WestCoast Families March 2011

THE Local Guide for Active Urban Families March 2011

FREE

It’s Our

Health & Fitness Issue!

Spring Break Fun for Everyone!

Are You a Bad Hockey Parent?

The Health Benefits of Friendship

March 2011

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Reading • Math • Writing • Study Skills

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March 2011

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FREE

THE Local Guide for Active Urban Families March 2011

March 2011

It’s Our

Health & Fitness Issue!

Top Story

Spring Break Fun for Everyone!

Are You a Bad Hockey Parent?

It’s our annual Health & Fitness Issue!

The Health Benefits of Friendship

March 2011

1

On Our Cover

Sisters Siena, 10, and Juno, two, are ready for spring fun!

Photographed by Bopomo Pictures. www.bopomo.ca

From the Editor 8 8 10 13 28 29

Editor’s Note Your Thoughts Contests WCF News Where to Find Us Community Calendar

25 25

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WCM Profile Singer/Pianist Laila Biali WCM Feature The Health Benefits of Friendship WCM Events

Read up on the ABCs of fitness, eating to starve cancer and more!

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Features

Health and Fitness 18 You Can Eat to Starve Cancer 20 10 Ways to Ensure Your Child Has a Great Body Image 21 The ABCs of Lifelong Health 22 Spring Break Fun for Everyone!

Columns 12 14 16 18 24 30

WestCoast Finds Help Me Sara! Tweens and Cell Phones Parenting Are You a Bad Hockey Parent?

In the Kitchen Travel Kid Crazy in Parksville Last Look Emily Carr: Charcoal Trees

In Our Next Issue Sign Up for Our Email Blast And get Exclusive Access to Online Contests Latest Finds & Deals Special Offers Event Listings …and much more!

April Our Annual GREEN Issue Camp Guide, Part 1: Sleepover and Family Camps

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WestCoast Mom: Money

March 2011

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“Health is a state of complete harmony of the body, mind and spirit. When one is free from physical disabilities and mental distractions, the gates of the soul open.” ~ B.K.S. Iyengar, yoga guru (1918 – present)

T

his month we focus on health and fitness, not just for kids, but for ourselves. We have a new parenting column (Help Me Sara! p.14) and information on great spring break activities for young and old (p.22). We also interview singer and pianist Laila Biali in WCM and look at what makes friendship so darn healthy for women. As for me, my own health and fitness “issue” came to the fore when I was planning out this issue several months ago.

It was late evening, my daughter was sound asleep, and I was (as usual) catching up on work and household chores. This night, I was suddenly too tired to answer emails, plan the next week’s dinners, or wash up the few leftover dishes in the sink. I just couldn’t do any of it. Instead, I went to bed and—the next day being a Saturday—turned off the alarm. My daughter woke in the morning, dressed herself, ate a banana and began watching cartoons. I slept. And I slept. And I slept. I didn’t wake up until after nine, an unheard-of happening. And I was still tired. In fact, the fatigue only grew worse over the next week, and it seemed the more I slept, the less energy I had. After two weeks, I realized something was very wrong.

Visits to the doctor and some test results showed that, for the most part, my body—on paper at least—was working normally. Blood pressure, cholesterol, etc., were all within normal ranges, even leaning towards the low side. My weight, on the other hand, was far from normal.

Now, I’ve never been a “skinny-Minnie,” but I had deluded myself into thinking that the frequent walking and hiking, and (relatively) healthy eating patterns were good enough. They weren’t. I had reached my mid-thirties, and, in the words of my doctor, my body was tired of being tired. It just couldn’t stand the strain anymore.

The reality of standing on the scale for the first time in over two years was more than a little shocking. I quickly calculated that if I split myself in half, there would be enough for two small people. Skinny, undernourished

Photographed by eclipseph otography.ca

editor’s note

people, but still. It was both devastating and empowering at the same time. Devastating, obviously, because no one likes to admit they are clinically obese, and empowering because it is only when you accept something that you can change it.

In the past, I had joined gyms, exercised like a fiend, lost 10 pounds in eight days, and collapsed after the second week. If the definition of insanity was doing the same thing over, and expecting a different result, then I wanted to prove that I was, this time, eminently sane.

I came to the conclusion that I was a turtle rather than a hare. One step at a time. I also decided to start those steps after the holidays, as I wasn’t crazy enough to believe that my will power would be proof against the culinary onslaught that was coming.

I eventually realized that as long as I didn’t feel deprived, I could stick to almost anything. Put me on a restrictive diet, however, and I would crave potato chips (and I hate potato chips). I began to focus on eating more, rather than less—more vegetables, more lean protein, more whole grains. And instead of turning purple doing high-intensity aerobics seven days a week, I now walk, a little more and a little faster each week. The immediate result was that I felt less tired, and over the past month, despite catching a nasty virus, I began to feel stronger, happier and calmer.

What works—so far—for me, may not work for someone else, but I know that if we don’t individually figure ourselves out, we lose more than just our skinny jeans. I hope this issue inspires and helps you find your own path to health.

See you next month,

13988 Maycrest Way, Suite 140, 2nd Floor Richmond, BC V6V 3C3 Tel: 604.249.2866 Fax: 604.247.1331 westcoastfamilies.com info@westcoastfamilies.com ­ ublisher P Andrea Vance publisher@westcoastfamilies.com Managing Editor Anya Levykh editor@westcoastfamilies.com Art Director & Layout Krysta Furioso studio@westcoastfamilies.com Accounts Receivable & Bookkeeping Jennifer Brulé finance@westcoastfamilies.com Administration / Editorial Assistant Jennifer Bruyns admin@westcoastfamilies.com Advertising Inquiries sales@westcoastfamilies.com 604-249-2866 For distribution inquiries, please contact: Jennifer Bruyns Contributors: Cassandra Anderton, Bopomo Pictures, Jennifer Bruyns, Debbie Bowman, Sara Dimerman, Amy Fardell, Wendy Helfenbaum, Michele Kambolis, Edith Maybin Photography, Shari Pratt, Andrea Undseth, Kari-Ellen Walcer.

WestCoast Families (WCF) is an independent, regional parenting publication. As the Lower Mainland’s prime resource for happy, healthy & active families, WCF provides informative and relevant content.

All contents copyrighted ©. Written permission from the publisher is required to reproduce, quote, reprint or copy any material from WestCoast Families.

PUBLICATIONS MAIL 40027247 Published nine times per year in British Columbia, Canada. Total circulation: 50,000

your thoughts I’d like to thank you for having the magazine as a free publication. Although I do read the articles, I most enjoy seeing the calendar of events, and local advertizing. Keep up the good job!

Karen C.

Thanks for the article on collaborative divorce [Families and Divorce, January/February]. I am in the process of seeking divorce, and your article had many useful points and suggestions. Much appreciated.

Jennifer R.

Got anything to say, rant about or praise? We want to hear it all!

Email editor@westcoastfamilies.com with your comments, questions and suggestions, and be entered to win monthly prizes!

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For queries about editorial submissions, please view the contributor guidelines on our website.

To submit a community calendar event or share your feedback, please email info@westcoastfamilies.com.

WestCoast Families is proud to have been selected as a mom-friendly employer for the 2010 Progressive Employers of Canada List. And congratulations to our fellow inductees!

March 2011

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contests

Enter to win any of these great prizes online at www.westcoastfamilies.com!

WIN! The Opus SCOUT Bike (Value $256)

WIN! A Family Prize Pack to Explore the New Amazon at the Vancouver Aquarium (Value $150)

Canadian company Opus Bikes have long been known for their outstanding racing and mountain bikes. But they also have an extensive children’s line which is designed to keep kids safe while offering unparalleled control while riding. The all-aluminum frames make for lighter bikes that are easier to handle and quicker to start and stop. All bikes are built with pedal and hand brakes, giving kids the same powerful control while riding as grown-ups have. And the headsets are built to prevent handlebars and forks from spinning freely, resulting in even greater control and no jack knifing. See the whole line at www.opusbikes.com. WIN! The Opus Scout bike for 5 to 8 year olds.

From March 19 until April 30, the Graham Amazon Gallery at the Vancouver Aquarium will be transformed to include surprising new creatures and experiences from the most species-rich area of the world. Perhaps the most adorable is the Goeldi’s Monkey. New to the Vancouver Aquarium, the small size of this primate allows it to move with agility through thick forests, and to stalk and pounce on insects, frogs or lizards.

