsay’s Gift

My beautiful daughter, Lindsay Buziak, a 24-year-old real estate agent, was lured to her death on Feb. 2, 2008, in Victoria. I have told this story to many people; it is a Christmas gift like no other that needs to be shared.

I have not yet and may never come to terms with Lindsay’s murder; I miss her more with each passing day.

Sara, Lindsay’s sister, and I are very grateful to our family, our friends, the police and to people we don’t even know for the comfort and support they have provided us over the course of the almost three years since Lindsay’s passing. On Dec. 25, 2008, Lindsay herself was able to comfort us at a very difficult time that had always been special for our family.

Immediately after Lindsay’s murder there were many unexplainable electrical occurrences in my home and after searching for an explanation I learned it was Lindsay’s way of making her spiritual presence known. These occurrences provided me with a level of reassurance that Lindsay was still with me, but skepticism kept me from truly believing.

Sgt. Tyra Reid, the police officer assigned to liaise with our family, invited me to lunch on Dec. 12, 2008. During lunch Tyra casually mentioned that she was glad I would be spending Christmas with my parents, siblings and their families in White Rock. I responded that I had no intention of celebrating Christmas with anyone and just wanted it to pass. Sara was living in Grand Cayman and had decided not to come home for Christmas since I had recently visited at the time of her and Lindsay’s birthdays. Sara’s plan was to be in Victoria on the anniversary of Lindsay’s passing. As always my time spent with Tyra was special and as we parted she said that she had something to deliver to me for Christmas. I remember thinking it was strange for her to say that to me, perhaps she would be delivering a Christmas card.

The time leading up to Christmas was painful, no baking was done, no decorating, no shopping, no listening to the Christmas songs that I loved, I just wanted Christmas to pass. I felt numb, empty and robbed of the joy that Christmas brought to me, Lindsay and Sara.

My sister, Rosemary, couldn’t bear to leave me on my own so a couple of days before Christmas she travelled to Victoria to spend time with me.

In the early afternoon on Christmas day I was looking out the front room window chatting to my brother on the telephone as a car stopped in front of my home. To my amazement Tyra stepped out. After a heavy snowfall many of the streets in Victoria were difficult to navigate, making it even more intriguing to have Tyra appear. I did recall Tyra saying that she had to deliver something to me for Christmas and I hadn’t heard from her since we had lunch. As I greeted Tyra at the door she held a gift bag and peaking out of the top I noticed a familiar recipe book, titled, Among Friends. I owned a copy and knew it well, since in the late 80’s we had purchased a box of the books from a friend who was selling them to raise funds for the Rotarians. I had gifted copies to my family and friends. I was perplexed to see a copy of the book in Tyra’s gift bag, but said

How a recipe book and a police liaison officer brought a message from beyond to a grieving mother at Christmas

LINDSAY BUZIAK IN 2007, AND IN KINDERGARTEN

nothing. Tyra said that she had something important to share with me. My heart skipped a beat with the hope that the police had at long last determined who had murdered Lindsay and why; the two questions constantly on my mind.

Following is Tyra’s account of why she came to my home on Christmas day.

During the first week of December, Lindsay came to me in a very vivid dream. Lindsay was radiant, smiling and undeniably alive. I couldn’t understand why she was in my dream, I was astounded.

Lindsay spoke first, “I need you to do something for me.” “Of course, anything,” I responded.” She spoke with purpose, saying, “Promise me that you’ll visit my Mom on Christmas day.” “I promise,” I replied, “but your Mom won’t be at home, she’ll be with family over on the mainland”. Lindsay said to me, “Oh no, she won’t go” waving her hands in protest. “Tell her she was the very best Mom in the whole wide world. Tell her that I am okay and that I love her. Tell her that I am with her in the wind, in the trees and in the sky.

Please tell her that I need her to be happy, that’s all.” She then asked me to deliver something from her to her Mom. I promised I would.

I woke up and immediately wrote down everything that was said during the dream; however, I had no idea of what it was that I was supposed to deliver. Had I forgotten or had she not told me, I had no idea. Although it was a dream, I was consumed with how real it felt and was determined to fulfill my promise to Lindsay.

During my attempts to carry out Lindsay’s request to deliver something to her Mom I began to panic not knowing what it was. I went from store to store, nothing felt right. It wasn’t glassware, china, perfume, candles, a book or clothing.

I met Evelyn for lunch on Dec. 12, 2008, and at that time she told me that she had no intention of being with her family at Christmas. I was dumbfounded; she confirmed what Lindsay had said.

On December 23, 2008, I stood at my living room window looking out into the front yard as huge snowflakes accumulated. I was in a whimsical, foggy state of mind, empty of thoughts, just enjoying

The Butchart Gardens 12-Month Pass

the beauty of the scene unfolding before me. The house was tranquil and for some unexplainable reason I felt compelled to walk into my dining room toward the china cabinet. I opened the door and mindlessly removed a recipe book from the centre of a pile of over forty books. I was not searching for a recipe as I had already done all of my Christmas baking. I reached in and pulled out an unfamiliar book titled, Among Friends.

I didn’t recognize the book and wondered where it had come from because most of my coil bound collection was from the The Best of Bridge series. I was puzzled as to why I held this book in my hands. I opened the front cover and there, covering the entire page in child’s printing, it read:

To: Mrs. Probst

From: Lindsay Buziak

Thanks for a wonderful year. June 1989.

In utter shock I put the book down and backed into the kitchen, bouncing from one foot to the other with my hands pressed to my face. I was then struck with the knowledge that this was what Lindsay wanted me to deliver. The only logical explanation of how I came to be in possession of the book was that during the time when my mother had attended garage sales, some ten years previous, she had purchased the book and given it to me. I immediately telephoned my mother, but she had no recollection of when or where she may have purchased it. That night I couldn’t sleep, I lay in bed trying to remember when I had received the book, absolutely bewildered by what it was that made me walk to the china cabinet, place my hands on that particular book and remove it from the pile. There was no explanation.

In spite of the fact that Evelyn had told me that she was staying at home, I felt certain that her family would have convinced her to spend Christmas with them. My resolve to follow through with Lindsay’s message was strong, even though the roads were barely drivable and my car was not equipped with snow tires. Undaunted, my father, who was visiting, drove me to Evelyn’s home as I held the gift bag containing the recipe book, a card on which I had written word for word what Lindsay had said to me, and some homemade goodies. To my surprise Evelyn was home, just as Lindsay had said.

Every aspect of what took place needed to be aligned; when Mrs. Probst sold the book, Tyra’s mother had to purchase it; Tyra’s mother had to give it to Tyra; Lindsay’s murder had to take place in Tyra’s policing jurisdiction; Tyra had to be assigned to Lindsay’s murder investigation; Tyra had to be the conduit to receive Lindsay’s message.

My sister, a friend and I all cried as Tyra delivered to me the most precious Christmas gift that Sara and I will ever receive. We were speechless and in awe of what Tyra relayed. After Tyra left I telephoned Sara to share Lindsay’s gift with her.

Mrs. Probst had been Lindsay’s fabulous kindergarten teacher; we do not know how the book gifted to Mrs. Probst at the end of the school year came to be in Tyra’s possession. I feel that Lindsay knew she needed to provide me with concrete proof so that I would believe the message Tyra conveyed. It is amazing, unexplainable and an absolute miracle. Every aspect of what took place needed to be aligned; when Mrs. Probst sold the book, Tyra’s mother had to purchase it; Tyra’s mother had to give it to Tyra; Lindsay’s murder had to take place in Tyra’s policing jurisdiction; Tyra had to be assigned to Lindsay’s murder investigation; Tyra had to be the conduit to receive Lindsay’s message. Lindsay knew that Tyra would follow through and not just shrug off what occurred as a mere coincidence.

I am eternally grateful to Tyra for following her heart and having the fortitude to deliver Lindsay’s message to me. I prayed for a message from

Lindsay and she answered my prayer.

I hope that everyone who reads this story is comforted with the knowledge that our loved ones are with us as we live out our lives. Please share this story with family and friends on your email list this Christmas. Also, I ask that you share this story so that my remaining prayer is answered; that someone who has knowledge of Lindsay’s senseless murder provide that information to the police in order that we can have closure.

The recipe book was dedicated “to all the children of the world.” How fitting it is for Among Friends to convey Lindsay’s message to me.

Christmas is still a very difficult time of year, but my heart is warmed by Lindsay’s message of love and her amazing Christmas gift, she will always be my precious little girl.

Evelyn Reitmayer Mother of Lindsay Buziak

GIVING TO THE WORLD IS GIVING TO FAMILY

work includes caring for land and shorelines, community education and engagement, landholder consultations and more.

It’s a scene west coast campers are familiar with, torrential rain and a leaking tent. Throw in camping on Mayne Island with your three-year-old and many people would pack up and head home. For Mayne Island resident Vicki Turay, it was motivation to return. “I had to find a roof over my head,” she said.

Turay and her husband, Harold Kasinsky, are now full-time residents on Mayne Island where they regularly enjoy the spectacular outdoors. It’s also why they are giving back, so generations can marvel at the same surroundings.

“Our generation has had a high quality of living and has been able to enjoy the environment,” says Turay. “Now it’s our time to pay it back.”

Turay and Kasinsky started the ‘Peaceful World Vision Fund’ through the Victoria Foundation. Through Kasinsky’s retirement fund, they support many organizations close to them. One of those is Mayne Island Conservancy, which also holds a fund with the Victoria Foundation. The Conservancy is dedicated to preserving the ecology of the island and its surrounding waters for future generations.

Founded in 2003, Mayne Island Conservancy is a grassroots environmental organization. Their

“The work staff have done has embedded the conservancy in the mindset of people on this island,” says Robin Walsh, a volunteer board member. Walsh recounts the tremendous support of the community and what they’ve accomplished, including planting over 10,000 native trees and shrubs for habitat restoration work and securing the protection of 68 acres at St. John Point.

“The needs for the work of the Conservancy are as strong as ever. As critical as ever,” says Walsh. “We can only imagine that 10, 20 years from now the work of the Conservancy will be just as vital…our work isn’t going away.”

When Turay reflects on the community of Mayne Island, she doesn’t mince words. “It’s one of the most giving communities out there.” She cites community members hosting art shows in a park, dinners, and raising over $2 million to purchase a parcel of land.

It’s one reason Turay and her husband decided to start their fund, so future generations can enjoy the picturesque trails and ocean views. For years, she has made it her mission to give back, whether that’s volunteering her time or supporting organizations financially. When they set up their fund, they also discussed it with their three children.

“The inheritance is for [our children] and the fourth is for the world,” says Turay. She emphasizes that she believes leaving a portion of their estate to charity isn’t taking from family, but it’s giving them a better world. “Giving to the world is giving to family,” she says.

Helen O’Brian, a board member with Mayne Island Conservancy, says it’s inspiring when a gift is left to their

organization. “To hear someone is leaving us a gift in their will, it’s a real vote of confidence.” Mayne Island Conservancy, along with the Victoria Foundation, is part of Will Power, a national initiative to inspire Canadians to leave a gift in their Will to charity while still supporting family. If enough Canadians donated a small percentage of their estate to charity, it could mean as much as $40 billion for causes supporting our communities. When a gift is left, it shows the community “believes in the work we’re doing,” says O’Brian. It’s a gesture that can have impact across generations.

