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Managing Editor: Carly Foster Art Director: Kirsty Kernohan
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From The Publishers
With the holidays so closely passed, and a new year – a new decade! – upon us, we are ever so grateful for our families, friends and neighbourhoods the past year. We extend an extra special thank you to our readers for donating a mountain of pajamas, toys, craft supplies, food and treats (one resident knit four kid’s hats!) for our adopted family of six. See page 4 for a photo. Each month we want to present you with a look at the unique faces that make up our community. These come in all shapes, sizes and forms – even buildings count, right? Read our feature about one of the recreation anchors in town on page 5. Speaking of faces, we put a name to one with a Q&A of a local snow plow driver on page 7. One of his comments will leave you with a whole new view of the people who frustratingly pile the end of your driveway with snow right after you shovel (you’ll forgive him, too). We have another restaurant review (page 13), mom’s recipes (page 14) and tips for with kids (page 11) and winter safety for seniors (page 15) and much more. Keep this magazine on your coffee table this frosty month. We promise you it’s a great guide to our town – see another packed events calendar on page 8 – and best enjoyed with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
Publisher is not responsible for any
typographical errors. Advertisers are responsible for any copyright issues. No part of this publication may be
reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher.
Copyright Sweet World Media 2010.
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Quilt Winner!
Sarah Best, centre, was the lucky winner of this quilt made during The 30 Hour Quilt Marathon, held earlier this year at Quilters Cupboard. The quilt was donated by Sue Carmichael (L) of Quilters Cupboard to the Uxbridge Cottage Hospital Auxiliary President Terry Kerber (R), as a fundraising project. The monies raised will be used to assist with the recent purchase of the digital mammography unit.
Moms on a mission for better nutrition
Are you concerned about the quality of food at your child's daycare or school? Join this new group to work towards feeding the children of Uxbridge the right foods for a strong nutritional foundation for health. How do we make healthy food cool? How do we engage the community? For meeting details, call 4164275080.
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Super pets, super cause
The 2010 UxbridgeScugog Animal Shelter calendar is here! For just $10, you can support our local home for stray and injured animals. All the photos are submitted by residents, with 13 super pets featured. Available at the shelter at 1360 Reach St., Port Perry, and petfriendly establishments and vets in Uxbridge. For more information, email yoursuperpetcalendar@yahoo.com or call 9059858771.
It’s minus youdon’twanttoknow outside, and the damp, hot wave of air that hits my face as I enter Uxpool is welcoming this time of year. My glasses instantly fog up, and I mistake Carolyn for someone else. That’s a big faux pas here, because Carolyn Clementson knows everyone that walks through these doors. I haven’t officially met her yet, and she already knows me as I shake blustery snow from my hair and squint across the glassfront counter that houses goggles, swim caps and ear plugs. As the aquatics coordinator for the Township’s pool, it’s her job to know everything swimming related, but it’s a special talent to greet people by name with a friendly smile. This personal touch is just one reason why approximately 2,000 people walk this same threshold each year. Despite its middleaged bones – Uxpool opened in 1967 – the facility at 1 Parkside Dr. is well used and well loved by those that frequent its waters.
Friends & exercise
Arley Armstrong, 87, swims here three times a week. He guffaws when I call him an interloper after learning he moved to Uxbridge in 1999 to be closer to his children. An Imperial Oil employee for 35 years, he says swimming has become a habit. “I’m not a good swimmer. Never have been,” he admits, holding onto the side of the pool and bobbing in the warm waves from passerby. “But the exercise from swimming uses all the muscles. “I have arthritis, you see,” he adds. “It hurts like hell when I get out of the water, but I don’t feel a thing in here. The minute I step up the stairs, it feels like I put on 100 lbs.” Armstrong also swims for the gossip. He and his fellow senior citizen swimmers swim slow laps while chatting and laughing. “I enjoy the people here,” he says. “We have a lot of fun. They’ve all been here a long time.” In between dinners out and events and the Uxbridge Legion, Armstrong is such a regular swimmer that Clementson says they call his house to make sure everything is alright when he does not show. “The pool doesn’t get enough use,” Armstrong says. “More people need to.”