For those explorers young at heart, the Aquarium’s 4-D/FX theatre will showcase Dora & Diego’s 4D Adventure using 3-D imagery, sensory seats and loads of in-theatre 4-D special effects. It’s a fascinating bounty of birds, snakes, insects and aquatic life sure to engage and enchant explorers of any age. Welcome to the jungle! Please see website for ongoing Amazon programming details and schedules. www.visitvanaqua.org WIN! A family prize pack including four admission tickets and special Amazon gift package.

Deadline to Enter: March 31, 2011

Deadline to Enter: March 14, 2011

WIN! Pure & Co’s Handknit Signature Wrap and Neon Buddha Pants (Value $200) Pure & Co. brings together two forward-thinking fashion collections: Pure HANDKNIT and Neon Buddha.

Since its debut collection in 1998, Pure HANDKNIT knitwear collection is handcrafted of 100% cotton by 4,500 women knitters in Thailand, thereby affording them opportunities to better their way of life. The Neon Buddha line is a lifestyle clothing collection for travel, home, work, yoga and the discerning active customer. Canadian designed with a conscience, sustainable practices are incorporated into the collection.

The Pure & Co. team in Thailand works western schedules, earns top of the industry wages, are supplied health care benefits, continuing education, English classes for their family and friends, full maternity benefits and room for advancement as the company grows to become a global brand. In addition, the company donates 1% of every piece sold to local and international charities. www.pureandco.com WIN! The Pure Handknit Signature Wrap (one size fits all) and Neon Buddha Pants, available in sizes XS (2-4), S (6-8), M (10-12), L (14-16) and XL (16-18).

Deadline to Enter: March 31, 2011

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March 2011

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westcoast finds

It’s all about fashion and accessories…indoors and out!

Peekaboo Beans Active Wear For the active boy and girl, Peekaboo Beans has great items like their girls’ Imagine skeggings ($42), which feature capri leggings with attached skirts and boys’ Beginning to End jacket ($52), with detachable sleeves for all those varied spring days. Available online and at local children’s stores.

www.peekaboobeans.com

Joseph Ribkoff Spring Collection Who said active can’t be sexy? Canadian designer Joseph Ribkoff creates pieces for women on the go that are fun, flirty and easy to move in. Various prices. At Aldila Boutiques across the Lower Mainland. www.ribkoff.com

Agoo Tushie Huggers Perfect for infants and toddlers on the go, these trendy knit leggings for boys and girls are attached to either skirts or shorts for 2-in-1 practicality and fun, and come in a multitude of styles. Made from cotton yarn, in sizes 0-12 months, 12-24 months and 24-36 months. SRP $29.99 online or at local children’s stores.

www.tushiehuggers.com

Suunto M Series Watches These sturdy watches are ideal for those looking to get fit, lose weight or receive personal training. With dual heart rate monitor, built in fitness test, daily exercise instructions, adaptive exercise programs for up to seven days, real-time intensity guidance, speed and distance trackers, and the ability to upload all your fitness data to movescount.com, this might be the most advanced sports watch ever. SRP $200 at Mountain Equipment Co-op. www.suunto.com

Ayala Moriel Body Line

Aly Dahl Designs Vancouver-based designer and mom Alyson Johnson was recently invited to showcase her work in Hollywood at the pre-Oscar events. Her jewellery, made from sterling silver, fine silver, gold, copper and brass, and studded with gemstones and antique beads from around the world, is the perfect way to carry those little finger- and toe-prints with you forever. Various prices. www.alydahl.com

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After a good workout, there is nothing better than a soothing body treatment. Vancouver parfumier Ayala Moriel has just released her new collection of all-natural body products, including oils, bath salts and sugar scrubs. Guilt sugar scrub ($52) is a combination of orange blossoms and chocolate. Or try to the rose and saffron Song of Songs ($25), a moisturizer free of preservatives and made from non-greasy oils. Put directly on the skin or pour a few drops into the bath.

www.ayalamoriel.com

wcf news

The latest fitness programs for kids and parents!

Hitting the Bar Takes on New Meaning What started as a method favoured by Hollywood celebrities has now arrived in Vancouver’s Yaletown. Ideal for busy moms with hectic schedules, workout beginners, those returning to exercise after an extended break, or moms-to-be, these low-impact exercises use a combination of yoga, Pilates and ballet. www.barmethod.com

Le Petit Tennis Le Petit Tennis is a new and fast growing method of teaching children between the ages of 3 and 6 how to play tennis through storytelling. The program, which has been used in Europe for several years, delivers story based lessons that take kids to a “magical” world, captures their attention and teaches them basic techniques of the sport. “Because young children have a limited attention span, it is difficult for them to focus and learn all techniques,” says Uros Budimac, Tennis Director at Hollyburn Country Club. “Le Petit Tennis gives them a story they can relate to which has proven to increase attention span and retention.” The program includes a nine-month progressive lesson plan using a mixture of visual components and stories to educate children using a language they understand rather than technical tennis terms. Equipment is customized to the program, with smaller racquets and lighter balls used.

www.hollyburn.org | www.lepetittennis.com

Hockey H.E.R.O.S. The Hockey Education Reaching Out Society is a free program that gives girls and boys in economically disadvantaged neighbourhoods the chance to learn the game. The program’s goals are to empower children through hockey and offer support for selfesteem building and life skills training. The program has now launched in cities across the country, including Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.

For more info, visit www.heroshockey.com.

March 2011

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help me sara!

Tweens and Cell Phones

By Sara Dimerman

I

’ve been told by Chloe that right now I’m the meanest mother in the whole world. Despite denying her perpetual pleas, I’m sure that she was convinced that I would give in and buy her the cell phone that was on the top of her Chanukah wish list. But I didn’t. Since that time, in an effort to convince me that a cell phone is one of the mandatory electronic devices for any tween, she has provided me with a list of all of her eleven-year-old friends who already have cell phones (and there are many), as well as “The top reasons I need a phone.”

Below are Chloe’s top reasons for needing a phone and my response to each of these.

“If I want to play with someone after school I don’t have to wait to ask you.”

My response: Whatever happened to delayed gratification? To waiting for mom to pick you up after school to request a play date? I know you’re used to “Googling” questions and getting answers within seconds, but not every question receives an immediate response and sometimes waiting for something makes it even more meaningful.

“I can walk home feeling safe.”

My response: Since you’re not yet walking home on your own, why do you need a cell phone as protection? And even when you are walking home alone or

with a friend, please remember that a cell phone is not going to keep you safe.

Cell phones cannot replace knowing what to do when you are approached by a stranger or in any potentially dangerous situation. It doesn’t take more than a few seconds for a stranger to grab a cell phone out of your hand and if you’re counting on a cell phone to keep you safe, then you may have a false sense of security and not be working on developing important safety proofing skills.

“Sometimes I don’t feel included when my friends are on their phones.

I need one too.”

My response: I know that you may feel excluded when you see one friend texting or calling another to arrange a play date or just to chat, but that doesn’t seem like a good enough reason to have a cell phone yourself. There are so many other ways to feel included. Perhaps you can tell your friends how it feels when they spend time on their cell phones when you are together and ask that they focus their attention on you and your activity instead.

“It can be very fun and I’ll be happy.”

My response: I understand how cell phones can seem like fun, but they are not toys. They need to be handled responsibly and spending too much time on a cell phone can even be dangerous to your health. Of course I want you to be happy, but it would make me sad to think that a cell phone is what it would take to make you happy.

“If I’m really bored I can talk to my friends.”

My response: “Talk” is an interesting choice of word since texting is not really talking. My fear is that you may “lose your voice” (or ability to converse comfortably or spontaneously) if you only talk through text. If you’re really bored, let’s think about the many things that you can do to occupy yourself, in addition to talking to your friends.

“I can stay in touch with family—especially my mom!”

My response: Do I detect an ounce of manipulation? Of course I want you to stay in touch, but at eleven years of age, when are you ever so far out of reach!?

Cell phone companies are increasingly targeting their marketing towards children as young as ten and eleven years old and parents are increasingly being pressured to give in.

No doubt Chloe will have a cell phone at a younger age than her older sister was given hers, but it won’t be because her friends have one, because she needs it to feel safe, because she’s bored or needs it to be happy. She will get one when the time is right and when she does, I will no longer be the meanest mother in the whole world. I will be lavished with hugs and kisses and told that I am the best—for that day, anyway!