Fast-forward to the present day, and Turay regularly hikes the trails on Mayne Island, many of which are preserved thanks to Mayne Island Conservancy. There’s one bench she regularly visits to pause and meditate as she breathes in the ocean air.

When asked what she would say to those considering leaving a gift in their will, Turay poses a simple question. “Ask them what they would like to see in the world in 30 years.” She’s seen what acts of generosity can accomplish on Mayne Island, so future generations can enjoy their own camping trips, leaky tents and all.

Learn more about leaving a legacy at VictoriaFoundation.bc.ca/legacygiving-and-wills or willpower.ca/ charities/the-victoria-foundation or contact the Victoria Foundation at donorservices@victoriafoundation. bc.ca or 250-381-5532.

Planting trees

Vicki Turay and Harold Kasinsky

WAR AMPS OF CANADA

ENDLESS OPPORTUNITIES FOR CHLOE, THANKS TO WAR AMPS!

What began as an Association to assist war amputee veterans returning from the First World War has expanded its programs over the years to support all amputees, including Chloe Dunbar, 12.

Chloe was born a right arm amputee and, as a member of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, is eligible for financial assistance for artificial limbs and adaptive devices, as well as peer support.

“I have been fitted with different artificial arms that allow me to be independent and participate in activities like cheerleading,” says Chloe. “Thank you to everyone who has donated to the Key Tag Service.”

The Key Tag Service was launched in 1946 so that returning war amputee veterans could not only work for competitive wages, but also provide a service to Canadians that would generate funds for the Association’s many programs. The service

continues to employ amputees and people with disabilities and has returned more than 1.5 million sets of lost keys to their owners.

Each key tag has a confidentially coded number. If you lose your keys, the finder can call the toll-free number on the back of the tag or place them in any mailbox in Canada, and The War Amps will return them to you by courier, free of charge.

The War Amps receives no government grants and its programs are possible through public support of the Key Tag and Address Label Service.

“We’d like to thank the public for helping to make this service a success,” says spokesperson Rob Larman, himself a Graduate of the CHAMP Program. “Your support funds essential programs for all amputees across Canada, including children and veterans.”

For more information, or to order key tags, visit waramps.ca or call toll-free 1 800 250-3030.

TURNING RARE CANCER DIAGNOSIS INTO A LEGACY

Inspired by the care he received at BC Cancer, Larry Samuels left a generous gift in his will to the BC Cancer Foundation.

When Larry Samuels was diagnosed with undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) cancer — a rare type for which there is currently no cure — he was determined to find some good that could come out of it.

He saw an opportunity and generously chose to leave a gift in his will to the BC Cancer Foundation to help fund critical research into UPS cancer at BC Cancer.

“When bad things happen, we mustn’t throw our hands down. Instead, we must ask what we can do,” Larry said, crediting his mom and dad for teaching him to find the “ray of sunshine” in even the darkest times.

His hope was that his gift would change the way UPS cancer is diagnosed and treated, so patients in the future have more options, and better outcomes.

In addition to leaving a gift in his will, Larry’s philanthropic legacy lives on in the UPS Cancer Fist Bump Fund, which he established in honour of his BC Cancer oncologist, Dr. Ronan McDermott.

“He would fist bump me at the end of all our time together. This small celebration meant everything to me,” Larry shared. “He showed me such grace, compassion and friendship — that’s why it’s called the Fist Bump Fund.”

When asked what he would say to someone considering leaving a gift in their will to the BC Cancer Foundation, Larry said to think about where those funds can have the most impact.

“My goal from the beginning was to save a life. If I can do that, every cent will be worth it.”

To learn more, contact Jordan McClymont at jordan.mcclymont@ bccancer.bc.ca or visit bccancerfoundation.com/ legacy

Young Larry Samuels with his mom.

SARAH’S PATHWAY TO HOPE

This weekly program became a consistent stop for Sarah and the children she was watching as part of her nannying business. When things started to get difficult for Sarah during the COVID-19 pandemic her sister reached out to a caseworker at Connection Point letting them know that Sarah could use some help during Christmastime.

Growing up Sarah had a great childhood. She had friends in the neighborhood and attended a small Christian school that her mom started. Her parents were both teachers, and they were able to spend weekends, summers, and holidays together. As she grew older and entered her twenties, she started to enjoy partying. Then at age 30, she unexpectedly found herself pregnant.

“The biggest thing I struggled with was stability,” shared Sarah. “I was a single mom ... no money ... no real place to stay.” She moved

from job to job and from house to house. “I think I moved eight times in three years,” Sarah shared as she described the lack of a foundation in her life. She struggled with money and felt like it was going to be like this for the rest of her life.

Sarah first heard about the Play Café at the Connection Point Church & Resource Centre in Victoria, B.C when her mother saw the new building open near her apartment. The Play Café provides a place for parents and their children up to the age of five to gather, play, and enjoy healthy snacks.

When Sarah learned about the Pathway of Hope program, her first reaction was “where has this been all my life.” “It’s almost like giving me a reset for my life,” explained Sarah. After being in childcare for 15 years, she knew she wanted a change. “There were so many things in my life I wanted to change, but I didn’t know how to do it myself,” said Sarah. The Pathway of Hope program allowed Sarah to work through her goals as she learned about budgeting, eating healthy, and finding time to take care of herself and her house. The counselors helped her develop a plan to return to school and do something different in her career. Sarah described the program as, “people holding my hand, walking through any change that I wanted to make in my life.”

Sarah explained the challenge of receiving support that first Christmas, “I’ve never been one to want to accept help ... but the relationships I made at Play Café made that easier.” The Salvation Army provided Sarah’s family with Christmas gifts and gift cards, as well as a place to connect with new friends. Since starting the

Pathway of Hope program, she has seen great results. She applied for school, her budget is on track where she has savings again, and she can focus on her mental and physical health. “It’s impacted every part of my life,” says Sarah. Captain Tinisha Reid explained the progress she saw in Sarah, “biggest change has been the confidence to move forward ... it’s been so beautiful to see her celebrate every goal.”

Without The Salvation Army, Sarah would have been stuck doing the same thing she did in the last five-to-eight years of her life. “When you are in the darkest and most anxious place, hope is light at the end of the tunnel ... clearing in the clouds where you know it is going to pass, and you can get through, and it will feel better. Everything felt so difficult to do by myself, now I have cheerleaders and partners here that are going to walk with me with whatever it is I need help.”

For the first time, Sarah is looking forward to the change that is coming, and she credits that to the supporters who have helped her out, the people she affectionately calls her cheerleaders who have helped guide her with each goal she has set in her life. “You’ve changed my life, truly,” says Sarah, “without this program I don’t know where I would be ... now I’m so excited for the future.”

To learn more about the work of The Salvation Army throughout the Capital Regional District, please visit victoriasalvationarmy.ca

HOW TO MAKE LIFE’S JOURNEY BETTER FOR LOCAL SENIORS WITH DEMENTIA

By Lori McLeod

Did you know Valerie Egan?

If you grew up in Victoria, you or someone you know almost certainly did. She was a teacher. A Vice Principal too. She worked at Vic High, Mount Doug, Oak Bay High, Reynolds, Cedar Hill, and Central during her long career.

She was the sort of teacher you would remember. One with a passion for athletics. She taught gym class, coached girls’ volleyball, and never met a sport she wouldn’t try. (Even windsurfing, tap dancing, and hot air ballooning, just to name a few.)

If you’re a coffee drinker, you may have met her that way too. In retirement, she worked as a barista at the Cadboro Bay Starbucks. When she wasn’t travelling in Mexico, or teaching English as a second language, that is. But whether you knew her or not, it’s the rest of Valerie’s story that you should know…the parts that aren’t so easy to talk about.

Valerie was one of the growing number of Canadian seniors diagnosed with dementia. Hers was a rare form called Progressive Non-Fluent Aphasia (PFNA). Over the last few years of her life, it robbed her of her ability to speak, read, and write.

If you’re like me, dementia (in any of its forms) is one of your biggest aging-related fears. Imagine losing your memories and the ability to communicate with family and friends. Or worse, watching someone you love slowly decline with the disease.

This was the reality Valerie’s family found themselves in. When Valerie was suffering, even with something as simple as a headache, she had no way to ask her family for help.

Of course you already know how the story ends. There is no cure for dementia. But life is about the journey. You and I can make the journey better for thousands of local seniors in need, and for their families too.

“It is challenging to find things that distract, amuse or entertain Valerie especially when she remains quite physically fit and unable to cogently communicate her needs.”

This is what her family wrote to me a few months after Valerie’s admission into long-term care. She had a beautiful room at the Summit on Hillside at Quadra. She had excellent nurses delivering great care. But she needed something more. She needed quality of life.

As a natural-born athlete, Valerie would exercise every day. It grounded her, and gave her peace of mind, which became even more important after her diagnosis…

“[It] releases the frustration that accumulates when she cannot communicate for social stimulus or even for basic needs…and lessens the possible need for medication to control it.”

She loved music too. Long after she’d lost the ability to speak, she connected with familiar tunes.

“We have been delighted to see her seemingly mouth the words to songs

when there is musical entertainment as she has played or enjoyed live performances and music all her life.”

And art. Her room sparkled with bright watercolours created before and during her Summit stay.

“We suspect that the artwork, music and physical exercise resonates at some deep level in her brain that has not yet been impacted by her disease.”

Yet basic long-term care fees cover none of these. Not exercise equipment. Not music therapy and entertainment. Nor art classes and relevant supplies.

It’s local charities that ensure quality of life programming in long-term care homes. Foundations like Eldercare raise money to provide special equipment and therapy support to seniors in need. And this is how you and I can help.

The sad truth is there are hundreds of local seniors like Valerie. Whether you knew her or not, you will know others with dementia (and all the horrors the disease brings). But something as simple as a small donation to a local charity, like Eldercare, can make their journey better.

Lori McLeod is Executive Director of Eldercare Foundation, a Greater Victoria-based charity that supports residents living at Aberdeen, Glengarry, Priory, and Summit longterm care homes. Eldercare also raises funds for community programs like the Summit and West Shore Adult Day programs, and the Piercy Respite Hotel. www.gvef.org

Valerie Egan

For 40 years , Barbara worked as a nurse caring for others . But after she retired, dementia robbed her of her ability to care for herself. Now in long term care, she struggles with anxiety and feelings of depression. Your donation to Eldercare will help seniors like Barbara by providing new technology for dementia care, and therapy support for anxiety and depression.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

As Christmas lights begin to twinkle this holiday season, it is inviting to think of warm spiced drinks, a cozy fire and savoury meals with family and friends. Many of us take this for granted. For an increasing number of those living in our region impacted by the skyrocketing costs of housing and food, this is a dream.

In fact, a 2021 Food Banks Canada report identified visits to food banks were up 20 per cent and one in three people in need are kids. With recent inflation, there is even more pressure on families and individuals.

With generous support from donors, the Mustard Seed is here to help support the 45,000 food insecure people in our region. As we head into December, our focus is on providing food for families through our Christmas Hamper

program. Each hamper offers food and a toy or gift card for kids. I’m sure you can imagine the happiness of each family as they pick up their hamper and gifts in “Santa’s Workshop,” where parents can select just the right toys for their children. And just $170 pays for a hamper for a single mom and her two kids.

We all know that hunger impacts every part of a child’s life. Low energy hurts their ability to concentrate and learn. Their health suffers. And their mental health suffers too—especially as they can feel left out, embarrassed, and worried about the future. And imagine the stress on a parent knowing they can’t feed their kids. It’s heartbreaking.