A community anchor
Uxpool is unique in that it draws people of all ages. Babies as young as four months can take a Starfish class, while Masters Swimming invites those over 18 to improve fitness and swimming ability in regular team practices. The pool offers many courses to become lifeguards and swim instructors. And anyone who has lived in town any length of time knows of our award winning Uxbridge Swim Club, which brings together youth 818 in a competitive team. The most popular program is learntoswim. “It provides a positive atmosphere …to wear off some energy and learn a skill,” Clementson says of the kids who learn to swim at Uxpool, calling it “a stepping stone for kids growing up in Uxbridge.” The program is even free for Grade 3 students via The Stephanie Gaetz Keepsafe Foundation. While most would automatically think children when hearing of this, Clementson says each year there are many adults coming in as well. “Most just never learned to swim,” she says, adding its surprising when swimming seems just like learning to ride a bike as a kid. “Some learn because of their own
kids. They want to feel comfortable in the water, and in case of emergencies. “People consider it more of a life skill because of the number of bodies of water in Canada – we have so many lakes, rivers etc. It’s important.” Other Uxpool programs include lane swimming, family swim, aqua wellness and aqua fit, plus squash courts and a multitude of fitness programs upstairs. Last January saw a surprise 90th birthday party for an aqua fit member, complete with party hats and a tiara for the birthday girl. “It really is an anchor for a lot of the recreation programs in the community,” Clementson says. I ask her to list some programs, and she grins before taking a deep breath and firing them off. “We do all the planning, run the camps, the indoor walking trail, private fitness classes such as taekwondo and Salsa Babies, regular first aid and babysitting courses.” The pool averages 20 people a day for lunchtime lane swim, and teaches 500 kids swimming lessons every three months; people come from neighbouring communities without pools, including Port Perry and Mt. Albert. Thirtyfive staff keep the facility running.
Generation of Swimmers
At just 2 yearsold, Ellen McDonald already swims, as they say, like a fish. Outfitted in a mini, short sleeved wetsuit and lifejacket, she paddles and kicks her way to a floating blue whale a few feet from the steps in the shallow end, grabs the tail, and splish splashes back. Her grandfather, Stu Evans, moved to Uxbridge in 1973, but was already using Uxpool before then, playing squash while living in Whitevale. He started swimming regularly shortly after, and now suits up three to seven days a week. A selfproclaimed “big pool user,” Evans used to sit on the pool’s board, and made swimming a family affair: All three of his children went through swimming lessons at Uxpool, while two were lifeguards and continue to teach in the evenings after their regular full time jobs because they enjoy it so much. He regularly brings all four of his grandkids to swim. “It’s easy to do, and doesn’t cost a lot of money,” Evans says. He does the front crawl when he’s here doing laps. “It beats going to the gym. “It’s just a great facility for a town this size,” he adds. “We’ve had the pool for such a long time, and we’re lucky to have it.” For more information on Uxpool, call 905852 7831.
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Wrap self in alpacayour warmth
We fell in love with this shawl that hangs in the shop window, glowing like a fuzzy beacon of warmth. Made from super soft baby alpaca fur, it’s seven times as warm and three times as light as sheep’s wool. The kit is great for beginners, and uses large needles – perfect to learn on. One size fits all, and any colour can be ordered in. $60 at On the Lamb
Doughnut deliciousness
They line the window each morning, apple fritters and honey glazed and crabapple jelly powdered and chocolate sprinkled and honey buns, beckoning you around 10 when the freshbaked smell wafts onto Brock Street and trickles down Main Street. You cannot call yourself an Uxbridgian until you have had a doughnut from Bredin’s. Absolutely scrumptious with a hot cup of tea or coffee as a mid morning treat. 80 cents$1.05 at Bredin’s Bakery
Fireside warmth
You know when the product page is ringed in gold that you’re getting something luxurious. The Starfire GD70 direct vent gas fireplace’s 35,000 BTU burner provides cozy heat and a yellow dancing flame, with 682 square inch viewing area. We love the handheld modulating thermostatic remote control, and the available cast iron surrounds (porcelain majolica brown, perhaps?). $3,000+ at Firebridge Fireplaces
Glovits? Mitoves? They’re hybrids!