Sara Dimerman is a board-certified psychologist and provides counselling to individuals, couples and families. She is the author of two parenting books, Am I A Normal Parent? and Character Is the Key, and is one of North America’s leading parenting experts.

Find out more at www.helpmesara.com.

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March 2011

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parenting

Are You a Bad Hockey Parent?

How to keep your child’s love of the sport intact without turning into a crazed lunatic

By Wendy Helfenbaum Wandering into the used hockey gear sale at my local arena with my five-year-old newbie player, I could already spot them: the Bad Hockey Parents. You know the ones. They’re overly passionate, they’re loud, and they’re more than a tad obnoxious.

“Here, try on this helmet, son.”

“Owww! It’s too tight, Dad.” “Come on, toughen up! Coaches don’t like whiners; they like winners.”

“It’s squishing my head.”

“Good! That’ll help you focus! Give you that edge!”

Did I mention that the boy with the squished head was six?

I wanted to run in the other direction, and convince my little super-skater to take up another sport this year. Like yoga. That way, my weekends would be free of yahoo parents screaming in my ear whenever their child touched the puck. But my son worships the ice, so I sought out Bad Hockey Parent (BHP) experts for tips on how to avoid turning into one myself.

Hard-core Hockey “Hockey is not a sport for the faint of heart parent or player,” says Scott Gerla, a hockey dad and coach. “It’s demanding, it’s competitive and the financial and time commitments are huge. Some adults seem to want a return on this investment, and instead of realizing that it comes in the form of learning life skills such as discipline, teamwork and respect, they push for goals, assists, and making the top team.”

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It’s normal for parents to become passionate about whatever their children do, notes Gerla. “But parents need to decide early what the purpose of enrolling their child in hockey is: is it to make the NHL or to have fun and get some exercise?”

Guess what? Your kid’s not going to make the NHL, so relax already There’s nothing wrong with pursuing the dream to become a professional hockey player, says Gerla, but parents need to get real. “There are about 750 players in the NHL, and millions more playing worldwide. If a child isn’t completely dominating his age group today, their chances are remote. And often, it’s the parent’s dream, not the child’s.”

Don’t be a stopwatch parent Gerla sees parents who start and stop their watch every time their child’s on the ice. “Hockey Canada’s Fair Play Code says all kids are supposed to play the same amount of ice time, but not every shift is the same in length: penalties and injuries may cause a coach to juggle lines and change things on the fly,” he explains.

Been there, seen that Vancouver hockey mom Eduarda Hodgins practically lives at the rink with her sons Matt, 12, and Connor, 9, who play at the North Shore Winter Club.

“I’m always running in high heels, lugging equipment, and I’ve torn nylons and exposed my rear bent over in a panic to tie skates,” she says. “I’ve learned to dress Connor as a goalie in eight minutes flat and I’ve learned to tune out parents who scream at coaches for line changes.”

Hodgins admits she, too, gets caught up in the competitive spirit of the game. “Have I yelled and screamed? Sure I have, particularly because my son’s the goalie, one of the most stressful positions on the ice. When I sit on the bench and he plays, my legs kind of mimic his; I’m trying to stop the puck from the end of my chair.”

But Hodgins knows where to draw the line. “It’s important to keep perspective. They’re just kids; they want to play and they want you to be their number one fan,” she says. “As long as they’re giving 100%, it doesn’t matter.

I don’t browbeat them when they come off the ice. It’s about building their confidence, not tearing it down.”

Lessons on and off the ice Drives to and from the rink are full of teachable moments, adds Gerla. But instead of doing a play-by-play on the way home, hold your tongue.

Hodgins agrees, adding that parents should also avoid chasing their own NHL dreams through their kids. “Let it be their own passion,” says Hodgins. “We didn’t push Matt to do extra power skating when he wanted to play baseball and take piano lessons. What defines a parent who has lost perspective is when it stops being a passion for the kid. That leads to bad parental behaviour.”

A little help from the minor leagues Although BHPs are the exception to the rule, when they behave badly, it can ruin everybody’s fun. That’s why minor hockey leagues across the country have integrated parental behaviour codes as part of their mandates, including ethics for players, coaches, volunteers, referees and parents, or online courses on how to prevent bullying, harassment and abuse.

Scott Gerla’s best advice for new hockey parents? “Avoid negative discussions and the parents who engage in them,” he says. “Find parents that want to talk about what the kids learned on and off the ice. Help your child become a problem solver and a decision maker through hockey. As my good friend, fellow coach and former Team Canada player Jamie Steer says: developing a hockey player is a marathon, not a sprint.”

Wendy Helfenbaum is a writer and television producer whose 5-year-old son skates way faster than she ever will. Visit her at www.taketwoproductions.ca.

How to develop your inner Good Hockey Parent: parents and coaches weigh in • Cheer for all the kids, not just your own.

• Support your coach: don’t undermine him in front of the players. If you have something to say to him, wait 24 hours, then discuss the issue in private.

• If you have a grievance with a coach involving your child’s safety, speak up immediately.

• Conduct yourself respectfully and responsibly.

• Ask yourself, “Is my behaviour embarrassing my kid? Are other people moving away from me? Are other people staring at me?” Think about how your child will feel if you are escorted out of the arena by security.

• Give the referee a break. Hockey is a fast sport, and no one can see everything.

• If you can’t keep your cool during a game, walk away, change seats, or leave the arena.

• Learn to let things go and move on. It’s a game, people!

You know you’re a Bad Hockey Parent if...

• You figure throwing a cup of coffee at the coach’s head is the perfect way to let him know your child’s shift wasn’t long enough for you to record a good video on your iPhone.

• You empty the contents of the garbage bin into the stands when the ref didn’t see what you thought was an obvious penalty against your child.

• You lift up your shirt to distract the players of the opposing team... of 11-year-olds.

• You continue the banter from the stands long after the game has ended.

• Instead of waiting outside your child’s dressing room to congratulate

him for trying his best, you’re planted outside the ref’s change room, ready to discus a bad call.

• You loiter in the parking lot, yelling at kids leaving the game.

• You’ve been escorted out of the arena more than three times in one month.

• You’ve been banned from two or more local rinks.

• Your child starts telling you how to behave during a hockey game.

March 2011

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health

You Can Eat to Starve Cancer

By Debbie Bowman

B

y now we all know that it’s important to eat a wide variety of natural foods. We know that by doing so we increase our chances of living a more vital and healthy life, free of disease. Cancer is one of the diseases that a healthy diet can help to avoid. Adversely, poor diet is attributed to 35 percent of common cancers affecting us today.

Cancer touches us all. One-hundred percent of the population is affected by cancer in some way—either personally or through someone we know. In addition, it has been found that approximately forty percent of women over the age of forty have microscopic breast cancer. Furthermore, one-hundred percent of individuals over the age of seventy have microscopic thyroid cancer.

Not exactly good news. But research has also shown that even though these microscopic cancers are prevalent in all of us, our bodies have a natural cancer fighting mechanism that keeps these cancers small and non-dangerous. This mechanism is called anti-angiogenesis.

Angiogenesis is the medical term for the necessary and natural process by which new blood vessels are formed from existing vessels. Angiogenesis is only needed in specific body functions, such as reproduction, development, and wound repair. Under normal conditions this system is completely regulated and actually starves cancer cells. But when cancer cells become fed by this process it is said that the angiogenesis process of the body is out of balance.

This is where the power of diet comes in.

There are specific foods that scientists now know will halt or inhibit the growth of blood vessels to cancer cells—anti-angiogenic foods. These powerful foods are packed with substances like flavonoids, catechins, quercetin, and lycopene that actually starve the cancer cells from the life-giving oxygen and nutrients provided by the blood vessels. In essence, anti-angiogenic foods re-regulate the angiogenesis process, bringing the body back into balance.