Scripture tells us to see the hungry and feed them. And your gifts to Mustard Seed do exactly that. Every gift means

we can help more people who will turn to us this winter.

You know, life can change in a moment. A health crisis, rising interest rates, increasing food costs— they can all put more people into a desperate situation, where you must decide between buying groceries and paying rent. But the Mustard Seed is blessed with a family of dedicated supporters like you. Caring people who understand that one of the most incredible things we can do is to be there for each other when times are tough.

Please, consider pitching in before this year draws to a close. The families and individuals we’ll feed through the winter appreciate your big heart.

To volunteer or to give, please visit our website at mustardseed.ca

GENERATIONS OF GOOD

When you leave a legacy gift to the Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation, you ensure that the next generation benefits from the same high standard of care our hospital provides today.

For the Nagy family—who live and run their successful business, Graphic Office Interiors, on the Saanich Peninsula—SPHHF plays a big role in their philanthropic planning. They believe that “three basic cornerstones are required to build a robust society: housing, food and healthcare.” That belief led them to support the SPHHF.

“We are elated with how successful the Foundation has been in setting and achieving goals that support our local community,” says company president Steve Nagy. “We are so proud that our donations go to so many great endeavours, from new diagnostic equipment to primary care delivery— all of which support our desire to be good neighbours.”

A Legacy of Caring

As the Nagy family’s story attests, there has always been a lot of love for our community hospital. The Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation came into being because the community recognised how valuable it is to have a local hospital, and were prepared to fight for it.

Over the years the small hospital has been transformed into a beacon of healthcare with a wide range of services and specialist equipment, as well as highly skilled and committed staff. It is thanks to the passion and forethought of donors in our community that residents of the Saanich Peninsula and southern Gulf Islands have access to this special hospital.

Like the Nagy family, your legacy can also be one of caring. With planning today you can support healthcare for

generations to come. At any stage of life, preparing a will is an opportunity to look back over what you have accomplished and plan ahead to support causes you believe in and organisations you care about.

One of the most significant decisions you can make is how to structure your estate to make best use of your assets. This enables you not only to provide for your descendants, but also to make a positive and lasting difference to the world they’ll inherit.

There are a variety of easy ways to leave a legacy gift. Talk with your legal or financial advisor to answer your questions as you explore the opportunities. To help you get started, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions below.

Why do people choose to leave legacy gifts to the Foundation?

As with most donations, legacy gifts come from patients or family members who have had a meaningful experience while in the hospital. People feel a strong desire to ensure staff can continue to provide the same outstanding level of care to other patients right here in the community, and into the future.

How is a legacy gift different from making a simple donation?

A legacy gift can enable you to provide a much larger donation than you could during your lifetime, and often garners significant tax savings for your estate. RRSPs, RRIFs and TFSAs allow you to name the SPHHF as the beneficiary of all or part of your investments. As with life insurance bequests, these gifts do not form a part of your estate, so administrative fees and probate don’t apply.

Why are legacy gifts important? How do they differ from annual campaigns?

Both types of giving are important. Annual campaigns are designed to meet

immediate, specific goals. Legacy gifts are often invested, which provides longterm financial stability and enables us to weather economic downturns when charitable donations can drop.

Is it possible to make a gift without affecting our children’s inheritance?

Absolutely. To encourage more philanthropic giving, the federal government has changed the tax treatment of charitable gifts. In many cases, legacy gifts can be structured to create tax savings or even to take advantage of generous tax credits. This means you can make a legacy gift to the Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation while preserving the amount you wish to leave to your children and grandchildren.

When considering your planned giving, consult your legal or financial advisor before making a legacy gift.

For more information on planned giving go to sphf.ca.

Top (L to R): Katie Guyon, Steve Nagy and Chris Nagy. Below (L to R): Margery Littley and Nancy Nagy.

Your support will ensure that the Saanich Peninsula Hospital remains at the heart of community healthcare for generations to come.

You want to have an impact on the world that your children and grandchildren will inherit. Your legacy can provide for them and your community. Visit our website or speak with your financial advisor to find out how to make a gift that will leave a positive and lasting difference.

your community, your health 250-656-2948 sphf.ca

UNITED WAY OF GREATER VICTORIA

MORE THAN MEALS FOR ISOLATED SENIORS:

donate today and your gift will be matched

Greater Victoria has one of the country’s highest proportions of seniors over the age of 65. Many local seniors experience extreme loneliness, malnutrition, mobility issues, and limited income. The last few years have amplified these challenges: social interactions with friends and family, grocery shopping, in-person doctor’s appointments, and outdoor activities have become limited. The result is increased isolation, depression and anxiety, as well as food insecurity. Together with donors like you and with support from local businesses, United Way Southern Vancouver Island (UWSVI) has been able to help isolated seniors through the More than Meals program. Since its launch in May 2020, More Than Meals has grown from delivering 200 meals a week to 50,000 meals a year for seniors in the region. It provides not only nutritious meals to people in their own homes but also social connection. But the needs of seniors in the community remain high.

“My husband of 60 years passed away. I am on my own, and I know I am going to get a decent meal and don’t have to hit the peanut butter jar again,” says Anne, one of the seniors involved In the More Than Meals program.

The success of the program depends on donations but also on the volunteers delivering the meals and critical social visits to vulnerable seniors.

Lorena Milkert, Director of Retail Banking with Island Savings, is a supporter and a volunteer for the program. Every Wednesday, on her lunch break, she delivers meals to seniors. “I enjoy it and can’t imagine not doing it now. I know those seniors would miss the meal and probably not be healthy. My volunteer involvement is rewarding beyond belief. You know you are giving back and helping someone who needs it, says Lorena, who encourages others to support the program financially.

“I always think. What if my mom were alone? What if I were alone? Anyone

can be in that situation. Some of the seniors that the More Than Meals program supports wait for you when it’s meal delivery time. They rush out to say hi and have a conversation with you, and that’s probably the only human contact they have all week,” Lorena adds.

More than Meals is just one example of a community-based program funded by United Way Southern Vancouver Island that provides support for seniors, helping them maintain independence and connection.

Make a gift today and support our seniors at https:// uwsvi.ca/isolated-seniors/ donate/

Thanks to a corporate gift

from Island Savings, your donation to More Than Meals program will be matched dollar for dollar.

Your gift will:

• $100/month or $1,200: Provide an isolated senior with 2 nutritious meals a week, reassurance calls, and friendly visits for one full year.

• $50/month or $600: provide an isolated senior with 2 meals a week, phone calls, and friendly visits for 6 months.

• $20/month or $250: provide an isolated senior with 2 meals a week, phone calls, and friendly visits for 3 months.

NEIGHBOUR HELP A

Your gift will transfor m a life right here, right now. Your community needs your support. From youth struggling with mental health to isolated seniors who can’t afford a nutritious meal, you can help your neighbours when they need it most.

DONATE TO UNITED WAY

uwsvi.ca

Souther n Vancouver Island

JOHN’S STORY:

On a Thanksgiving Sunday in 2016, John and Marg never anticipated urgently rushing to the Emergency Department instead of enjoying a holiday meal with friends.

As the retired couple went about their morning routine, John decided to clean the windows on the roof of their home in Oak Bay. Before he realized something was wrong, John was falling off the roof and into their yard below onto large rocks placed to deter deer from the garden.

“I have no idea how I fell, but I first recognized something was wrong when I saw myself through the reflection of the TV room window,” recalls John.

John and Marg, who recently celebrated their 37th wedding anniversary, worked and lived in several cities across Canada before finally settling in Victoria. They have enjoyed a successful and unique life filled with different business development and financial research opportunities.

Soon after his fall, Marg found John in the garden and immediately called 911. Having struck his head open on the rocks below, John would not have survived without the immediate help of the Oak Bay Fire Department, who resuscitated him with three to four minutes to live.

After rushing to Victoria General

Hospital, Vancouver Island’s trauma referral centre, John underwent seven hours of surgery on his head and legs. Finally, he stabilized in the intensive care unit. In one leg alone, he had 52 sutures. Following more surgeries and several weeks spent in the neurological ward, the couple soon realized that, at the age of 75, John would have to rebuild how he lives and functions.

After months of recovery and relearning how to walk, John started to gain his life back. “John had a great attitude to get better – whenever he’s told he can’t do this or that, he’s set on proving you wrong,” says Marg.

During John and Marg’s working lives and in retirement, they spent much attention, discipline, and effort on financial conservation and growth. They made diligent plans to provide for their children, as well as their extended family.

As they sat down to prepare their estate plans, their desire to care not only for their family, but also for local emergency and trauma services, became increasingly clear. They were driven by one thought: “Our hospitals need to be here.” Because truthfully if they weren’t, John wouldn’t be with us today.

“This experience made us realize that hospitals have to survive, expand, and do what they do best. It’s nice that you

can support them through your will,” says John.

Not only have the couple personally thanked the caregivers who have helped John, but they have also made the generous decision to make a gift in their will to the Victoria Hospitals Foundation. Our local hospitals rely on the generosity of thoughtful donors who provide our dedicated care teams with the vital equipment they need to save lives, every day.

“I would adamantly suggest that anyone do what we did to support our hospitals. When you decide to take action now, it allows people like me the chance to survive,” stated John.

Just like John and Marg, you can support our local hospitals with a gift in your will. Your decision to include the Victoria Hospitals Foundation as a beneficiary makes a lasting impact on the care provided on Vancouver Island.

No great wealth is required to give, just the willingness to plan. Your decision ensures that you, your loved ones, and your community will benefit from lifesaving hospital care, for generations to come.

Learn more today: victoriahf.ca/ will-and-estates or 250-519-1750

“We all need to support our hospitals. When you decide to take action now, it allows people like me the chance to survive”

Supp or t Our Lo cal Ho spitals

“We all need to suppor t our hospitals,” says John Bowron. “When you decide to take action now, it allows people like me the chance to sur vive.”

After falling off the roof of his home in Oak Bay while cleaning his windows, his wife Marg found him and immediately called 911.

Seven hours of surger y and more than 52 sutures later at Victoria General Hospital, John began the long road to recover y.

Inspired by the great care he received, John and Marg decided to include the Victoria Hospitals Foundation in their will—a way for them to thank the caregivers that saved John’s life and to help care teams access the tools they need to save others.

“This experience made us realize that hospitals have to sur vive, expand, and do what they do best. It’s nice that you can suppor t them through your will.”

Just like John and Marg, you can make an incredible difference for local hospitals and Vancouver Island patients by including the Victoria Hospitals Foundation in your will.

Many donors believe that they can’t suppor t both their loved ones and their favourite cause in their will. The truth is, just a small percentage of your estate left to charity can have a big impact, while still leaving the majority for loved ones. Choosing to suppor t your charity can also reduce and, in some cases, even eliminate the taxes to be paid.

You don’t need to be wealthy to make a gift to charity in your will. Regardless of the size of your estate, you can be a par t of this powerful movement for change. Learn more about the legacy you can create at Royal Jubilee, Victoria General, and Gorge Road hospitals by calling us today at 250-519-1750 or emailing us at vhf@islandhealth.ca.