Half mitten, half glove, these soft hybrid hand covers promise warmth without bulk with insulated microfibre insides, leather outsides. Slip your hands inside the mitten casing and feel your fingers slide into glove holes. What a neat idea. Kinda like a turducken, but for your hands. $40 at Woods and Woods
Lights down, heat up for a great workout
Old school tobogganing Canadianmade from maple wood, this is the authentic wooden toboggan from your childhood. Six feet long, it can easily hold multiple children, and at least two adults (we recommend the hill at the arena, and Hy Hope Farm on Lakeridge Road). After decades, the classic design can’t be beat. And unlike plastic designs, this one will last and last. $74.99 at Canadian Tire
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By Kirsty Kernohan The rising tropical warmth is a great juxtaposition to the frigid temperatures outside. I am nervously perched on my yoga mat waiting for the class to start; I have not done any yoga in three years since I was pregnant with my daughter. Hot power yoga is a vigorous and empowering class practiced in a room heated to 30 degrees to increase detoxification and depth. It certainly did that for me. Any nervousness is completely gone as the teacher tells me to take it at my own pace, that the moves are about me and my level of comfort. As we started the 90minute class, I felt calm, serene and the worries of the day melted away. I left feeling really good about my accomplishment; I didn't get every pose on the first try, but my teacher provided correction. It was a great workout for my mind and body – and the neck massage at the end was the best! I was comfortably sweaty during the class, and never felt like I was overexerting myself – you don’t have to be the world’s best yoga student to take this class, which I really liked. It’s not about what everybody else in the class can do, but about your level. I am now happily adding yoga to my life a few times a week to help stay healthy, happy and grounded. Namaste. $16 at Balanced Life Yoga
By Carly Foster
Who: Tim Southern
What: Uxbridge Township works employee for 14 years. In winter, he drives a snowplow, in summer, a backhoe. Nonwinter road maintenance projects include culvert replacement and patrol, repaving and pothole filling, cutting grass and trees, sign repair and street sweeping Where: His dedicated snowplow route is around Goodwood. Each driver has a specific area they maintain – this is so they are familiar with “hidden obstacles” such as fire hydrants, mailboxes and electrical boxes that easily get buried in the snow. The “unwritten law” is if you have to do someone else’s route, you don’t plow outside their wing mark, or defined path By the numbers: 13 employees keep the 320 km of Township roads clear during winter. Last year the Township spent almost $1 million doing this, including spreading approximately 18,000 tonnes of salt/sand mix on the roads worth $290,000. The 13truck fleet consists of 6 country plows, 3 town plows, 2 graders, 1 loader and 1 sidewalk clearer. The big brown dome at the works depot lot at 519 Durham Rd. 8 holds 5,000 tonnes of salt/sand Why snowplowing?: Timing, really. Southern started driving big trucks when he was 18, working for his uncle’s construction/excavating business. When it was shutting down, the Township was hiring What’s your favourite part of the job?: The early mornings watching the sun come up and the wildlife – especially deer and coyotes – on the country roads. Southern says, “It’s like watching the day come alive.” Once traffic starts, “the fun ends,” he laughs
Biggest challenge?: Parked cars. Garbage and recycle bins put too far out the end of driveways. Road rage. “The most important thing is keeping the roads safe. Just remember that when I’m plowing past your driveway, someone is driving past mine, filling it up, too.” Family: Lives in Sunderland with his wife and children. Proud father to two girls and a stepdaughter, plus two grandchildren Advice for drivers and Uxbridge residents: “Be nice to your plow drivers, and we’ll be nice to you.”
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Friday, January 1
New Year's Day Levee 11 a.m. Mayor and Council invite residents for a meet andgreet at the Township municipal office. All ages welcome. Light refreshments served. 9058529181 Saturday, January 2
Hike The Oak Ridges Trail Association hosts a 1.5 hr., 3.5 km moderate pace hike or snowshoe on the Al Shaw side trail. Stay for breakfast after. Trail entrance on west side of Con. 6, south of Hwy. 21. Joan Taylor 9054772161 Sunday, January 3
Music Festival 10 a.m. Music, poetry, storytelling, dance and more at Reachview Village. We always welcome new talent! Jo 9058526487 Wednesday, January 6