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These particular foods pack a potent anti-cancer punch. In fact, antiangiogenic foods are as powerful as many of the anti-angiogenic cancer therapy drugs used today. Some foods, like soy, artichokes, berries, and parsley, are more effective than many anti-cancer drugs—and there are absolutely no side effects. It’s also interesting to note that these cancer fighting foods work synergistically together. In other words, when they are eaten at the same time, their anti-cancer abilities are greatly increased. Here is a list of anti-angiogenic foods: Green tea Strawberries Blueberries Blackberries Raspberries Oranges

Grapefruit Lemons Apples Pineapple Cherries Red grapes

Bok choy Kale Parsley Artichokes Garlic Tomatoes, cooked

Pumpkin Soy beans Nutmeg Olive oil Grape seed oil Dark chocolate Red wine

Most of these foods you probably already eat. Some may be among your favourite foods. And it’s refreshing to see a list of delicious foods we should eat instead of a list of foods we should avoid. Nature is packed with a wide array of foods that protect our body from cancer, and we should take advantage of them whenever possible. Just be sure to eat them as close to their natural state as possible—meaning fresh and organic.

Here is a delicious smoothie recipe that utilizes the power of four different berries, as well as soy, nutmeg and dark chocolate, to create a potent anticancer treat.

Choco-Berry Smoothie 1 or 2 tsp. organic raw cocoa powder* 1 cup soy milk 1 cup frozen organic berry blend, consisting of blueberries, blackberries, strawberries and raspberries 1/3 cup plain or vanilla flavoured soy yogurt Pinch of nutmeg, freshly grated is possible 1 tbsp. flax seed oil 1 tbsp. ground flax seed Mix all ingredients in a blender and enjoy. The only possible side effect—brain freeze.

The yogurt gives the smoothie an added probiotic benefit and the flax seeds and oil are added to increase the Omega 3 essential fatty acid content—all which increase the body’s immune system, further protecting it from cancer. *Raw organic cocoa powder can be found in most health food stores. Normal cocoa powder, especially Dutch process, destroys most of the available flavonoids.

Debbie Bowman is a nutritionist and freelance writer based out of the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island.

Resources For further research watch Dr. William Li as he talks about anti-angiogenesis foods. www.ted.com/talks/william_li.html Also, you can visit the Angiogenesis Foundation website at www.angio.org For further research visit cancure.org/cancer_fighting_foods.htm

in the kitchen

Quick & Freezer-Friendly

By Andrea Undseth

T

his month’s recipe is a sure-fire way to save time and still serve a delicious dinner. Try doubling the recipe and freezing the extras.

Remember, if the meat has been previously frozen, freeze the meatballs after they have been cooked. Serve with some mashed potatoes and fresh green beans.

The Urban Chef’s Moroccan Meatballs Serves 4-6 Ingredients 2 pounds ground lamb, chicken, beef, veal or turkey ½ cup onion, chopped 100 grams almonds, sliced 1 tsp red pepper, dried 2 tbsp garam marsala 3 tbsp molasses 1 tsp salt 2 tbsp garlic powder 2 egg whites 1 cup panko breadcrumbs Preparation 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Celsius.

2. Place a piece of parchment paper on a baking sheet 3. In a medium bowl, mix all of the above ingredients well, by hand 4. Roll mixture into a ball about the size of a ping-pong ball 5. Place in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. Serve hot and freeze the extras.

Andrea Undseth is a local personal chef who provides meal service and other culinary solutions for busy families. A parent herself, she understands the gift of time. For more information visit her at www.theurbanchef.ca.

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March 2011

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health

10 Ways to Ensure Your Child Has a Great Body Image

By Michele Kambolis

A

mother complains she’ll “never wear a bikini” on the family’s upcoming trip to Maui after having that extra piece of chocolate. A father jokingly calls his nine-year-old son “string bean” after a growth spurt. A fiveyear-old talks about needing to go on a diet after a school chum calls her “muffin top Mary.”

The stakes are high when it comes to the rapidly declining body image of our youth. The latest reports from B.C. Children’s Hospital tell us that children as young as three are being referred to their Eating Disorders Clinic. Equally shocking is a recent Ottawa study revealing 60 percent of girls in grades seven and eight diet to lose weight, despite being within a healthy weight range.

Boys too are affected, with more than four percent of male teens now using anabolic steroids. It’s a daunting picture considering all that we’re up against culturally. While the answer to raising a healthy, body-loving child isn’t simple, there’s solace in knowing parents have a significant influence on a child’s developing body image.

1. Educate early. Children are developing unhealthy attitudes towards their body, food and weight at an alarmingly young age. By age three, the road to developing body image has already begun and by five, children have internalized the mainstream obsession with thinness. This is made far worse if they’ve witnessed their mothers restricting food intake. Instead, teach young children to think of their body as a wise and life sustaining machine rather than something to critique, and emphasize that by making good food choices our body helps us accomplish amazing things.

2. Cuddle, hug and hug some more. Children with attachment-focused and affectionate parents are less likely to feel badly about their body. As children grow towards puberty, a time when their body rejection increases, they tend to also reject parental affection. Try to find alternate and creative ways to be affectionate, while honouring your youth’s need for independence. This may mean a brief tussle of the hair rather than the usual nuzzle, but never give up on those hugs.

3. The power of role modeling. Children may tune out conversations about healthy body image and lifestyle, but they’re learning loads through your example. So, hold back on the telephone chats with friends about the latest diet strategy or comments about how many calories are in your morning cereal.

While we may not always be aware of our five-year-old’s listening ears, children are quick to internalize these throwaway comments.

4. Avoid the “good/bad trap.” When children begin to label foods as “good” or “bad” they begin to attach a Pandora’s box of negative feelings to foods. This can lead to guilt, deprivation, and, in turn, emotional eating. Consider how

Great Online Resources WK Health Centre: Promoting Health at Any Size research.aboutkidshealth.ca/thestudentbody Body Image & Self Esteem kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/body_image/body_image.html Children, Youth & Women’s Health Service: www.cyh.com/HealthTopics/ HealthTopicDetailsKids.aspx?p=335&np=287&id=1634

Must-Have Body Image Books 101 Ways to Help Your Daughter Love Her Body

by Brenda Lane Richardson My Mother/My Mirror

by Laura Arens Fuerstein

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often you may have held back on that sublime serving of crème brulee, only to overindulge with an over-processed box of Oreo’s later that evening. When we teach children that no food is bad food (we just need them in different amounts), we can teach them to manage nutrition in a balanced way.

5. Health at any size. Emphasize a body-inclusive attitude that focuses on physical activity rather than body size. The Ministry of Health recommends at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. When your child learns that this time can include a fun-filled bike ride or shooting hoops, rather than laps around the school oval, they’ll discover a life-long love of activity. If you want to take it further, avoid sedentary activity by limiting screen time to well under two hours per day, and for children under five, eliminate it entirely.

6. Media savvy youth. Media literacy helps improve body esteem and reduce unhealthy dieting. Discussing media images and what they’re conveying helps a child develop immunity to the steady stream of media messages that distort their perspective. When children realize they’re being manipulated by big business, they become critical consumers, putting down their teen magazines for something more inspiring. Instead, create a collage together with images of all kinds of people to emphasize that this is a varied world we live in.

7. Listen to “know” your child. It’s upsetting to hear children being self-critical, so parents may become dismissive or point out that the thoughts are irrational.

Instead, use these moments to better understand your child and, in turn, help them better understand themselves. When they make self-derogatory comments, ask how and why they want to look different, help them find their fears and misconceptions, and discover the whole picture of who they are.

8. Combat bullying. In a recent survey of adolescents in grades seven to 12, it was found that 30 percent of girls, and 25 percent of boys had been bullied by their peers about their weight. We know that weight and shape teasing is strongly correlated with poor body image, low self-esteem, and restrictive dieting among girls. So, help your child take a stand against bullying by teaching them how to identify and combat it. Taking a zero tolerance policy for harmful body-focused teasing will go a long way towards ensuring your child’s self image remains intact.

9. Consider development. Sharing information with your child about how their body naturally grows during puberty can help them appreciate and respect individual differences in growth patterns and in size. Most fail to realize there can be a 22 percent body fat increase during puberty, and genetic influence, heritability of height, and overall body shape are all part of the complex picture. Also, be sure to thin out your child’s closet on a regular basis to avoid tight waistlines as youth have been known to interpret this as “getting too fat.”

10. Let your child regulate their own eating. Because children naturally regulate their eating, it frees parents up to simply provide healthy options.

When parents enter into emotionally charged power struggles, the food mood connection becomes more complicated than it needs to be. Instead, be sure to expose your child to several healthy options, making one of which something they’re sure to enjoy. In the long run we want children to learn to listen to the wisdom of their bodies. So don’t fret—if they’re light on one meal, they’ll make up for it during the next.