In the pur suit of advancing healthcare on Vancouver Island, the Victoria Hospitals Foundat ion has p ar t nere d w ith Will Power, a nat ional movement to e ducate Canadians ab out the p ower they have to make a difference through their w ills.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF VICTORIA CAPITAL REGION

WITH YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES ON THE RISE, MENTORING MATTERS MORE THAN EVER

children facing adversity - those in need of additional supportive and consistent relationships, who are open to mentoring and can be safely matched - will benefit from a developmental relationship that helps them grow up to be healthy, caring and responsible adults.

their mentor sharing power with them. What’s more, 86 per cent of families saw their child become more motivated to learn and try new things and 72 per cent of mentors felt that their mentee was inspired to see future possibilities for themselves.

Mentoring matters for mental health, now, more than ever

Since 1977, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Victoria Capital Region (BBBSV) has been serving our community and standing up for our society’s youngest citizens We enable life changing mentoring relationships to support the power and potential of young people We match children and youth who are struggling with challenges or facing adversities in their lives with trained adult mentors who provide a listening ear, a helpful hand and a caring heart. Mentored young people have the support, tools and confidence for long term stability and success as members of our community Through no fault of their own, many children and youth are dealing with challenges that threaten their confidence and limit their opportunities Adversities like family, health, social and emotional struggles have a big impact on the wellbeing of a developing young person. According to our 2021 2022 program reports, 91 per cent of young people who accessed our B You: Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds group mentoring program were coping with at least one adversity Many young people, especially those who identify as Indigenous, LGBTQIA2S+ or new immigrants, experience complex and

Since 1977, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Victoria Capital Region (BBBSV) has been serving our community and standing up for our society’s youngest citizens. We enable life-changing developmental mentoring relationships to support the power and potential of young people. We match children and youth who are struggling with challenges or facing adversities in their lives with trained adult mentors who provide a listening ear, a helpful hand and a caring heart. Mentored young people have the support, tools and confidence for longterm stability and success as members of our community.

Through no fault of their own, many children and youth are dealing with challenges that threaten their confidence and limit their opportunities. Adversities like family, health, social and emotional struggles have a big impact on the wellbeing of a developing young person. According to our 2021-2022 program reports, 91 per cent of young people who accessed our B You: Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds group mentoring program were coping with at least one adversity. Many young people, especially those who identify as Indigenous, LGBTQIA2S+ or new immigrants, experience complex and intersectional challenges - 75 per cent of program participants were facing two or more different adversities in their lives.

intersectional challenges 75 per cent of participants were facing two or more different adversities in their lives. Over the past year, even more children are struggling emotionally than ever before: 72 per cent of one on one mentoring recipients came to us experiencing mental health challenges in 2021 2022

Within these relationships, mentors express care by showing the child that they matter; challenge growth by encouraging the child to keep getting better; provide support by helping the child to complete tasks and achieve goals; share power by treating the child with respect and giving them a say; and expand possibilities by connecting the child with ideas that broaden their world.

"Big Brothers Big Sisters gave me a cool best friend and helped me trust again! I like that he lets me pick where we get to go and he's thoughtful, kind and cares about my opinion (I've learned) that it's always good to have a good buddy close by " Hunter*, Little Brother to Alex*

We have learned that children facing adversity those in need of additional supportive and consistent relationships, who are open to mentoring and can be safely matched will benefit from a developmental relationship that helps them grow up to be healthy, caring and responsible adults

Within these relationships, mentors express care by showing the child that they matter; challenge growth by encouraging the child to keep getting better; provide support by helping the child to complete tasks and achieve goals; share power by treating the child with respect and giving them a say; and

Over the past year, even more children are struggling emotionally than ever before: 72 per cent of one-onone mentoring recipients came to us experiencing mental health challenges in 2021-2022. We have learned that

According to the Search Institute Developmental Relationship Framework, an ongoing national study on the impact of mentoring, developmental mentoring relationships are proven to reduce the impacts of adversities and buffer the effects of toxic stress on a young person’s wellbeing, health and happiness. When we match a child with a trusted adult mentor, we start something incredible – a life-changing relationship with the young person’s needs placed at the center. Mentoring is an important way to give youth experience with essential developmental relationships, helping them to develop into healthy young people who are better able to overcome life’s adversities.

expand possibilities by connecting the child with ideas that broaden their world. According to the Search Institute Developmental Relationship Framework, an ongoing national study on the impact of mentoring, developmental relationships are proven to reduce the impacts of adversities on a young person ’ s wellbeing, health and happiness When we match a child with a trusted adult mentor, we start something incredible a life changing relationship with the young person ’ s needs placed at the center Mentoring is an important way to give youth experience with essential developmental relationships, helping them to develop into healthy young people who are better able to overcome life’s adversities Mentoring allows young people to realize their full potential our 2021 2022 program surveys show that 94 per cent of youth mentees experienced their mentor sharing power with them What’s more, 86 per cent of families saw their child become more motivated to learn and try new things and 72 per cent of mentors felt that their mentee was inspired to see future possibilities for themselves Now, more than ever, families are reaching out for the support of

Mentoring allows young people to realize their full potential – our 20212022 program surveys show that 94 per cent of youth mentees experienced

Now, more than ever, families are reaching out for the support of our volunteer mentors. We currently have over 142 children on our waitlist in need of a supportive mentoring relationship – some young people have been waiting for over a year to be matched with their mentor.

We need the community’s support in order to grow our programs, train more volunteer mentors and ensure our services are available to every child in our community who needs our support.

Investing in our children’s futures benefits our entire society. We provide an $18:1 social return on investment – every $1 donated is returned as $18 or more to society. According to the Social Return on Investment Study, 98 per cent of people who received mentoring in youth felt that they make good life choices as adults, and 96 per cent reported feeling happy in their lives. Mentored youth also give back more to the community – they are 50% more likely to volunteer as adults and donate 20% more money to charities and causes.

our volunteer mentors. We currently have over 142 children on our waitlist in need of a supportive mentoring relationship some young people have been waiting for over a year to be matched with their mentor We need the community’s support in order to grow our programs, train more volunteer mentors and ensure our services are available to every child in our community who needs our support Investing in our children’s futures benefits our entire society We provide an $18:1 social return on investment every $1 donated is returned as $18 or more to society According to the Social Return on Investment Study, 98 per cent of people who received mentoring in youth felt that they make good life choices as adults, and 96 per cent reported feeling happy in their lives When you give to BBBSV, you are directly contributing to the health, wellbeing and happiness of our community Your gift will help us to provide local young people the support to navigate the challenges they face and the power to realize their full potential

When you give to BBBSV, you are directly contributing to the health, wellbeing and happiness of our community. Your gift will help us to provide local young people the support to navigate the challenges they face and the power to realize their full potential.

Donate today and become a part of something life-changing.

Donate today and be a part of something life changing!

CREATE A BETTER TOMORROW BY SUPPORTING A LOCAL CHILD

Mission: We are a trusted, committed group of volunteers and donors who help, support, and create positive change for local children and their families in need, year-round.

Values: Our core values are serving local children in need through the joy of giving back as donors and volunteers in a respectful, transparent, and compassionate way.

How can you help?

• Visit the Virtual Tree of Wishes at cfaxsantas.com and donate a gift for a local child, or food hamper for the family! Santas elves will do the shopping!

CFAX Santas will email a tax receipt directly to you.

Tradition is a great part of the Greater Victoria community. CFAX Santas Anonymous Society is a Christmas tradition local families have needed, financially supported or volunteered for, through 45 years. Christmas is a time of year that brings great joy, especially for children and at CFAX Santas Anonymous we know the gift of giving has touched generations of people living in this community. Some were once in need and now give back financially or by volunteering. Some reflect on the joy their gift delivered to the door meant throughout their lives. What ever the circumstances of a Santas Anonymous connection it creates a treasured memory.

Celebrating 45 years!

It all started 50 years ago when Marilyn Cann, local business woman, with husband Vern and their two children opened their home and started Santas Anonymous to help local children in need. Five years later Marilyn realized that her home couldn’t accommodate the need

on a long term basis so she approached Mel Cooper, former owner of CFAX 1070. Mel took the reins, registered the charity and CFAX Santas Anonymous Society was born. 45 years later, CFAX Santas Anonymous is governed by a strong 14 member Board of Directors, and Mel Cooper remains an Honorary Board Chair.

A new season – more need than ever before! 1200 families are registered for the 2022 Christmas Hamper Program – 2,420 children.

Every registered family receives gifts for the children, food for the family and a grocery gift card.

• Each child receives 3 presents: One wish gift valued at $40; a $40 gift card for clothing, one gift worth $25 based on the child’s interests)

• Santas Anonymous will package over 8,000 presents

• Each family receives a 3-bag food hamper designed to help with meals while the children are out of school for Christmas break – and a grocery gift card of $100.00.

Volunteers: 98% volunteer driven, the Society is supported by 400 volunteers offering their skills and time. This gift is priceless, keeping administration costs low. This commitment is captured in the Vision, Mission and Values statements created by the Society’s 14 member Board of Directors:

Vision: Create a better tomorrow by supporting local children in need today.

• Plan an event or fundraise in your business, office, organization or club.

• Tune into Miracle on Broad Street, CFAX 1070 radio’s 13 hour radio-thon supporting CFAX Santas Anonymous. December 9th from 5:00 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Let’s Connect!

All information is on our website at cfaxsantas.com

Connect by phone 778-561-1070

Or by mail 1420 Broad Street, Victoria, BC V8W 2B1

Marilyn Cann, and Mel Cooper, kicking off Miracle on Broad Street 2018

aBy: Supported Proudly

DEVELOPING PHYSICAL LITERACY THROUGH QUALITY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Every year, we welcome hundreds of children to our programs. For the past eight years Oliver has been participating in our programs and camps. We would not be able to provide these services without the help of donors and community partners like you.

“Oliver has been a participant at PISE activities since he was two years old,” commented Oliver’s mother, Lee Ann. “The staff are amazing, friendly and inclusive. Always there to help and make sure that your children are having fun.”

Oliver was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a form of cancer in the eye, when he was just 11 months old. At 2 years old, he began participating in PISE programs through funding from the Island Kids Cancer Association (IKCA). Not only did the funding allow Oliver to participate in PISE programs, it provided an opportunity for him, his older sister and other members of his family to find a peer group that had a shared life experience, while also learning

strategies to assist in the recovery process. The relationship between PISE and the IKCA was formed because a paediatric cancer diagnosis can be financially and emotionally devastating. With trips to BC Children’s Hospital on the mainland comes the expense of ferry trips, fuel, food, accommodation, not to mention time off work and any other unforeseen expenses. This financial constraint adds to the stress and emotions of supporting the child and family through treatment. The partnership with IKCA allows PISE to offer programs at either low or no cost to those families, easing the financial burden and providing a crucial outlet to build social connections and engage in quality physical activity.

Oliver is now an energetic 10-yearold that thrives in PISE spring and summer camps.

“We have continued to place Oliver into summer camps & March break camps at PISE,” Lee Ann continued. “His favourite so far is the summer cycling bike camp. He has become more confident, agile, and knowledgeable overall about bikes and bike safety in general.”

“Oliver says his favourite part of camps is making new friends and learning ‘sick’ bike moves,” Lee Ann said with a smile on her face. “He has developed many positive relationships and friendships with the staff and leaders throughout our years attending PISE. I have seen him grow and blossom during the summer,” beamed Lee Ann.

Our kids’ programs provide a friendly, safe and welcoming environment to explore movement

Oliver has been a participant at PISE activities since he was two years old

CHILDREN’S HEALTH FOUNDATION A NETWORK OF CARE

The Enns family of Victoria know first-hand the support provided by the Children’s Health Foundation. Spencer and Ruby, the two youngest of Harlan and Jennifer’s three children, have received care at Queen Alexandra Centre for Children’s Health for their shared primary condition, scoliosis, for over 13 years.