Uxperience Meeting 7:15 p.m. First meeting for the 2010 variety show in the Uxbridge Secondary School drama room. If you enjoy singing, dancing or acting, please join us. No auditioning required. $50 annual fee. www.uxperience.ca 9058521836 Thursday, January 7
Eat Well and Be Fit! 9:3011 a.m. Free health talk on eating well and being fit. Come learn about the fitness effect and how you can get on the path to better health in 90 days! Call Nicole to confirm your spot. 4164275080
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Free Computer Training 9:30 a.m.4:30p.m. Intro to Word 2003. To register call 1800408 9619 or online at www.dce.ca. Each citizen in Durham Region is entitled to 2 free computer courses. Uxbridge Library 9058529747 www.uxlib.com Saturday, January 9
Page Turners 1:15– 2:30 p.m. Reading Three Day Road by Joseph Boyden. Everyone welcome and spots available for new members. Refreshments provided. Uxbridge Library 9058529747 ext. 24 www.uxlib.com Monday, January 11
Yoga with Jill 78 p.m. Enjoy a peaceful end to the day with a gentle, hathabased, vinyasa flowstyle yoga practice. Whether a beginner or experienced in yoga, you can practice at your own pace. $140 (10 weeks) www.bodydesign.ca 9054733888
Tuesday, January 12 Mother Goose Read With Me Registration 9:30 a.m. Registration day for Uxbridge Township residents. This free, popular program starts on February 2, 2010 for four weeks. Introduces babies (birth12 months) to the world of books, rhymes and songs with an early literacy specialist. Uxbridge Library 9058529747 www.uxlib.com Thursday, January 14
Gentle Fit 6:457:45 p.m. This class will focus on building strong muscles and bones. Regular exercise has shown to improve energy levels and help prevent chronic health problems. Have fun working at your own pace in this supportive and encouraging class. www.bodydesign.ca 9054733888
Saturday, January 16
CPR & First Aid Training 9 a.m. All aspects of first aid and CPR are covered, including spinal injuries, medical/legal issues, heat/cold injuries, burns, abdominal and chest injuries. Includes CPR C certification and introduction to the use of defibrillators. Recognized by the WSIB. $98 Uxpool 9058527831 pool@town.uxbridge.on.ca Free Computer Training 9:30 a.m. Intro to Excel 2003. See January 7 for details
Carlos Del Junco In Concert 8 p.m. Since his first unforgettable performance at Greenbank more than ten years ago, Carlos Del Junco has become one of Greenbank Folk Music Society's favourite blues performers. You won't want to miss this master of the harmonica. $20. http://www.globalserve.net/~ynot/grnbnk.htm 9058525019 Sunday, January 17
Standard First Aid Recertification 9 a.m. $72 Uxpool 9058527831 pool@town.uxbridge.on.ca Raise Your Vibration, Improve Your Health 15 p.m. This informative and interactive halfday workshop at the Uxbridge Natural Healing Centre provides a foundation for understanding the laws of vibration and how to raise your vibration to reduce stress, repel disease and cultivate inner peace. 9057670400 www.dawnjames.org
Jeremy & Julia 6 p.m. Join chef Jeremy Buckingham as he creates a meal for you straight from Julia Child's “Mastering the Art of French Cooking.” $55/person includes copy of "Julia's Kitchen Wisdom". Screening of Julia herself demonstrating technique. Tickets available at Harlow’s Wine Bar and Grille and Blue Heron Books. 9058524282 Tuesday, January 19
9 Simple Steps to a Healthier Diet 9:3011 a.m. Free health talk. Learn simple ways to impact your family’s diet and health from a registered holistic nutritionist. Nicole 4164275080 Thursday, January 21
Movies, Martinis and Manicures This ladiesonly event raises funds for the Uxbridge Cottage Hospital each year. This 6th annual event’s theme is Dirty Dancing. Food, beverages, spa treatments and giggles guaranteed. $75. www.roxytheatres.com 4169896963 Friday, January 22
P.A. Day Activities Uxbridge Library 9058529747 www.uxlib.com Uxbridge Skating Club 2010 Invitational Competition 9 a.m.9 p.m. This Skate Canada sanctioned, 3day, action packed event will welcome hundreds of skaters from Eastern and Central Ontario Section to compete for medals in freeskate, dance and interpretive events. www.uxbridgeskatingclub.com
Saturday, January 23
Free Computer Training 9:30 a.m. Intro to Power Point. See January 7 for details Sunday, January 24
Jeremy & Julia 6 p.m. See January 17 for details Tuesday, January 26
Zephyr Page Turners 2:15 p.m. We will be reading The Book of Negroes by Lawrence Hill. Everyone welcome. Refreshments provided. Zephyr Library 9054732375 www.uxlib.com Thursday, January 28 Movies, Martinis and Manicures See January 21 for details Saturday, January 30
Roxy Art Film Club 4 p.m Interested film buffs gather to enjoy the screening of alternative, or notquitemainstream films. Selected movie TBA. www.roxytheatres.com cathy.christoff@roxytheatres.com Sunday, January 31 Roxy Art Film Club 4 p.m See January 30 for details.