Michele Kambolis is the Clinical Director of Harbourside Counseling Centre, Vice Chair of BC Mental Health Foundation and founder of CHIKids. She can be contacted at 604.689.9116 or www.childinfo.ca for any questions about your child’s mental health and development.

health

The ABCs of Lifelong Health W hen my daughter was born, I was flooded with emotion. I looked into her eyes and felt a deep sense of responsibility. In the days following her birth I was overwhelmed by thoughts of all the things in this world that could hurt her and I wanted to protect her from them. The frightening fact is that we are living in a time where our children have a shorter life expectancy than their parents. The culprit: lifestyle choices leading to obesity. Did you know that in Canada 21% of toddlers are obese?

That’s why when I started preparing my daughter for school by teaching her the alphabet, I also taught her the ABCs of physical literacy to prepare her for lifelong health and fitness. These skills are classified in three different categories: Agility, Balance and Coordination. Giving our little ones the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity takes effort, but here are some simple activities that you can start to incorporate today.

Agility: Jack Be Nimble, Jack Be Quick How many times per day do you find yourself saying, “be careful,” “don’t run” and “slow down?” Try not to say it so often. Agility is defined as being able to change the body’s position quickly and efficiently. We need to give our children opportunities to practice this skill. Try getting out a flash light and dim the ceiling lights in your house. Put on a little mood music and flash circles of light on the floor, ask your child to jump on the light beams as you quickly move them from one place to another. Even young crawlers will enjoy this activity by trying to grab the lights on the floor.

By Kari-Ellen Walcer

to shake a rattle, or beat a tambourine while dancing to some favourite tunes is fun, easy and inspirational. On a cold or cloudy day, why not gather in the living room and have a dance party?

Do it Together Fitness is a family affair. You are your children’s first teacher, and they will follow you for better or worse. When you have begun to find meaningful ways to keep yourself and your children active, invite your friends and join together to move your community into better health. You will find that you can inspire each other and have a great time doing it.

It is not too late for us to reverse the trend of childhood obesity and to give our children a healthy foundation for a long life. Now you know your ABCs, next time will you move with me?

Keri-Ellen Walcer is a children’s fitness professional and the mother of four young children. She is also the founder of MusiGo Inc. and creator of the Wee Wigglers preschool fitness programs. These programs can be found in many communities in B.C. and nationally. www.musigokids.com

Balance: I’m a little teapot There are two kinds of balance, one while standing still and the other while moving. Balance is an important skill to develop and does not happen by itself. Games such as hopscotch, hopping on one foot and two feet are great.

Another fun way to develop balance is through dance and yoga activities.

Do you remember the rhyme “I’m a little teapot?” ”I’m a little teapot short and stout,” stand with your child, feet wide apart. “Here is my handle, here is my spout,” put one hand on your hip and one hand stretched out. “When I get all steamed up hear me shout,” on the words “Tip me over and pour me out,” help your child to gently tip one way while bringing the opposite leg off the floor.

Practice this on both sides.

Co-Ordination: Boogie Baby!

Co-ordination is about being able to control all of your body parts while doing a variety of activities. One of the all time most effective ways to promote overall body co-ordination is through dance and music. Giving your child opportunities

March 2011

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spring break fun for everyone!

See ad in this issue.

Spring Break at Arts Umbrella Arts Umbrella, Granville Island March 21-25, March 28-April 1 Offering an intensive arts-infused learning experience. Through hands-on theatre, dance, visual, digital arts, professional programs and early childhood classes, children have the opportunity to be immersed in creative discovery and fun learning while they are free from their regular school work.

604.681.5268 | artsumbrella.com Underwater Adventures & Ocean Explorers Vancouver Aquarium March 22-25, March 21-25, 9:30am-3pm The top priority is creating an environment where your child will have fun while learning, so these camps are filled with engaging lessons that include hands-on activities, animal observations, crafts and physical exercise. Children will enjoy learning about local and exotic animals, life cycles, food webs, adaptations, ecosystems and sustainability. Help your child create a memorable and educational life experience they will never forget! See website for full details.

604.659.3552 | visitvanaqua.org Five Days of Inspiration Indigo and Chapters stores March 21-April 1 From arts, crafts and scientific fun to family games and great books that inspire wonderful reading escapes, kids and parents will discover daily interactive events at Indigo and Chapters stores nationally. In addition to 20% savings on kids and teen books, families will find clever games and activities for every age and stage to continue the fun at home. indigo.ca

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Wacky Weather and Natural Disasters Science World March 21-March 27 Drop in on the dome during this break from school to keep your mind sharp and full of interesting information!

604.443.7443 | scienceworld.ca Day camp Seabreeze Coal Harbour Community Centre March 21-25, March 28-April 1, 9:30am-1:30pm The energetic, responsible leaders go all out to ensure that their first-time day camp experience is a memorable one. Your child will participate in arts and crafts, stories, games, and songs. Each child should bring a backpack with a lunch, snack, jacket and hat each day. (3-5 yrs). $89/5 sessions. Register online.

604.718.8222 | vancouver.ca Global Junkology Camp Langley Centennial Museum March 21- March 25, 10am-2pm Join Dr. Recycle to reduce, reuse, and create the recycled versions of popular toys and games from around the world. One day, $28.25. Five days, $135. Ages 6-10 years.

604.888.3922 | langleymuseum.org Spring Break Adventure Camp Brae Island Regional Park March 21-25, 8:30am-4:30pm Register your tween in this outdoor adventure camp that includes kayaking, biking, survival skills, canoeing, crafts, swimming, outdoor cooking, nature exploration, and fun games. Campers stay overnight on Thursday to test new skills and enjoy a campfire experience with marshmallows, songs and comedy. Ages 8 to 12. $199 per child.

604.882.0408 | http://recexpress.tol.bc.ca

Spring Break Daycamp Ray-Cam Community Centre March 21-April 1, 10am-4pm Daycamp Kids (6 to 9 years old) and Youth (10 to 12 years old) will enjoy fun activities like crafts, movies and out-trips. Sign up early, as space is limited!

604.257.6949 | raycam.org Forensics Science Workshop Vancouver Police Museum Discover how police investigators collect and analyze evidence from crime scenes by doing it yourself! Take fingerprints, examine bullets recovered from the crime scene, measure blood spatter or examine a questioned document. Explore the science of contemporary police work. Suitable for children ages seven to 14.

604.665.3346 | vancouverpolicemuseum.ca Place des Arts March 21-March 25 Music, dance, drama and visual arts programs for children in kindergarten to Grade 5. With seven blocks of fun activities to choose from, including cartooning, pottery, dance, drumming, a variety of fine art classes, musical theatre and much more, kids will have fun, make friends and learn new skills over the break. Small class sizes and highly skilled teachers make this an engaging art experience. Please register online.

604.664.1636 | placedesarts.ca

spring break fun for everyone!

The Village Scavenger Hunt–Bears and Bare Facts Burnaby Village Museum March 21-27, noon-4pm Use your detective skills to decipher the clues. The answers are hidden about the village. The general store clerk will check your answers—a special treat awaits those who succeed. Need to take a break? Make a craft or take a whirl on the carousel, both are included with admission. $6.50 per person, ages 2+ (includes carousel rides, members are free).

604.297.4565 | burnabyvillagemuseum.ca YMCA Spring Break Day and Residential Camps Langara YMCA, YMCA Camps March 21-25, 9am-4pm Activities will include games, sports, arts and crafts, swimming, rock climbing, field trips, and much more! Extended hours are available. Join Langara for an additional week of fun from March 28-April 1. Preschool, school age, teen and residential camps available.

YMCA Camps: 604.939.9622 | Langara: 604.324.9622 | vanymca.org Circus Chaos!

The Act, Maple Ridge March 8-12, 9am-3pm The circus is coming to town and you can be part of it! This exciting hands-on circus camp will introduce participants to a multitude of circus skills including juggling, balancing, comic character development and stagecraft. For those older campers who have always wanted to try a unicycle or walk on stilts, here is your chance. Activities are catered to each age group and skill level. Experience what it takes to put on a show including decorating props and backdrops. On the final day, our Studio Theatre will be transformed into the ‘Big Top’ when campers present their routines and props they have created throughout the week. Be sure to register early! Ages 7 and up.