The Enns appreciate the integration of services in one place - doctors, orthotists, physiotherapists - developing a network of care for their children. Attending their appointments, Spencer and Ruby met other kids experiencing the same challenges and received encouragement that they were not alone in their challenges.

It’s this sense of belonging and caring that spurred Harlan and Jennifer to leave a gift to Children’s Health Foundation in their Will.

“It just made a lot of sense to us because our kids certainly have felt very cared for; we have felt well supported and so (leaving a gift in our Will) made a lot of sense,” said Harlan.

The Enns have an ethic of philanthropy and often give back to charities, local churches, and other

programs. After having children, Harlan and Jennifer knew they wanted to leave a gift in their Will to support not only their children, but children with complex health challenges.

“It feels intrinsically good knowing that your hardearned dollars will continue to give back to those who need it,” said Harlan.

Spencer and Ruby are thriving today, though with medical challenges. They have both moved on to higher education and are pursuing their own dreams.

For Harlan and Jennifer, Children’s Health Foundation helped their family have a life as normal as it could possibly be.

Asked about his hopes for Island kids and families, Harlan remarked:

“We hope that in the same way that our kids benefitted, other kids can have the treatment and the great care that we’ve had.”

For more information about leaving a legacy gift for Island kids, contact Shelley Engelhardt, Leadership & Legacy Giving Manager at shelley. engelhardt@islandkidsfirst. com or 250-940-4950 x120.

Island kid Ephraim

Shelley Engelhardt, Leadership & Legacy Giving Manager

KIDSPORT GREATER VICTORIA’S ONGOING COMMITMENT TO KIDS IN FINANCIAL NEED, SO ALL KIDS CAN PLAY

KidSport Greater Victoria is seeing a substantial increase in the number of local families requesting help to ensure their kids can access the benefits of organized sport, a trend driven both by the financial strain so many are facing, and an increased comfort level and desire to return to sport. We’re grateful to see more and more children and youth returning to the sports they love, and we’re thankful for the amazing donors who make it possible for us to support families in this way.

KidSport Greater Victoria is here to help local kids living in financial need. Over the last two decades, we have funded over 13,400 local children and youth into the sports of their choice. We have done so by providing over $3,500,000 in seasonof-sport registration fees to organizations and clubs throughout the Capital Regional District, so those children can get off the sidelines and into the game. Need among local families is significant. Thanks to Peninsula Co-op’s incredible

commitment to our 2022 Give the Gift of Sport campaign, supporters have an opportunity to double their impact until the end of December. The first $15,000 in local donations received will be matched by Peninsula Co-op. Donations of $20+ are tax deductible. To donate, please scan the QR code on this page for a direct link to the campaign page, or visit www.kidsportvictoria.ca.

KidSport Greater Victoria remains committed, for the long term, to ensuring ALL kids have opportunity to play. Through sport, children and youth gain resilience, confidence, leadership skills, work ethic, fitness, and much more.

Could you, or someone you know, use financial help to get your kids back in the game? Please visit www.kidsportvictoria.ca for more information or to apply for support.

In a position to donate or consider a fundraising event benefiting KidSport Greater Victoria? We would love to hear from you.

We’re on a mission to raise $30,000 to support local kids in financial need this holiday season! That’s a gift of sport for 100 children and youth who would otherwise be left out of the action.

Thank you to Peninsula Co-op for their amazing commitment to match up to $15,000 in donations received this season!

Give now at www.kidsportvictoria.ca and double your impact.

In the words of the parent of a recent grant recipient: “Our lives changed dramatically this year and I didn’t know if I would have the funds to keep my daughter in soccer. She’s already played for 5 years and was so worried about this year Thank you to all the people and organizations that support KidSport. You’ve kept a smile on my daughter’s and my face during a very difficult time.” M.

A chance for you to be twice as nice this holiday season!

OUR MISSION:

When a family is uprooted for their child’s critical medical treatment, there are many barriers they must overcome to stay together. Hotel stays are expensive, siblings need to be cared for, and staying in the hospital long-term is unsustainable. That’s where Ronald McDonald House BC and Yukon (RMH BC) comes in— providing accommodation and community to these families in need. 20% of the families who stay at RMH BC come from Vancouver Island.

At the House, families can stay together under the same roof with their seriously ill children and enjoy everyday family moments like a homecooked meal and snuggling up for superhero movie night. Most importantly, they can focus on helping their child to heal.

Staying at RMH BC also affects families long after their stay. A study by RBC found that families with seriously ill children experience a catastrophic financial burden that takes

an estimated 10 – 12 years to recover from. By staying at RMH BC, they can save between $3000 – $6000 per month, making them stronger once they return home.

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

RMH BC depends on generous community supporters like you to provide a home away from home for families when it matters most.

With the Holiday Season approaching us, there are many ways that you or your organization can help Light The House for the families who are currently staying at RMH BC. From Making a Generous Donation or joining our HouseWarmers Monthly Giving Club to Sponsoring a Christmas Tree in the House, your heartfelt gifts will help make RMH BC a home-away-from-home. Find out more at: www. rmhbc.ca/light-the-house/

Learn more about what we do at the House: 604736-2957 or info@rmhbc.ca

HABITAT

VICTORIA FAMILY FINDS A HOME

“It was the best-timed miracle,” says Travis, father of four, when he found out his family had qualified for a Habitat home. For Travis and Sabrina, finding a stable home for their family of six was challenging in the current housing market.

When their rental home of six years was sold, the family tried everything they could think of to find a suitable home. “We both work solid jobs and it still wasn’t easy for us to get ahead in the housing market in Victoria. This was make or break on whether we had a home or not, and now we do thanks to Habitat,” says Travis. An affordable home has an immediate impact on families that lasts through generations. It is an important foundation for reducing poverty and achieving economic growth. Habitat families experience better health, educational and economic outcomes.

Habitat for Humanity Victoria is a local charity that brings communities together to help families build strength, stability and independence through affordable homeownership. Since 1990, Habitat Victoria has built 34 homes locally and served 38 families.

A legacy gift in your will is an impactful way to help Habitat for Humanity Victoria support more families on their journey to affordable homeownership. You can bequeath cash, real estate, or securities. Your bequest can create a lasting memorial for you, your family or anyone you may wish to honor.

A significant contributor to the success of our charity includes our social enterprise, the ReStore. Arranging to have items donated to our ReStores not only gives back to Habitat Victoria; it also gives your items the chance at a second life.

You can achieve your financial and philanthropic goals at any stage of your life with a recurring gift of hope. You can choose to contribute monthly or at other designated regular intervals and no donation is too small. Have the peace of mind to know that your gift is arranged to occur just as planned.

For more information, or to make a donation, email giving@habitatvictoria. com, call 250-4807688 ext.103, or go to habitatvictoria.com

Even with two steady jobs, Victoria’s tight housing market made it a challenge

HELP ANIMALS LIKE BAILEY FIND A LOVING NEW LIFE

What does it mean to be a BC SPCA Forever Guardian? It means that you have lasting impact on the lives of animals in immediate need of care while also supporting the future of animal welfare.

That includes saving animals like Bailey. Bailey is a loving mom to 5 beautiful puppies. Not long ago Bailey and her pups were struggling to survive. Dirty floors… cramped living space…not enough food… Bailey was losing weight fast as she gave all of her nutrition to her nursing pups. On top of that, Bailey had inverted eyelids on both of her eyes. As she worked to care for her sweet babies, she could hardly see to know that they were okay.

But her pain didn’t last long, thanks to the kindness and love of Forever Guardians and other supportive animal lovers. Once she and her pups arrived in our care, Bailey had two surgeries to treat abscesses on her swollen feet. She also received surgery to fix her inverted eyelids, so she can now see more clearly and without pain.

Every step of the way in Bailey’s recovery, Forever Guardians were there. From

the moment her and her pups first arrived in our care, needing immediate food, shelter, and grooming, to the surgeries that removed her ongoing pain, to the ongoing care she received in order to transition to a loving new life in a caring home.

Forever Guardians give this care to animals today and long into the future. To learn more about joining this caring group of supporters with a kind gift in your will, visit foreverguardian.ca or contact Clayton Norbury at cnorbury@spca.bc.ca or by phone at 1.855.622.7722, ext. 6059.

forever guardians support a more humane, safe and caring future for animals in bc

BAILEY

VICTORIA COOL AID SOCIETY A PLACE TO CALL HOME

By pretty much anyone’s estimation, Marsha Mildon’s life has been chock full of adventure. She has trekked the Andes, lived in a tent in a pony paddock, slept in church pews in Vancouver, taught scuba diving, obtained two masters degrees, helped open a women’s shelter in Edmonton, and was editor of Law Now

But recently, the Mount Edwards resident and author had an experience that, by her own admission, sits near the top of that list. In 2021, Marsha was awarded the Grindstone International Novel Prize for her book, Dance Me a Revolution The work of (mostly) fiction is based on her time visiting and living in Peru, and it was written - for the most part - in 2017 while she was homeless and living in her car with her Golden Retriever, Brandon.

“It was the worst year of my life, without a doubt,” Marsha shares. “I went from employed and living in a home, to not employed and living in a trailer in a parking lot…and then in my car.” Fortunately, she found her way to Cool Aid – first to Rock Bay Landing and then to Mount Edwards in 2018 –where she has been (with Brandon) ever since.

Marsha, who has been to Peru eight times, calls Dance Me a Revolution the best book she has ever written, adding that it has been called “a love story to the people of Peru.” It touches on the difficult lives of the landless campesinos in the country and the universal reality that all parents want better lives for their children.

“Writing has always been my way of telling the stories of people who are desperate to change their lives,” Marsha says. “I wanted to show how the human spirit rises to try to live its best life, no matter the circumstances.” The parallels between the stories she writes, and her own life are not lost on Marsha.

“This book is the cumulation of most of my life,” Marsha reflects. “I have had an unorthodox life, for sure. I could have organized it better financially, but I would have missed half of what I experienced…I wouldn’t trade a minute of it.”

Marsha’s motto – found at the bottom of every email she sends - is “when in doubt, do something that fascinates you.” And she has followed that advice to the letter. Ever curious and seeking novelty, Marsha says she is already thinking about her next novel…about the adventures of a homeless woman detective.

FROM

THE BOOK COVER:

“Set in the lofty Andes mountains, Dance Me a Revolution follows tour guide Rosa Amaru as she struggles to reconcile her intense longing for the revolution that could return the Incas to power with the reality of Peruvian life for Andean peasants in the 1970/80s.”

Order your own copy on Marsha’s website now: https:// marshamildonwritingca. wordpress.com/

Cool Aid is Building for the Long Term

You can help with a gif t in your will

H ou sing a nd su p p or t for m ore t ha n 70 0 p e o ple, inc luding s enior s, a nd we a re building 282 new af ford a ble a pa r t m ent s for t he commu nit y

Cool Aid provides housing, health c are, and suppor t ser vices for more than 12,0 0 0 people ex periencing homeles snes s and living in pover t y in Greater V ic toria. Re c reation a nd t r aining ac ti v i tie s at t he D ow ntow n Com munit y Ce nt re, e m ploy ment o p po r tunitie s, and su p p o r t s er v ice s for 7,0 0 0 p e o ple a yea r

Cool Aid responded to the COVID 19 pandemic with a new Health Outreach Team that continues to provide vit al health c are to hundreds of people who f ace barrier s to acces sing c are coolaid.org • 250.414.4799 • langelini@coolaid.org

VICTORIA HOSPICE SOCIETY

CELEBRATE A LIFE

Grief can be a lonely feeling at any time of year, but during the holidays, the loss of someone important to us can be even harder.