Regular Events
Anne of Green Gables, The Musical January 1423 The classic tale comes to life at the Uxbridge Music Hall, based on the book by Lucy Maud Montgomery. Purchase matinee and evening tickets online at www.onstageuxbridge.com 905 9040895. Family Play to Learn Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Thursdays 9:15–10:15 a.m., 10:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Dropin and registered play time and crafts. No fee. Call for information on various weekly Ontario Early Years Centre programming. Durham Farm and Rural Family Resources 905 8622750 ext. 310 www.durhamfamilyresources.org
Time for 2s and 3s 10 a.m. Stories, games and craft activities will be conducted by staff member Cathy Reesor. The program is intended for children in this age group accompanied by an adult. $8/child. Four classes on alternate Mondays and Wednesdays. Pre registration necessary. Uxbridge Library 9058529747 www.uxlib.com
OsteoFit Seniors Yoga 9 a.m. Each Wednesday, reverse the process of ageing in this gentle class that uses chairs to support the body while increasing range of motion, releasing tension and increasing relaxation. Also suitable for those with limited mobility & arthritis. Balanced Life Yoga www.balancedlifeyoga.ca 905 8522782 Musical Moments 10:15 a.m., 11 a.m. Starts Thursday, January 21 for eight weeks with Kathy ReidNaiman. Lots of toe tapping and knee slapping along with musical instruments, finger plays, and songs old and new. This popular class
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Short Mat Bowling 1:30 p.m. Every Thursday at the Uxbridge Senior’s Centre. Bowls provided. 9058622144
Euchre 7:30 p.m. All are welcome for a fun evening of cards and prizes every Friday. Royal Canadian Legion Uxbridge 9058525293
Karate 79 p.m. Every Monday and Wednesday. Please call for details. Zephyr Hall 9058525792
Udora Play Group 10 a.m.noon For moms and their kids ages 06. Come out and have some fun with your little one. Repeats each Tuesday and Thursday. Udora Community Centre Weekly Ladies Interdenominational Community Bible Study 1 p.m. Tuesdays at Uxbridge Baptist Church. All ages welcome. 9058522846
Indoor Walking Trail 68 p.m. From the Township trails committee comes a weekly indoor walking trail at Uxbridge Secondary School. Bring comfortable shoes. Cloak room available. All welcome. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. No running, walking poles or strollers. $10 onetime fee (no charge if under 18). Tuesdays until February 23, 2010. Sign up at Uxpool 9058527831
STAND 34 p.m. Come explore and respond to social injustice here and around the world at the Uxbridge Youth Centre. Free every Saturday. www.uxbridgeyouthcentre.com 9058623456
Family Yoga 12:15 p.m. Each Sunday this class is a relaxing way for members of your family to have fun together practicing yoga. We will discover and explore yoga through imaginative poses, breathing exercises, games, relaxation and visualization. Suitable for kids 411. Balanced Life Yoga www.balancedlifeyoga.ca 905852 2782 Do you have the guts to be beautiful? 10 a.m. Join us in this fourweek program starting January 9th and be inspired by a guest speaker on topics to feed the mind, body and soul. Book by Dr. Mita Ray, plantbased lunch, meal planning and more included. $399/person. www.uxbridgemanorandspa.com 9058522150
Yoga 9:30 a.m. Every Tuesday. Please call for details. Siloam Hall 9058527507
Meditation 79 p.m. Bring comfortable cushions. Admission by donation. Runs first and third Thursday each month. Siloam Hall 9058529975 Bingo 7:30 p.m. Great jackpots every Thursday. Royal Canadian Legion Uxbridge 9058525293 Salsa Babies 10:30 a.m. Starts Friday, January 15 for six weeks. With little ones snuggled into baby carriers, new moms learn popular Latin dances while babies shake maraca rattles and bounce along. A great workout and chance to socialize with other moms. $70. Sign up at Uxpool 9058527831
Swimming, squash and skating
Family swimming @ Uxpool Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10:3011:30 a.m. Friday 6:308:30 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday 12p.m., 7:308:30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday 13 p.m. Public squash courts MondayFriday 7 a.m.5 p.m. 10
For lane swimming, aqua fit and class times, plus weekend squash courts,call Uxpool at 9058527831 Public skating Wednesday 77:50 p.m. Thursday 3:154:35 p.m. Sunday 11:50 p.m.
Parent & tot skating Monday and Thursday 10:3011:50 a.m. Thursday 12:20 p.m.