604.465.2470 | theactmapleridge.org UBC Sports Camps UBC Student Recreation Centre Gymnasium March 8-12, 9am-5pm This week long day camp gives your child (ages 5-8) the opportunity to play a variety of sports. They will also get the opportunity to spend time at the UBC Aquatic Centre and Osborne Gymnastics Centre. The goal is to teach young children some specialized sport skills but a major focus will be placed on increasing fundamental motor skills, teamwork, fair play, and how to have fun through physical activity. Remember to pack a lunch and snacks each day. You will also need your bathing suit and towel on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. $240 per person.

604.822.6121 | ubccamps.ca

Want to become a Jr. Zoologist?

Greater Vancouver Zoo Ever wonder what rhinoceros, lions and bears eat at the Greater Vancouver Zoo? What role do the plants or vegetation have in an animal’s environment? Discover what is invasive and how it threatens our ecosystems. Half day, full day and parent tot discovery camps. Before and after care available! Please check website for times and prices.

604.856.6825 ext. 26 | gvzoo.com/specialevents

Mega Kids Spring Break Daycamp Greg Moore Youth Centre, Maple Ridge March 21-25, 8:30am-4pm This will surely be a week full of activities and themes oozing with excitement and adventure. Kids will play fun active games, create cool yummy treats, make fun crafts and science experiments, and much, much more. Participants should come prepared with bathing suit and fun clothes. For kids ages 6-12 years. $175.

604.463.4200 | mapleridge.ca

Kids on Stage Evergreen Cultural Centre, Coquitlam March 21-25 or March 28-April 1, various times This is a weeklong camp with a focus on theatre fun! Kids will be completely immersed in the creation of a play including set design, costumes and all the other little details that go into putting on a play. On the Friday, kids will present their play to family and friends. Please send a lunch, drink, and snacks. Now a second week has been added with several different themes to choose from. $195 for kids aged 7-12.

604.927.6550 | evergreenculturalcentre.ca

Surrey Nature Centre March 28-April 1, 9am-3pm For kids who love being outside and exploring our environment!

Come discover ecosystems, get crafty with eco-art, play outdoor games and take nature walks. You will even learn to fish at Green Timbers Lake! Ages 6-12. $131.25. Register now as spaces are limited.

604.502.6065 | surrey.ca

Port Moody Arts Centre March 21-25 or March 28-April 2, various times.

From pottery to clay and drawing, printing and painting, learning theatre games, creating skits and making puppet plays, there is something for every artistic child aged 5-14. Costs start at $120.

604.931.2008 | pomoartscentre.ca 4Cats Arts Studio Guided by highly trained curators, kids create imaginative pieces inspired by the work of famous artists, with the use of professional high quality art materials including acrylic paint on canvas, silkscreens and pottery wheels. Using the Montessori approach to learning, these classes take place in a beautiful studio environment where child-led learning is encouraged. Keep your young one busy by creating masterpieces in a variety of exciting mediums! All camps are broken into two age groups: ages 4-7 and 8-12, with many locations to choose from. $155.

4cats.com Calling all Gymnasts Phoenix Gymnastics March 21-25, March 28-April 1 Full and half-day camps include gymnastics skills, arts & crafts with games and fun in the gym. Full day camps will include different outings and daily activities. Each week of camps runs for 5 days, Monday to Friday. Sessions start at $116 and are for children aged 3-12 years. Before and after camp care available. Please check website for different camps offered.

604.737.7693 | phoenixgymnastics.com

Spring Break Cooking Camp Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts, Granville Island March 21-25, March 28-April 1, 10am-2pm Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts’ Cooking Camp for Teens teaches more than just the basics. Learn knife skills, kitchen safety, along with fundamental cooking techniques that are put to practice preparing cuisines from Spain, Italy, Germany and France.

Students will enjoy a variety of tasting experiences created to aid palate development and encourage originality in their future creations. A tour of Granville Island Market and Fishermen’s Wharf will peek their interest in local and sustainable food choices. A dining etiquette workshop conducted over lunch in the on-site restaurant, Bistro 101, provides a hands-on and elbows–off emphasis on the importance of dinner conversation. Ages 10-14 or 15-18. $450.

604.734.4488 | www.picachef.com Go WILD For Spring Break WildPlay Element Parks March18-April 3 Forgo the TV and forget the mall—there’s a better way to spend your Spring Break! Have fun climbing, swinging, jumping, and zipping through your week. Location depends on adventure chosen. Walk-ins are welcome; however, it is recommended you reserve the time in advance. Please check the website for details. wildplay.com

March 2011

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wcf feature

Kid Crazy in Parksville Photos and text by Cassandra Anderton

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ast spring, in my role as the partner/girlfriend of the father of four young boys, I got a quick lesson on planning for large family holidays. The boys are active and feisty, the youngest at the time was three, the twins were six and the eldest nine years old. I consider myself a seasoned traveler, but when suddenly I had more than just myself to entertain, I had to make darn sure we ventured to a spot where there was more to do than just harass one’s siblings.

The kids are based in Alberta, and we live in Vancouver, so I wanted to plan some time for them in the big city and then venture off somewhere a little less fast-paced, and that wouldn’t take all day to get to. After a quick check on possibilities, I decided Parksville met the criteria.

Parksville is easy to reach through the BC Ferries route from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo. The boats leave every few hours daily and the journey is great for whale watching, grabbing a quick meal aboard and perhaps a chance to do some reading or play some old-fashioned video games.

Parksville is a little warmer than Vancouver in the spring and, despite the less than sunny weather, we found more than enough to keep us busy over the five days we were there. The house we rented at Oceanside Escapes as a base camp had two bedrooms, a loft, a full kitchen, a barbecue and two bathrooms—plenty of room for all. As a bonus, this resort had a pool, mini golf, sushi spot and is currently priced at $800 for a whole week.

We spent a night at Tigh-Na-Mara Resort, which is the perfect kid’s resort and also one where adults can have play time too. While my partner and I bathed in the mineral pools at their Grotto Spa and then spent a few hours enjoying the “endless tapas” experience (still in our robes) at their Treetop Restaurant, the resort’s babysitter came to our room, helped the kids “Build Your Own Bear,” ordered pizza and watched a movie with them. This was the perfect mid-vacation break for all of us.

When we weren’t jumping in and out of the pool or playing mini golf at Oceanside Escapes, we ventured out to check out the activities in the surrounding area. A favourite for the kids was Butterfly World. This nature sanctuary is full of hundreds of free-flying butterflies who flutter through the gardens amongst the turtles and tropical plants. There is also an orchid garden which was, surprisingly, equally fascinating for the boys, and a big bug jungle with creatures from around the globe.

Not to be missed are the famous “Goats on The Roof” at the Old Country Market. Originally just a small fruit stand beside the road, this attraction now has international foods, imported gifts, house-baked goods, and ice cream. The goats are actually kept on the roof, which children found particularly hilarious and there is an enticing deli and restaurant where we happily fed ourselves with some gourmet treats while pleasing the kids with their favourites.

Having sparked some farm animal interest in the boys with the goats, they were eager to see more and ready for some further critter exploration. Morning Bay Farm is not far from the market and at the time we visited, the lambs were just born and baby chicks had arrived. This is also the home of Qualicum Cheese and MooBerry Winery, so we stocked up on a few items here, the kids did some cheese tasting, while I sampled some wine. The old farm equipment was of particular interest and the boys took turns “driving” the tractor.

On the days that the weather was warmer, we walked down to Rathtrevor Beach to beachcombe. There’s over a kilometre of beach at low tide and walking trails through the old-growth forest that kept us all entertained for hours. Many of the shells made it back to the cabin—as well as much of the sand!

While we ate most of our meals at home, the area certainly has many restaurants that are kid and adult friendly. Lefty’s in Parksville was a fun casual spot with some great to-go pizza and the recently added Blu Burrito Grill looks like a spot we could have all found a great lunch (nights are adult-only).

Local grocery stores were stocked with great local products (Thrifty’s was a favourite amongst our group).

Parksville kept my pseudo-family busy and created some great childhood memories for the kids, while giving the adult side of the equation a break too (kudos to Tigh-Na-Mara). We certainly did spoil ourselves a bit during the week, but the region definitely has reasonably priced accommodation, dining and low cost outings. If you are looking for a getaway, whether you’ve got a bigger or smaller family than mine, this is one place that won’t leave you with the holiday doldrums.