Whether a loved one died recently or long ago, experiencing heightened feelings during the holidays is a common and normal part of grieving. Sharing memories and stories about the person who died can help.

Celebrate a Life is Victoria Hospice’s virtual gathering of

Celebrating Sondra “Sunny” Baileys

Everyone called our mom “Sunny”. A nickname she lived up to in every way. Sunny had an effervescent smile that lit up stages, dance floors, and living rooms. She had a magnetic sparkle in her eyes that drew you in. Sunny had an uncanny way of making people feel special and cared for. Throughout high school and university, my friends often invited themselves to our house. They knew a heaping plate of spaghetti and Sunny’s sympathetic ear could be found. Years later, when I ran into some of those old friends, they confided that Sunny was their “second mom”.

- Steven Baileys

Celebrating Bernie Dopko

My father was a man like no other. He had a zest for life and an appreciation for the simple things most take for granted. Whether he was out for a walk or on an adventure with the family, Bernie had an uncanny way of helping others slow down and truly “see” the inherent beauty in things we see on a daily basis – landscapes, animals, nature, art, or otherwise. He also had a unique and genuine way of connecting with people. You would often find him talking to complete strangers, listening intently to their stories, and wanting to know more about their lives.

- Erin Dopko

Celebrating Rose Johnson

tributes and reflections about loved ones who have died.

Celebrate a Life supports Victoria Hospice’s commitment to care through Bereavement Services, which includes professional counselling, support groups, and resources for people who are grieving. Victoria Hospice Bereavement Services relies almost entirely on community donations to support hundreds of local families each year.

Celebrating Paul Sekhon

Growing up, my dad was my best friend, a superhero. I always wanted to be with him. I’d go to floor hockey and hang out on the stage just to watch him play. I didn’t realize until my teen years how cool my dad was to everyone in his life. He was the oldest sibling, the oldest cousin, and a lot of younger people looked up to him, on both sides of the family and the next generations. He had the unique ability to connect at all levels and all generations. Bringing people together was his superpower, whether it was a party at the house or a BBQ or creating an event or making the party last even longer. You had to drag him off the dance floor.

- Javas Sekhon, pictured with Tarj Mann and Moe Sihota

Celebrating Ghislain “Jessie” Imbeault

My Dad was born on the Gaspé Peninsula in Quebec January 1942. He was the oldest of nine children. My Dad started working in the “bush” at a very young age – he ran chainsaws, drove a skidder, and even learned to drive a logging truck. He was fearless! My dad passed away much too young. He died in April of 2007 at the age of 65. I worked as a Health Care Attendant in extended care at that time and losing my father gave me a different perspective and an understanding of what families are going through when their loved ones are sick and in hospital.

- Line Gibbons

I keep this picture of my Grandma Rose on my fridge. She’s holding my brother Duncan, and I’m standing next to them. We had taken her down to the Victoria train station (when that was still a thing). She had not travelled much outside of Courtenay, but she loved train travel. I have kept this picture because it brings me joy as I pass by it, and it reminds me of her gentle teachings about life. Her calm presence eased any anxiety, it taught me that the world around us, although unpredictable, was manageable. When she transitioned from this earth, she left with the same grace she arrived to it with.

- Parker Johnson

At

Sharon Lam remembers her Mom, Margaret Ng. (More community stories at VictoriaHospice.org/Celebrate)

Celebrate your loved one by dedicating a star at VictoriaHospice.org/Celebrate

You can also fill out the form below and mail it to Victoria Hospice We will be honoured to add your star to the tree at the Victoria Hospice Community Support Centre Thank you for your support of end-of-life care

In 1974 Victoria Women’s Transition House (VWTH) opened an Emergency Shelter for women fleeing intimate partner violence. Since that day we have provided a safe refuge to thousands of women, with and without children, escaping violence and abuse. VWTH now provides support and services beyond the 30 day accommodation at our Emergency Shelter. Counselling, education, advocacy and outreach ensure that women looking for a better life, without violence and abuse, have the support they need to achieve it.

The impact of an abusive relationship can be long lasting, affecting every aspect of life. We help women at all stages of their lives, including women like Betty. Betty moved into our 50+ transition housing program after years of challenges and as a survivor of intimate partner violence. Adapting to the program was emotionally challenging, requiring a lot of change and hard work. There

were times when Betty was uncertain if she was going to be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. The VWTH team spent time with her to create multiple small goals and checked in regularly to ensure there was progress on her action plan.

Betty worked hard and has been moving forward. Last Christmas was a turning point. She sent this message to staff and donors:

A very special thank you for your care and support. After 2 years of not being able to see my daughter, it is because of your support, and the donations of this wonderful community, that I was able to provide a lovely Christmas, full of love, happiness and memories. My daughter said it was her favourite ever. You can imagine how much that meant to hear her say that. From my heart to all of yours many, many blessings and happy holidays. Thank you!

The re-gift boomerang

Through personal experience, I’ve discovered that gifts given with love are always best, while re-gifts given in the spirit of convenience can be fraught with peril.

I smile in reverie recalling a time when I was given a most unexpected gift at Christmas — a bizarre little vase that surpassed the definition of ugliness, and which I promptly banished into the depths of my china cabinet.

It sat there and sulked for years, except for the one and only time it was whipped out and sheepishly stuffed full of tiny flowers, as the esteemed visitor dropping by for tea was the elderly relative who originally gifted me the vase.

I thought she would be pleased to see it displayed on the table, but she turned an odd shade of green and ceased any further eye contact with it.

Some time later, an annual spring cleaning coincided with the birthday of a certain Friend #1 who adored unusual things. Unable to provide a thoughtful gift in time, and against my better judgement, I re-gifted that odd little vase to her, and begged her to only open it at home. Feeling guilty for the re-gift, I took her out later that week for a consolation tea. When I asked after the little vase, she exhibited a terse frivolity and

abruptly switched subjects.

Fast forward another decade, as to when I actually received this very same vase once more as a Christmas gift, from yet a different friend — a Friend #2. Trying not to recoil in horror, I think I clasped a hand lamely to my chest and croaked with all sincerity: “I can’t believe it! You shouldn’t have!”

Friend #2 misunderstanding my shock, smiled with blatant relief in her eyes.

Against my better judgement, I quickly regifted this vase as a “just-because present” to an unsuspecting Friend #3 as she literally headed off for home after dropping by for a coffee.

About a year after that, Friends #4, #5, #6 and #7, and I met up at Friend #8’s for coffee.

To my chagrin, upon washing my hands in her bathroom, there it was, perched triumphantly on Friend #8’s spotless bathroom counter. Oddly enough, Friend #8 had never, ever, met Friend #3.

Ironically, when we left that afternoon, Friend #8 hastily insisted that Friend #5 take the vase … as #5 had (foolishly) commented on how perfectly unique she thought it was. There were a few vehement tokens of “No, no, I couldn’t possibly” by #5, but it was to no avail.

It’s a fact. Covert re-gifting exists. It seems

everyone does it … and I cling tenaciously to the hope that by now, that hideous little vase has been long since been recycled or crushed scathingly beneath someone’s heel.

What a Re-gifting Trail Tale that little vase could tell … but maybe it’s best not knowing.

Re-gifting truth is truly stranger than fiction.

Barbara Bruce

Kind gestures never forgotten

It was Christmas 1963 — six years after immigrating to New Westminster from Germany — and my family, the Karters, were invited by someone my father had met on his Fuller Brush rounds.

I do not remember the name of the wonderful folks who lived in Coquitlam, but it was a full Christmas dinner with turkey and all the trimmings. This was the kindest gesture you can imagine and I am still very grateful that these folks shared a wonderful meal with us.

We had arrived July 7, 1957 in Vancouver at the Canadian National Railway station on Main Street. My parents had sold everything we had to come to Canada and we arrived with some wooden boxes and suitcases.

We travelled by ship from Bremerhaven, Germany to Quebec City on the Greek liner, Neptunia. The trip was seven days and us kids had a wonderful time and the best meals ever. The next big adventure was travelling the Canadian National Railway, which took three days and we arrived exhausted in Vancouver.

Our family celebration of Christmas is on Dec. 24, not Dec. 25 as

Canadians do. Our first Christmas in Canada saw the Lutheran church give each of us girls a small gift, which were so kindly received. Our Christmas tree was lit with real candles and lametta.

Christmas in 1962 was a special time because after this we had lost our eldest sister who was killed in a car crash. It was the last Christmas together with all five of us.

Our traditional dinner on Christmas Eve was breaded fish with noodles, soup and potato salad. We had German stritz (light fruit cake) for dessert. Father would read the Christmas Story and then we could eat. Christmas music a must and there was always small gifts to open.

I carry this tradition on with my family and remember my parents being very brave to start a new life in Canada.

There is a lesson to always be kind to all those who cross your path.

I will cherish these memories forever.

Gabriele Osborne Parksville

Cherishing my dad’s memory and his silver trophy

It doesn’t look like much by today’s standards, but back in the 1950s my dad won an award for decorating the front of our house.

Decorating the outside of our homes for Christmas was something new back then.

I still have the silver bowl he won as a trophy and polish it every year as Christmas approaches.

My father, Frank Robinson, who served in the navy and was a long-time employee at Victoria City Hall, started making decorations for the outside of our home on Bank Street in the early 1950s.

The Victoria Junior Chamber of Commerce at the time wanted to encourage homeowners to put up a few Christmas lights, so the Christmas Lighting Contest was initiated.

Dad decided that he could probably afford to put up a few lights at the front door and in the front living room window, and make some of the decorations himself.

Some tufts of cotton glued to the glass with library paste would form the snow flakes. We were still burning wood and coal in our furnace and the condensation on single pane windows made a bit of a mess of the fake snow. Meanwhile, mother’s new refrigerator was put on hold, but we had the only lighted house in the neighbourhood, and I was a proud son in my early teens.

Dad persisted with the lighting contest for a few years and as a list of contest entries grew it became an annual family tradition to drive around with the Daily Colonist’s published list of homes that had entered to check out the competition. (The Times Colonist continues to publish a Christmas Light Tour map each year at Christmas, so families can venture out and view lights across the capital region).

Finally, in 1959, we won first prize for the best decorated window and door. Dad made and painted choir singers and musical notes out of wood in the basement that hung down one side of our door, and made a curved plywood frame that made our front door look like a cathedral entrance, along with stars from a department store. A homemade wreath with electric lights hung outside.

The prize was a nine-inch diameter engraved silver rose bowl.

I’m still very proud of my dad, who passed away in 2004.

Dennis Robinson Saanich

Dinner with Dickens

That Christmas my dear friend from Whitehorse and her youngest son came to Victoria to spend time with her father and mother, who was receiving her cancer treatment.

It was my youngest son who pulled the book down from the shelf, and said: “Hey, let’s do this.”

Everyone got involved.

Dark fruit cake and plum pudding got steamed and baked. Apples were pressed for apple cider. Bacon wrapped scallops were barbecued for the fish course.

Each son took turns washing their grandmother’s fine china.

The turkey was presented, and the plum pudding flamed beautifully (that was so much fun, let’s do it every year, I exclaimed).