For adult and ticket ice schedule, call Uxbridge arena at 9058526761
Uxbridge Town Talk reserves the right to edit for space. We are not responsible for errors or omissions. A submission does not guarantee printing in the magazine. We do publish every event in our online calendar at www.uxbridgetowntalk.com/eventlistings. Submit yours for FREE!! Email events to info@uxbridgetowntalk.com or mail to: Event listing P.O. Box 1035 Uxbridge, ON L9P 1N3
Top tips for smooth sailing (or flying, or driving) on your next family getaway!
Some find the term ‘family vacation’ to be an oxymoron – is it really a holiday if you’re still up at the crack of dawn? Or coping with a tantrum in the middle of a busy airport? Well, I can’t help much with your little one’s sleeping habits, but I can suggest five easy tips to a more harmonious holiday – from beginning to middle to end. If you adopt the Scouts’ motto of ‘be prepared’ – you truly will be.
Timing…
As they say, timing is everything – and that applies to every level of your getaway. From your journey's to and from, to how you plan your days, good timing can make all the difference. Try to arrange your flights (or drive times) based on two things – when your child is the most cheerful and when they are likely to sleep. Some moms swear by overnight flights, but others say first thing in the morning is the only time to go. You know your child best, so try to make arrangements accordingly.
While at your destination, try not to over schedule your days. If your child is still napping, don’t look at that as an inconvenience or being trapped in your room. Why don’t you take the opportunity to rest – hang out with a book on the balcony or luxuriate in a nap yourself… you’re on holiday!
Toiletries…
You’re no longer traveling light anyway, so why skimp on the things that keep you clean and comfortable along the way? Wipes, wipes and more wipes will never go to waste (even if your child is out of diapers). Great for taking care of sticky faces and fingers, they are great to have on hand to clean up spills.
Travelsize hand sanitizer, as well as moisturizer, toothpaste, mouthwash, and soap can come in handy. For your tot, don’t forget to bring Benadryl, acetaminophen, oral rehydration mix, and antibiotic ointment. Having these items in your carryon is a must. If your luggage gets lost or your child gets sick in the middle of the night, you won’t have the stress of finding a drugstore. All the liquid items in travelsizes should fit in a one litre size Ziplock, which is what airport security will allow through. If you’re driving instead of flying, try to have these items close at hand or at least where you can easily find them.
Toys…
Regardless of the age of your child, you must stock your bag with enough distractions to keep them busy for the duration of your journey. For babies this could mean little board books or soft toys with lots of ‘bits’ attached. For older kids, this could mean a portable game device or DVD player. New stuff will hold attention for longer, but you needn’t spend a fortune. Another trick is to stash away a few favourites for a month or so before your trip, and reintroduce along the way. Wrapping the toys can mean an extra few minutes of dedication as well.
Treats…
Things that your child normally only enjoys at parties or on special occasions can be brought out when necessary – after all, what is a vacation if not a special occasion? Can you tell that I’m justifying giving my daughter chips and cookies to keep her quiet on our last flight?
Temperament…
This ‘T’ may be last but it certainly isn’t least, and it applies to both you and your child. It means you’ll have to schedule and plan according to your child’s temperament, and you’ll also have to keep yours in check. If your 3yearold is introverted, or easily overstimulated, perhaps save Mickey Mouse for next year. If the guy at the checkin counter gives you a hard time, or your flight is delayed, stressing out about it or losing your cool doesn’t help anyone – least of all your child. Traveling can fray your nerves; people are rude, flights get delayed, luggage gets lost, and drinks get spilled. If you’re organized AND mentally prepared to chill out and go with the flow, your child(ren) will follow your cues – or at least you’ll be ready to cope when they don’t! Let’s face it, your life has changed dramatically since you had kids – why would the way you travel stay the same? Vacations give you the opportunity to explore together, and reconnect as a family away from the busyness of your daily lives. Whether it’s two weeks in a tropical destination or a night away in a country inn, getting away from it all does everybody good!
Corinne McDermott is the mama of two and founder of Have Baby Will Travel (www.havebabywilltravel.com) your online destination for hotel reviews, trip reports, destination information, useful articles, travel tips and packing lists, all geared to those traveling with babies and small children.
Fun on a Winter's Day
A favourite activity at our house that keeps my toddler and preschooler happy — for a while — is sensory play. We have a great plastic table that we use for such things as sand, water, bubbles, and even snow Bring some snow inside and play with it in the table, and watch it melt. A great way to spend some time, as well as learning! If you don’t have a sensory table, you could use bowls. Don’t forget to supervise the little ones, especially around water.