Cassandra Anderton is a freelance wine, food and travel writer and broadcaster.

Cassandra was born in New Zealand, grew up in the Okanagan and has made Vancouver her home for the past 20 + years. She is passionate about local food and wine, and loves to travel to learn and report on what others are doing to promote their local culture. www.goodlifevancouver.com

Parksville Resources Tigh-na-mara Resort 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville 250.248.2072 info@tigh-na-mara.com www.tigh-na-mara.com Oceanside Escapes 105 - 1080 Resort Dr, Parksville 604.684.4066 www.oceansideescapes.com Goats on the Roof/ Old Country Market 2326 Alberni Hwy, Coombs 250.248.6272 www.oldcountrymarket.com Butterfly World—Turtles 250.248.7026 1080 Winchester Rd, Coombs www.nature-world.com

Morning Star Farm 403 Lowry’s Rd, Parksville 250.954.3931 www.morningstarfarm.ca Lefty’s 101 - 280 East Island Hwy, Parksville 250.954.3886 www.leftys.tv Blu Burrito Grill 941 East Island Hwy, Parksville 250.586.7782 Thrifty’s 280 East Island Hwy, Parksville 250.248.8823 www.thriftyfoods.com BC Ferries www.bcferries.com

Visit www.visitparksvillequalicumbeach.com for a full list of activities and accommodations.

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Singer/Pianist

Laila Biali talks with WCF about motherhood, music and mental multitasking…

What’s the lowdown on you?

I turned 30 this past October (milestone birthday!). Over the past year, I got married and then gave birth to a baby boy (Joshua). My parents live in Vancouver on the North Shore where I grew up. I play piano, sing, compose music, write lyrics, experiment, think, dream, watch, listen, learn, grow. I am passionate about my family, my friends, social justice, irreligious spirituality (to borrow the words of author and teacher Bruxy Cavey), beautiful spaces (indoors and outdoors), physical wellness (I love hot yoga and walking), and all things organic and fair trade (food, clothing, the store Ten Thousand Villages, etc).

How did your career come about?

I started piano lessons at age four and became quite serious about classical music at a young age, listening to ARCT level piano repertoire from various composers and picturing myself mastering these pieces. Even at eight years of age, I would sometimes go to sleep to tapes (yes, cassette tapes—remember them?) of the Chopin etudes, dreaming of playing them someday. The prospects thrilled me! At the same time and especially throughout high school, I was very serious about my academic subjects and was awarded a four-year science scholarship to UBC in my graduating year. That same year, however, the Handsworth Secondary high school band performed at MusicFest and I was offered a scholarship to attend Humber College’s jazz program in Toronto. A couple of close friends were planning on going, so I decided I would join them and have some fun for a year, pursuing something “more serious” the year following and hoping to defer my science scholarship. I decided to stay for the duration of Humber’s jazz program (instead of just for one year) and in 2001, I was selected to perform with the International Association for Jazz Education’s (IAJE) Sisters in Jazz Collegiate All-Star Sextet. That opportunity, which brought us on a tour around the world (I was just 20 years old at the time) led to many more, firmly setting my feet on the path to a full-time career in music. >>> Photographed by Edith Maybin March 2011

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wcm feature

The Health Benefits of Friendship

By Amy Fardell

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s children, we saw our friends every day in class and had playdates on the weekends. As teenagers, we talked to our girlfriends at least several hours each day about our lives, loves and tribulations. In college, that number probably dwindled as we (hopefully) became a little more serious about our studies. Which leaves us where we are now. The typical mother, busy with work, home, spouse, children, etc., talks to her friends an average of 30 minutes per week, often less. Ironically, we’ve never needed our friends more.

Having a good network of friends doesn’t just make you happier, it also keeps you healthier. A ten-year Australian study that just concluded found that people over 70 with a good circle of friends were likely to live 22% longer than those who did not. And if a longer life isn’t enough of a reason, how about having a stronger immune system and better cardiovascular function? Not to mention increased brain health (including less risk of Alzheimer’s) and fine motor skills like strength, speed and dexterity.

For women, especially, friendships are key to long-lasting emotional and physical health. Women have a stronger need than men for nurturing, emotionally-bonding friendships. Unlike men, we frequently turn to our friends for emotional support and as a means of establishing our own identity. And because of the different needs of men and women—men are more actionoriented, women prefer dialogue and emotional exploration—turning to one’s partner as the sole emotional support can backfire on your romantic relationship.

Interestingly, the research shows that close relationships with family— even those with parents, spouses and children—do not offer the same lifeextending benefits as those garnered from our friendships. Family relationships are important, no doubt, but not to the exclusion of those with our closest buds.

Of course, in today’s hectic world, it often feels like a chore to simply pick up the phone and call someone, let alone plan a face-to-face meeting. Here are some ways you can fit your friendships back into your life—and health—plan: 1. Share Time. Just like your kids do at school, set a weekly or monthly time to “show and share” your lives, whether over coffee or lunch. Make it a regular date that is automatic, so that you don’t have to expend mental energy on trying to figure out when to get together.

2. Learn and Earn. Sign up for an exercise, language, cooking or welding class with your friend—whatever gets you fired up. Find a common interest and exploit it for all it’s worth. Not only are you spending time together regularly, you are learning new skills.

Onya Bags

3. Go Away. Schedule an annual getaway with your buds. If you can’t afford a vacation, make it a one-day event. Go museum (or bar) hopping, schedule a whirl of aesthetic or spa treatments, make a quilt together for charity, just do it away from your families and responsibilities.

4. Turn On Your Listening Ears. Friends share not only the good in each others’ lives, but the bad as well. The sense of caring and connection we feel when another person really understands how we tick has enormous health benefits, and is one of the key components to a lasting friendship. Pay attention to important moments in your friends’ lives and don’t disappear during difficult times. A card or quick note can cheer someone up enormously.

5. If You Don’t Have Anything Nice to Say… Simple, genuine compliments can have a remarkable effect on someone’s mental and emotional outlook. If there’s something you admire about your friend, let them know. They will feel better about themselves, and you will feel better for giving a little happiness.

6. Don’t Speak Until Spoken To. One of the best things you can do as a friend is never give unsolicited advice. You might indeed have the perfect solution to a friend’s problem, but if they haven’t asked you for it, they will just end up with the impression that you think they’re incompetent. Wait for the question, and if it doesn’t come, keep your solution to yourself.

7. Be Spontaneous. If you come across a hilarious joke, a fabulous recipe or some gardening tip that you think your friend will enjoy, forward it right away.

Just be wary of becoming an email stalker. Nothing is more annoying than receiving chain letters and stale jokes on a daily basis.

8. Stop Keeping Score. We all do it. “I paid last time, so she should pay this time.”

“I can’t come over until I return her dinner invitation.” Good friends don’t barter their time together. If you do find yourself doing too much of the giving, with little or no return, you may want to re-evaluate the quality of your friendship and decide if it is something you are truly comfortable with or if it’s worth ignoring.

the plastic bag alternative!

9. Prioritize. Sure, you have a lot to do. We all have a lot to do. More than we can ever get done, in fact. But the dishes aren’t going anywhere and if your kids’ socks are not folded into symmetrical balls for once, I can pretty much guarantee that their feet will not fall off their bodies. To quote Carrie Bradshaw, stop “should-ing” all over yourself and do something that will make you happy—and healthy.

Onya Bags are made from soft, silky, strong parachute materials. They are small, light and conveniently pack into their own pouches, clipping onto your handbags, belts, key rings... with handy carabiners.

10. Stay Away From Bad People. Good friends are invaluable, but toxic ones can shorten your life and cause way too many frown lines. Watch out for bullies, misers, pessimists, meddlers, narcissists and other soul-suckers. Surround yourself with generous-hearted, positive, engaged and respectful individuals, and live up to those qualities yourself.

From pouch to bag experience

Our lives are busy and full, but making time for our friends not only brings an abundance of happiness, but health as well. Next time you feel down—or up—do the healthy thing and reach for a friend.

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What are some of your biggest challenges in work? In life?