People took turns reading the staves, and there was joyous laughter during the parlour games.

One of the highlights was the reading of the Biblical Christmas story from the shepherd’s point of view that I had written.

Grace was said around 5:30 p.m., and after the last sips of ‘smoking bishop,’ we finally bid our goodbyes at 11p.m.

Watching A Christmas Carol is as much a tradition in our family as enjoying the Christmas turkey.

So when my youngest son was 10, and I saw an advertisement that Gerald Charles Dickens was to come to Victoria, and like his great-great grandfather Charles Dickens, read A Christmas Carol, we had to go. The performance was held in an upstairs room at the old Crystal Pool.

All ages had decided to enjoy the performance, but instead of the usual fidgeting or frantically whispered conversations with little ones, you could have heard a pin drop.

With just a few simple props, you felt like you had entered Ebenezer Scrooge’s world, and discovered the generosity and bonhomie that he found. At that performance, I purchased the book, Christmas with Dickens by Cedric Dickens.

In it, the entire story is shortened to 25 minutes, and between the staves a Victorian style meal is served. It was quickly placed on a bookshelf, and ignored, but not forgotten, for about 10 years.

In the aftermath of cleanup, each of us recognized that something very special happened that night.

For the 12 who sat around the table, we knew we had been blessed.

It was Rita Mooney’s last Christmas. She died the following June. My friend and our family are so very, very grateful that we got to share this very special event together.

Since that time, we continue our Dinner with Dickens, although not always on Christmas Day.

Faces have changed, but not the reactions.

As a family, it is our delight and joy to share this occasion that has created good memories each year for friends and family alike.

Lois Gray

Two dads, one Santa suit

When I was just a wee lad in Saskatoon, about 69 years ago, Santa came to our house on Christmas Eve.

He sort of looked familiar, but I wasn’t really sure. I mostly just saw a big Santa suit and a big sack. I was in awe. I don’t think I said a word, except for maybe thank you. I am sure I must have been nice. I don’t remember being naughty … most of the time.

Santa reached in his sack and pulled out a present for me. It was a toy road grader. He gave presents to my brother and sisters, too. But I only saw the road grader I held. And then he left. You know, Santa had a lot of houses to visit.

The road grader was made of metal, and we still have it. The toy was built to last.

Over the years, the grader lost its blade, but the wheels still work. It survived me and my friends, then my kids and my grandson.

I found out later about that Santa. My dad and his good friend, Wilson Matthews, decided that they would play Santa for each other’s kids. So they rented one Santa suit and took turns.

The first issue was fit. My dad was 6-foot-2. Mr. Matthews was 5-foot-6. But somehow, they made the one Santa suit work.

My older sister said that years later she compared notes with one of the Matthews boys. When Santa came to our house the pant leg covered the boot, but at their house you could see part of Santa’s bare leg.

Now, where did they get dressed, so the kids couldn’t see them? Well, the only solution was to put the Santa suit on in a parking lot. This is December in Saskatchewan. It might have been 40 below. It might have been warmer than that, but you know how it is with retelling stories over the years. Some facts may get exaggerated. However, for sure, it was never as warm as in Victoria. There was probably wind blowing and snow flurries.

Apparently, the dads were laughing and having so much fun.

All these years later, I still remember the effort and the love and kindness given to their kids by two good friends.

Thanks dads.

A doll for her daughter, in the nick of time

It was 1941 in a small Prairie city and my mom had gone all out for Christmas, which was just one week away.

The small tree with its bubble lights and icicles lit up the living room. The red and green crepe paper streamers with a large bell in the middle decorated the ceiling.

Fruit cakes and various cookies and candy were mellowing in their secret location.

Dozens of cards and letters with five-cent stamps had been mailed.

She had even been lucky enough to find a doll for five-year-old Doreen and had found time to make some doll clothes. Dolls were almost impossible to find that year and for weeks she had been trying to find one for three-year-old Beverley. Both girls were excited as they waited for Christmas Eve when Santa would deliver the dolls. Of that, the daughters had no doubt!

But mom’s heart was heavy. There were no dolls at Eaton’s, Woolworth’s, Hoyt’s Hardware or anywhere else she tried. It was

unbearable for her to imagine Beverley’s disappointment when she found the Tinker Toys Santa left her instead of a doll.

On the day before Christmas she was compelled to try one last time to find the elusive doll. After a fruitless search, she sadly joined the queue in Eaton’s toy department to buy some coloring books and crayons for the stockings.

The cashier wished her a merry Christmas and mom’s eyes filled with tears as she explained how disappointed her little girl would be when the doll she longed for would not arrive with Santa.

Mom never forgot what happened next.

From under the counter, the cashier brought a beautiful doll that had been returned a few minutes earlier.

With a smile the cashier said: “Merry Christmas.”

To mom it was a Christmas miracle.

Shari Konchak

Brian Gray

FIRESIDE GRILL

According to Fireside Grill’s culinary team, their prime rib roast recipe “is the only one you’ll ever need.”

Tim Petropoulos, managing Partner of Fireside Grill, shares their restaurant’s recipe and techniques so you can create a mouth-watering roast right at home.

Why Prime Rib Roast?

“It is the king of beef cuts. It’s a beautifully marbled piece of meat,” states Petropoulos. “Prime rib roast is also called a standing rib roast, as it’s positioned on the rib bones in the roasting pan while it cooks.”

However, it can be cooked bone-in or bone-out. “At Fireside, we use bone-out prime rib for better service,” he continues. “If you’re not sure which to use, consult and become friends with the butcher at your local Red Barn Market”.

“You must start with the right meat”

“We’re a bit old school here at the Fireside Grill and buy only AAA Alberta beef. There are many variations of beef so feel free to make your own choice, but always choose well-marbled as that’s where the flavour comes from”, Petropoulos says.

“For estimating how big a roast you’ll need, I prefer a larger roast, so it doesn’t overcook, and makes for lots of leftovers but a good rule of thumb is to account for about one pound per person”.

Prepping the meat

“We start by trimming the excess fat from the beef. At Fireside Grill, we tie our roast before we rub it with spices, but at home, it’s not usually necessary”, Petropoulos says. “For the rub, we use one of our original

How to cook the perfect prime rib roast

Fireside Seasoning Recipes but any good seasoning salt like Hy’s Seasoning Salt will do, or just plain salt and pepper. We also add Dijon mustard and dried rosemary from our restaurant gardens.”

“Be very generous with seasoning and mustard as it adds to the flavour,” he shares. “At the restaurant, we leave the rub on for 24 hours in the refrigerator, but you can do this right before cooking.”

A crucial step to cooking the perfect prime rib roast is to let it sit on the counter for at least 4-5 hours before cooking so it reaches room temperature, about an hour per pound. “This assures the beef will be more tender and will cook evenly throughout,” Petropoulos explains. If it’s the least bit cold in the middle when you put it in the oven, you could end up with a very rare roast, so getting it to room temperature is essential”.

What’s the right cooking temperature?

“For the perfect prime rib roast, inserting a digital probe thermometer into the center or thickest part of the roast before and during cooking is the best way to ensure the perfect doneness,” claims Petropoulos.

He describes their method at Fireside: “We set the roast in a pan on a rack in a preheated oven at 500° F for 15 minutes to achieve browning on the outside of the roast, then reduce heat to 325-350° F for the duration of the cooking time, approximately 12-15 minutes per pound. This ensures the meat in the center doesn’t get overcooked” he says.

“We cook our prime rib on the rarer side, or until the thermometer reads about 110° F. The center should be a vibrant pink,

however, for those who can’t tolerate pink, the ends are always well done, so there’s the perfect slice for everyone,” Petropoulos assures.

Determining when it’s done

“After cooking, transfer the meat to a cutting board, loosely tent it with foil and let it sit for 20 minutes to allow the juices to seal back into the meat. If you don’t let the meat rest long enough, you could end up with a chewy prime rib roast,” warns Petropoulos.

“As the roast rests, the internal temperature will rise 5 - 10 degrees. After the resting period you want it to read: 115° F for a rare roast; 120° F for medium-rare; and 130° F for medium,” he adds.

Slicing and serving

The Petropoulos way is to cut through the centre and then work your way to the ends and then serve. “Cut the meat across the grain. If you don’t, the meat can be tough and chewy.”

To finish, pair the meat with au jus or gravy, horseradish, mashed potatoes, Yorkshire Pudding, and your favourite vegetables, as suggested by Petropoulos.

Now enjoy that fantastic piece of beef or just come by Fireside Grill on a Sunday and let them cook for you!

Located 10 minutes from downtown Victoria, Fireside Grill is open year-round for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. This lovingly restored, Tudor-style heritage home is the perfect venue for a romantic meal, group gathering, or private party. Visit the Fireside Grill at 4509 West Saanich Rd and see their menus at firesidegrill.com

This recipe is the only one you’ll ever need.

Yorkshire Puddings

Here’s a no-fuss way to make Yorkshire puddings where you don’t have to pour the batter into a smoking hot, oil-filled pan to make them. You’ll need a goodquality, non-stick muffin pan to make them. Don’t use an old scratched pan, or they’ll likely stick. Recipe can be doubled.

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 45 to 50 minutes

Makes: six puddings

3 large eggs

1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp milk

1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp water

• salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• pinch ground nutmeg

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

• vegetable oil spray

Beef Pan Gravy

When the roast is cooked to your liking, transfer it to a plate, tent with foil and rest 10 minutes.

Make gravy by setting the roasting pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 1/4 cups of stock (or

ORDERONLINE AT firesidegrill.com

Set an oven rack in the middle position. Preheat oven to 450 F. Place eggs in a bowl and beat until well blended. Whisk in milk, water, salt, pepper and nutmeg. Now whisk in the flour until just combined.

Very thoroughly grease a six-cup, good-quality (not scratched) non-stick muffin pan with vegetable-oil spray (see Eric’s options). Pour in the batter, filling each cup almost to the top. Bake for 10 minutes.

Reduce oven temperature to 325 F and bake 35 to 40 minutes more, or until the Yorkshire puddings are puffed and golden and almost dry in the centre.

Set on a baking rack and cool a few minutes. Now carefully remove the Yorkshire puddings and set on a baking sheet.

You can bake the puddings many hours before needed. Once cooled, cover and keep at room temperature until ready to reheat and serve with the roast. To do that, once the roast is out of the oven and resting, uncover the Yorkshire puddings and pop them in the oven until warm, about five minutes or so.

Eric options: If you don’t have a six-cup muffin pan, grease six-cups of 12-cup muffin pan with oil spray and divide the batter between those cups.

broth) and bring to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift off any tasty brown bits. Place remaining 1/2 cup of stock and flour in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Now whisk this mixture into the pan. Return to a simmer, and

Sleigh

simmer a few minutes, until lightly thickened gravy forms. If the gravy becomes thicker than you’d like, add a bit more stock (or broth). Taste and season the gravy with salt and pepper.

the

Game! gift giving

That delightful holiday aroma of baking cookies

Imust admit I’m often the last one in my family to catch the holiday spirit. But the Grinch in me always fades when I make my first batch of Christmas cookies.

It’s impossible not to feel uplifted after baking sweet treats so aromatic that seconds after they come out of the oven, I know exactly what time of year it is. It’s even more joyful when I later get to share my home-baked goodies with loved ones. That was my mood when baking today’s four recipes. Because I know many folks are busy at this time of year, I decided the cookies should be easy to make, but still rich and wonderful.