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Make true, longlasting lifestyle changes Almost 10 years ago, Kim Mortson was turning 40 and weighed 210 lbs. She was not happy. “I couldn’t get up the stairs without being out of breath,” she said. “I knew I had to do something, as I did not want to go into the next 40 years of my life looking and feeling the way that I did.” Mortson made a lifestyle change by making better food choices and exercising – the classic combination that eludes so many and makes them vulnerable to weightloss gimmicks. “There is no secret,” she said. “There’s no quick fix. So many people today are looking for that. It didn’t take you two months to get you where you are. The slow, consistent approach is going to produce the longestlasting results.” Mortson is living proof of this. She lost 60 lbs. and has maintained it for almost a decade. So inspired by her own success, Mortson gave up a career in the nonprofit sector and is now a certified personal trainer, nutrition and wellness specialist, older adult fitness protrainer and certified cancer exercise specialist. As owner of Body Design, she offers personal training, nutrition and lifestyle coaching, fitness classes and corporate wellness programs. Mortson’s clients celebrate their successes each day, including: ·losing weight and gaining strength ·feeling better with more energy ·doing everyday tasks with less effort
·sleeping more soundly ·improved stress management ·going off medications ·vivaciousness and zest for life
“A lot of people are very self conscious and feel intimidated in a gym setting,” Mortson says. “In our studio, they do not have to worry about what they look like or compare themselves to anyone else.” And most programs either offer just exercise, or just food guidance. Body Design incorporates both nutrition and fitness to help clients make true, longlasting lifestyle changes and reach their goals. “We assist with healthy lifestyle habits – good eating and regular, safe, effective exercise – that you can build into your everyday life and continue for the rest of your life. We set goals each week and hold you accountable to them for your next appointment – thus encouraging real change.” “It’s commitment, it’s hard work, it’s staying focused,” she added. “It’s also being kind to yourself. Setbacks happen. The objective is to learn strategies on how to manage those setbacks, and get back on track. We’re here to help.” Body Design also offers fitness classes in Uxbridge starting early January. For more information, contact Kim at 9054733888 or www.bodydesign.ca.
Focus on your mental and emotional wellbeing in 2010
Angela Horne is now practicing at the Uxbridge Natural Healing Centre
New in 2010: Drumming meditations, reaching your highest self introductory classes, munayki rites and learning the ways of the shaman
Ever wondered how to rid yourself of those nasty, troublemaking monsters that exist in your psyche? The ones that do not have your best interests in mind, which you’d love to politely yet firmly ask to leave? One of Angela Horne’s clients did. “The initial heavy hitters in my case were the martyr, false light and the drama queen,” the client said. “Once discovered then released, I experienced an internal shift, a short processing period, then almost immediately doors started opening to support the direction of my desired changes.” As a trained intuitive councilor and metaphysical specialist, Horne is a teacher and channeler, practicing the ways of the shaman, Munayki Rites, past life regression, future projections, selfhealing hypnosis therapy, life coaching and more. Angela Horne Studio opened in 2007 with handmade jewelry and local artists’ work. But not long after opening, customers started to book appointments for Horne’s true calling and life’s training: The art of healing. “The greatest reward is watching the amazing
transformation in people’s lives and the lives around them,” she said. “As they change their ways and thoughts internally and with intention, the rest of the world changes around them and with them. Clients come with trust and faith that working together makes room for improvement – one miracle at a time.” Horne began her journey into healing 25 years ago after a friend invited her to a tarot card workshop to learn how to not only read cards, but to read people. She has trained with teachers and masters from around the world. Her goal is to help people move past the internal drama, fears and traumas endured in this life and others. “The success is to get to the core issues, and get out there and live life and enjoy the journey,” Horne said. “Clients have transformed their life in threefive sessions, once we peel back the layers and hit the issues.” Angela Horne has recently moved her studio to the Uxbridge Natural Healing Centre at 106 Main St. N., #11. To book an appointment, call the centre at 9058527969 or her directly at 9058522601. Phone consultations and gift certificates available.