All are classic Christmas cookies with a twist, such as using cane sugar in my shortbread and blending in five types of spice. Or giving my ginger cookies a double hit of that taste by using both ground and crystallized ginger.

All recipes could be doubled if you need a greater volume. Some could also be halved.

All cookies, if kept in a tight-sealing container at cool room temperature, will keep at least three weeks, but likely won’t last that long.

Heavenly spiced Cane Sugar Shortbread

This shortbread is flavoured with cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, allspice and vanilla. Cane sugar, also called turbinado sugar, is sold in most supermarkets.

Preparation: 20 minutes, plus chilling time

Cooking time: 22 minutes, per sheet of cookies Makes: About 36 to 40 cookies

1 1/2 cups butter, at room temperature

3/4 cup golden cane sugar

2 tsp pure vanilla extract

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

1/8 tsp ground allspice

1/8 tsp ground cloves

36 to 40 whole skin-on almonds or pecan halves

Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Place butter, sugar and vanilla in a bowl and beat until light and smooth. Add flour and spices and mix just until dough begins to hold together.

Roll the dough into 1 1/4-inch balls and set them on the baking sheets, spacing each cookie about two inches apart. Set an almond (or pecan half) in the centre of each cookie, gently pressing it in.

Chill the cookies in the refrigerator for 20 minutes (this will help them hold their shape once in the hot oven).

Preheat the oven to 300 F. Bake cookies, one sheet at a time, for 22 minutes, or until they begin to very lightly brown, are slightly firm to the touch and are just cooked through.

Cool cookies on a baking rack. Now transfer and store in a tight-sealing container at cool room temperature until you’re ready to enjoy them.

Christmas Snowballs with Nuts, Orange and Cranberries

This small, rich, buttery style of snowballshaped cookie also goes by other names, such as Mexican wedding cookies and Russian teacakes. No matter what you call them, they are a decadent treat and not difficult to make.

Preparation: 40 minutes

Cooking time: 10 minutes, per sheet of cookies

Makes: 36 to 40 cookies

1 cup butter, at room temperature

1 1/2 cups icing sugar (divided)

1 tsp vanilla extract

• finely grated zest of 1 small orange

1 Tbsp orange juice

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup pecan or walnuts halves, finely chopped

1/3 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped

Preheat the oven to 400 F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Place the butter, 1/2 cup of the icing sugar, vanilla and orange zest and juice in a bowl and beat until smooth and light. Mix in the flour, nuts and cranberries.

Roll the dough into one-inch balls and set them on the baking sheets, spacing each cookie about two or three inches apart from the next. Bake cookies, one sheet at a time, for 10 minutes, or until just set and light brown on the bottom.

Cool cookies on baking rack for 10 minutes. Place remaining 1 cup of icing sugar in a pie plate or shallow bowl. When cookies have cooled 10 minutes, roll and coat each cookie with icing sugar, then set back on the baking sheet. When cookies have completely cooled, roll them once more in icing sugar. Now transfer and store the cookies in a tightsealing container at cool room temperature until you’re ready to enjoy them.

Double Ginger Cookies with Mini Chocolate Chips

Using both ground and crystallized ginger gives these cookies two lovely hits of that spice. Chocolate adds even more flavour. You can buy crystallized ginger in the bulk-food section of most supermarkets.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 15 minutes, per sheet of cookies Makes: About 30 cookies

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 tsp baking soda

2 tsp ground ginger

• pinch ground cloves

2 Tbsp finely diced crystallized ginger

1/4 cup mini chocolate chips

1/3 cup butter, at room temperature

1 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 tsp white vinegar

1/4 cup molasses

• granulated sugar for rolling

Preheat the oven to 325 F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Place the flour, baking soda, ground ginger and cloves in a bowl and whisk to combine. Mix in crystallized ginger and chocolate chips.

Place butter and sugar in the bowl of your stand mixer and beat until light and well combined, about three to four minutes (see note). Beat in the egg, vinegar and molasses. Add the flour mixture and beat until just combined.

Spread some granulated sugar on a plate. Roll the dough into one-inch balls, lightly roll in the granulated sugar, and then place on the baking sheets, spacing the balls about two inches apart. Bake cookies, one sheet at a time, for 15 minutes. Cool on a rack, then store in an airtight container at cool room temperature until you’re ready to serve them.

Note: If you don’t have a stand mixer, you could vigorously beat the cookie dough with a wooden spoon. Hand-held electric mixers don’t work well with this batter.

Swedish-style Pepparkakor

After baking, the flavour of these spice-rich cookies seems to get even better if aged a little. A week or two in a tightsealing container at room temperature is what I would recommend, but in my house these cookies never seem to stay around that long.

Preparation time: 40 to 50 minutes, plus overnight resting

Cooking time: 10-12 minutes, per sheet Makes: 6 to 7 dozen cookies (or more or less, depending on size of cookie cutter)

3 cups all-purpose flour, plus some for the work surface

1 cup granulated sugar

2 tsp baking soda

1 tsp ground cardamom

1 tsp ground ginger

1 tsp ground cloves

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 cup butter, at room

temperature

1/2 cup cooking molasses

1 large egg, beaten

3 Tbsp 2 per cent or whole milk

Place the 3 cups flour, sugar, baking soda and spices in a large bowl, or bowl of your stand mixer, and mix well to combine.

Place the butter and molasses in a small pot set over low heat. Mix and stir until the butter is melted and combined with the molasses. Cool a few minutes, and then add the butter mixture, and the egg and milk, to the flour mixture and beat with an electric mixer or by hand, or with the paddle attachment of your stand mixer, until well combined. Dough will appear quite wet.

Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface. Cut dough into quarters. Set one quarter of the dough on a large sheet of plastic wrap. Flatten the dough until about 1-inch thick. Securely wrap and refrigerate

overnight. Repeat these steps with the remaining three pieces of dough.

To make cookies, preheat oven to 350 F. Unwrap one of the dough quarters and set on a lightly floured surface. With a lightly floured rolling pin, roll the dough to 1/8-inch thick. Cut dough with cookie cutters and place on a large, or two if smaller, parchment paperlined cookie sheets. Gather up the scraps of dough, and roll and cut into cookies as well. Bake in the middle of the oven (one sheet at a time if using two sheets) 10-12 minutes, or until set. Repeat these steps with other dough quarters.

Once completely cooled, transfer cookies to cookie tins or containers.

Note: This dough, unbaked and tightly wrapped, will keep in the refrigerator several days. It also freezes well; thaw in refrigerator overnight before using.

Northern European pepper or gingerbread cookies. These nicely spiced, festive pepper (gingerbread) cookies, are popular in northern European countries, such as Latvia and Sweden.

ERIC AKIS

Cranberry Orange Cornmeal Cookies

These crisp cookies have appealing bits of dried cranberry and orange zest.

Preparation time: 20 minutes, plus chilling time

Cooking time: 12 minutes

Makes: about 24 cookies

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornmeal

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped

1/3 cup butter, at room temperature

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 tsp almond extract

1 tsp finely grated orange zest

• pinch of salt

1 large egg

Combine flour, cornmeal, baking powder and chopped cranberries in a bowl.

In a second bowl, or in the bowl of a stand mixer, beat butter, sugar, almond extract, orange zest and salt until well combined. Add egg and beat until well combined.

Add flour mixture to the butter mixture and beat until a dough results.

Roll the dough into an eight-inch log, place on a sheet of parchment paper and roll up. Slightly flatten two sides of the log to make a rectangular shape. Refrigerate dough until firm, about one hour.

Preheat oven to 350 F. Unwrap and cut the log of dough into 1/4-inch thick slices and arrange on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet 1/2-inch apart. Bake, in the middle of the oven, 12 minutes, or until light golden and set. Cool on a rack, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Cookies could also be frozen.

Eric Akis is the author of eight cookbooks. His columns appear in the Times Colonist.

ERIC AKIS

FESTIVE PLANTS FOR CHRISTMAS

Making them last all year

Bringing greenery and flowering plants into the house at Christmas is a spirit-lifting tradition that reaches far back into history.

Green and berried boughs in a dwelling during the darkest, coldest part of the year were symbols of faith that light and warmth, fresh growth, fertility and life would, at winter’s end, return to the land and nourish the family.

In these times, we also long to enliven the dark, isolating world of winter.

We string coloured lights indoors and out, and bask in the warmth of family, friends and Yuletide festivities.

And we brighten our homes with lively holiday plants. Here are some to consider, with thoughts on how to care for them.

Amaryllis

Rings of imposing, trumpet-shaped flowers displayed atop thick stalks make the amaryllis a dramatic plant to display alone, surrounded by Christmas greenery, or paired with a second amaryllis or paperwhite narcissus.

As with the poinsettia, red is the most popular amaryllis colour during the holidays. Red and white amaryllis make an effective display together.

After flowering is finished, remove the stalk at its base and continue watering to keep the foliage growing.

A summer outdoors with regular watering and a little fertilizing will help to re-plump the bulb.

Some amaryllis will begin to die down during the summer. Let the soil dry and store in a cool place until October. Then repot and start the bulb into growth again.

Other amaryllis plants will continue producing lush foliage year round. You have the option of treating these like indooroutdoor plants to bring indoors at summer’s end and put back out in the spring. Such plants will often yield summer flowers.

Poinsettia

Of all the plants sold at Christmas, the red poinsettia remains the most traditional and popular, though poinsettias are available in white, cream, peach, pink and colour combinations. The reds vary, from light and bright to dark and velvety. Among poinsettias, there is a plant size for every type of space, from miniatures for window sills to substantial specimens capable of making a splashy show in large areas.

Today’s poinsettias stay colourful and perky throughout the winter, given a few simple conditions that include bright winter light, slightly cool, even room temperatures and watering when the soil feels dry and the pot feels light when lifted. Leaf drop can be avoided by maintaining an even soil moisture and placing the plant out of hot or cold drafts.

Though it is common to opt for eventually composting poinsettias, the plants can be nurtured through to another season of Christmas colour. In late winter to early spring, look for fresh shoots along the stems. Prune back the stems, making each cut right above healthy new leaves. Then, re-pot into a slightly wider container. When nights are no longer chilly in the spring, set the plant outdoors in bright filtered light. Through early summer, pinch back shoot tips to induce bushiness.

Bring the plant indoors in September, before overnight temperatures dip below what they would be inside the house.

Long nights, with no artificial light between dusk and dawn, from the end of September onward (10 weeks of 10-hour days) will colour the bracts again for Christmas.

Christmas cactus

These are long-life plants, often kept in families over decades. They are easily propagated by firming the base of a leaf pad into a small pot of soil mix. Position this forest cactus in bright light and coolish room temperatures. Keep the soil just slightly moist. After the plant finishes blooming, rest it by watering very little, just enough to keep it from shriveling. Early in the spring, resume regular watering and set the plant outdoors in filtered light for the summer.

Begin reducing water around mid-August, to start hardening new growth in preparation for bud set. Dry conditions, cool nights and naturally shortening days all contribute to a good set of Christmas cactus flower buds. Helen Chesnut is the Times Colonist garden columnist.

Holiday crackers are so last season.

H o l i d ay l ef tove r s a re t h e u l t i m ate holiday party favour. Ask your dinner guests to bring a reus able container so they can en joy your meal for the next day or week!

S ave m o re a n d wa s te l e ss t h i s holiday season.

For more tips check out : crd.bc .ca/lovefood