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Classic Canadian Cuisine: Harlow's Wine Bar & Grille
by Carly Foster & Kirsty Kernohan
Most of our meal is spent fighting over the sweet potato fries. We are here for lunch on an overcast Tuesday. It’s quiet inside Harlow’s, and we snag one of the coveted window tables. Our meal starts with Caesar salad – Kirsty’s favourite, with a whole slice of crispy bacon resting on top – and chicken noodle soup. The broth is rich, and the toasted orzo adds an unexpected nutty flavour. George Browntrained Chef Jeremy Buckingham says he uses no powder bases or chemicals in his cooking, crafting all sauces and dips from scratch. A homemade hamburger arrives on owner James Harlow’s recommendation. It was served classically with lettuce, onion, tomato, dill pickle and aged cheddar (requested), with a toasted bun. But the sweet potato fries were the star of the plate. Served with a Cajun dipping sauce, we gobbled them up. Fish and chips come next, laid out on faux newsprint paper with peas, spicy house fries, ketchup and homemade tartar sauce. The
sauce’s savoury tang – instead of the expected sweet, from sweet pickles or relish – was surprising. Some may love the twist, but we missed the customary flavour. Dessert was yin and yang: The broughtin caramel crunch chocolate cake was heavenly – smooth, velvety and very chocolately. But the crème brulee’s slightly runnierthan we’reusedto custard was filled with warm and cold spots, which confused us. The flavour, however, was excellent. Harlow says the restaurant’s philosophy is casual dining, “but a cut above everyone else.” The menu is small so items can be done well, and changed easily. Look for an upscale Sunday brunch in 2010, plus new additions to the menu including beef tenderloin, chicken Kiev and classic shrimp cocktail. For information on live music lineups, upcoming events and more, visit www.harlowswinebarandgrille.com. _____________ Editorial Note:Meals are provided at no charge, but the opinions expressed are those of the authors. Any accompanying advertisements are purchased separately by the restaurant.
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From My Mom's Kitchen My late mother was a chef at a daycare and in 1999 they published out a cookbook. There are are two of my favourite recipes from it. ~Kirsty
Broccoli Soup Ingredients:
2 tsp olive oil 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped (about 3/4 cup) 1 stalk celery, finely chopped 4 cups fresh broccoli, including stems, chopped 2 cups lowsodium, fatfree chicken or vegetable broth 1 1/2 cups nonfat milk
Tea Biscuits Ingredients
2 cups all purpose flour 4 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 4 tbsp margarine or butter 1 cup milk
Preparation: Heat oil on medium heat in a soup pot. Sauté onion and celery for 34 minutes, until onion is softened. Add chopped broccoli, followed by the broth and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes, until vegetables are tender. Allow soup to cool slightly, then transfer to a blender in 23 batches, and blend until smooth. Return soup to pot and heat gently until ready to serve.
Preparation: In a large bowl mix all ingredients together. Roll out on a floured board to approximately 1/2 inch thick. Cut out dough with a cookie cutter. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet for 1215 minutes at 350 F until light brown. For added treat add 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese.
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Five tips to a healthier you in 2010
·Moderation doesn't mean giving up foods you love, it only means having a smaller amount less often
·Weekly meal plans help you get organized, cut down
on trips to the store, and reduce reliance on takeout
·Strict weight control diets don't work in the long run. Most people who lose weight this way typically gain it
back along with a few extra pounds. Instead of dieting, adopt longlasting healthy habits such as eating well and keeping active
·Make small and gradual changes to your eating and activity habits. Pick one change and stick with it for
several weeks before adding a new one. Small steps
work better than giant leaps to improve healthy living habits for the long term
·Work up to 60 minutes of activity each day: Two 10
minute walks, 20 minutes of yard work, and 20 minutes of stretching, cycling, skating, or dancing. It all adds up and every little bit counts!
SOURCE: The Dieticians of Canada at www.dieticians.ca
How to be active with confidence this winter: Tips for seniors 1) Modify canes with metal grips on the bottom for additional stability on slippery ice and snow 2) Layer clothing to preserve body heat 3) Avoid cotton next to the skin, which absorbs moisture and stays wet 4) Use a wellsecured floor mat by the entrance door to catch any falling snow or ice from shoes and clothing 5) Wipe all puddles immediately indoors to prevent falls 6) Keep extra supplies of medication, food and pet items in case of severe weather and storms 7) Exercise regularly to maintain muscle strength, coordination and balance 8) Get the right footwear: Comfortable boots with a wide, low heel and antislip soles will help you navigate icy streets 9) Lubricate your skin regularly with extramoisturizing, nongreasy, unscented lotions to help combat the drying effects of cold weather 10) Avoid hot water, which will exacerbate dry, cracked skin 11) Water intake should not reduce in the winter months. Drink at least 5 8 glasses/day to keep hydrated 12) Check your lighting: Make sure there are no great contrasts from one room to another, as seniors have difficulty adjusting to light changes; high contrasts increase the risk of slips and falls