As a new mom, my greatest challenge is balancing quality time with my baby, his very real needs as an infant, and a full-time career in music (with a husband who is also a full-time musician). I barely have time to eat and shower, never mind all the daily business emailing and intermittent performing and touring that needs to be fit in somehow. Sleep eludes me these days and I confess to feeling a perpetual state of exhaustion. Thank God I have an amazingly supportive husband and community of friends, a delightful son, and a career that I love; joy and a sense of calling in these things is what sustains me.

order to regroup and refocus. With a six-month-old baby, I don’t really get any “days off.” That said, on one day out of the week I try to “unplug” from the internet (activating an automatic vacation response email message and boycotting social networks) so that I can just focus on being a mom without being half-dialed into my work while I’m with Joshua. It is amazing how refreshing it is to step away from the cyber cyclone and do a little less mental multitasking. I also try to take a couple hours out of that day for quiet meditation and reflection, which usually enables me to refocus and come back to my work with renewed energy and vision.

What would you describe as some of the biggest rewards of your work/ family?

Having had the opportunity to work closely with several artists of international acclaim (Chris Botti, Paula Cole, Suzanne Vega and with Sting, who is one of my musical heroes) has been incredibly rewarding. In terms of day to day life, the love of our family trio (Ben, Joshua and I) couldn’t feel more satisfying and profound.

Any must-haves?

My humidifiers. I can’t do without them! (That was an odd answer, wasn’t it?

Not for a singer and not at this time of year!) Oh, and here’s another weird answer: my Costco membership!! For someone who so loves local and independent retailers, I must confess to being quite hooked by their steep discounts and killer return policy.

Do you manage to take time-out for yourself? If so, what does that entail?

When I recently felt at the end of my rope, with failing health and dwindling vitality, a dear friend suggested I take a weekly “sabbath” or day of rest in

Tell us one or two of the most important life lessons you have learned through being a mom/performer.

No matter what we do in life, I believe it is our relationships that matter most.

Accolades and professional acclaim are wonderful, but they do not ultimately define who we are. Loving people is what life is all about.

Marketplace

A magical comedic fun-filled show, with one of 30 costumed characters.

Performing: Singing, Dancing, Magic, Animaloons, Joking Puppets & Face Painting. For: Parties, Holiday Celebrations & Promotional Events.

736★0876 / 729★4987 www.castletopcharacters.com

The Children’s Party Specialists Face painting, balloon animals, arts and crafts, and more.

604-318-1261 • www.partyarts.ca

Love Those Loot Bags Unique fun-f Unique, fun--fille illed, ed affordable loot bags that both kids and parents will love!

Call: 604.888.6772 or visit: www.lovethoselootbags.com

Children’s Kingdom Montessori Centre Preschool & Kindergarten Register Now! September and January Enrollment Mandarin, Art & Music classes are included 4720 Elgin St. Vancouver (near Knight & 31st Ave.)

Tel : (604) 872-8898

March 2011

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Where to pick up your copy of

Adult Events for the Hip Mom Around Town!

Death of a Salesman Vancouver Playhouse March 1-5, 8pm

Willy Loman is the American everyman: the dreamer chasing unsuccessfully after greatness until he becomes consumed by the dream. Tickets start at $32.

604.873.3311 | vancouverplayhouse.com

Legally Blonde the Musical Queen Elizabeth Theatre March 3-6, various times

Based on the hit movie of the same name, Legally Blonde the Musical is the award-winning Broadway sensation. This all-singing, all-dancing, feel-good musical comedy will be the highlight of your year!

Tickets start at $112. queenelizabeththeatre.org

International Women’s Day Open House Historic Stewart Farm March 5, noon-4pm

In the 19th century women were often the doctor, nurse and pharmacist for their families. Discover the achievements of women inventors in Stewart Hall.

Then visit the farmhouse to sample some of the teas that were used to treat common ailments, or just for warmth and comfort. Admission is by donation.

604.592.6956

The Card Show Art Auction & Show The Fall Gallery, 644 Seymour St March 5, 7-11pm

Over 70 artists will create and show their original art pieces based on medieval playing cards. Each piece will be showcased in a silent auction, with bidding starting at $75 with all proceeds benefiting B.C. kids.

778.319.1448 | bcchf.ca

Birds in Focus Photography Workshop Boundary Bay Regional Park March 6, 9am-1pm

Basic to advanced photography skills, techniques, digital aspects, equipment selection and more. Bring your camera, tripod, film/card, and anything else you might need. Raptors will serve as models during the practice session. Ages 12+, $20/person.

604.432.6359

Mardi Gras Masquerade Tea Party Ayala Moriel Parfums Studio, Downtown Vancouver March 8, 7-10pm

Mark your calendar and pull out a mask because Ayala Moriel Parfums is excited to launch their new scent, New Orleans, with a Mardi Gras Party. Take in jazz music, while munching on a menu of New Orleans’ favourites including king’s cake. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased online.

778.997.1944 | ayalamoriel.com

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Zero Waste Challenge Conference 2011 March 10, 9am-4pm

Attend this conference to discuss regional waste reduction opportunities. For more information visit the website and search “zero waste conference.” metrovancouver.org

Courting Bold Dreams Boathouse Restaurant, Arbutus St March 11, 9-11am

Tools and Techniques to help eliminate doubt and achieve your dreams! Have you ever dreamed about starting your own business, running a marathon, or writing your memoirs? Listen to two amazing women and coaches—Felicia Lee and Sarah Dakin—talk you through eliminating self-limiting thoughts and how you can achieve what you didn’t think was possible! Buy your tickets early as these events sell out fast. momcafenetwork.com

Parent Date Night Tong Louie YMCA March 12 6-10pm

Looking for “me” time or a chance to have an evening out with your partner? Drop your children off for an evening of activities including swimming, crafts, movie, group games and more. A nutritious snack will be provided. First child is $15.00, each additional child is $10.

604.575.9622 | surreyymca.org

21st Century Flea Market Croatian Cultural Centre March 20, 10am-3pm

With 175 different vendors offering everything from shabby chic to 50s kitsch, collectibles and memorabilia to vintage kitchenalia, this popular Europeanstyle collectors market is a must-see! $4 for admission.

604.980.3159 | 21cpromotions.com

Immersion Vancouver Aquarium March 25, 8pm-midnight

An exclusive evening event for adults to enjoy music, entertainment and cocktails in an inspiring venue.

Interact with our amazing creatures and engage in new experiences at the Aquarium. Includes appetizers and access to cash bar. Non-members $30; members $24.

604.659.3400 | visitvanaqua.org

Want WestCoast Families at YOUR event?

Call 604.249.2866 or email admin@westcoastfamilies.com us to receive free delivery of our magazines to your family event!

Vancouver East West Coast Chamber Music The Family Place Trout Lake Community Centre CirKids Room for 2 Maternity Apparel Goober Baby Wee Runs Reruns Vancouver Public Library Vancouver West Vancouver Breastfeeding Centre Vancouver Public Library-Oakridge Marpole Community Centre West Vancouver Memorial Library St Georges School Lifesong School My Adventure Boot Camp Vancouver Downtown Strathcona Community Centre Nannies On Call Ingledews KJD Kids Vancouver Art Gallery North Shore North Shore Childcare Resource Centre Harry Jerome Recreation Centre W. Lucas Learning Centre Vancouver Waldorf School Centennial Theatre Delbrook Recreation Centre North Shore Family Services Richmond Thompson Community Centre Arts Connection Richmond Public Library-Brighouse Fun 4 Kidz Kidzone Playcentre Tri-Cities/Maple Ridge Coquitlam Public Library Place Maillardville Baby’s World Pitt Meadows Twin Rinks The Birth Place Place Des Arts Earth Angel Port Moody Arts Centre Burnaby/New Westminster Burnaby Public Library-McGill Canlan Ice Sports Edmond Elementary School High Touch High Tech Burnaby Community Connections Surrey/Delta Surrey Public Library-Whalley Surrey Place Medical Clinic Bear Creek Park Train Great Pacific Forum Pinewood Elementary Surrey Public Library-Cloverdale

March 2011 Imagination Movers The Centre for Performing Arts March 3, 4pm & 7pm See Disney’s Imagination Movers live at their debut Canadian appearance in “In a Big Warehouse Tour”!

604.602.0616 | centreinvancouver.com Munscha Mia Waterfront Theatre, Granville Island March 5-27 Carousel Theatre for Young People presents this highoctane play with live music, based on the books by Robert Munsch, including old favourites like Stephanie’s Ponytail, Jonathan Cleaned Up-Then He Heard a Sound and Aaron’s Hair. See website for schedule and prices.

604.669.3410 | carouseltheatre.ca Music with Marnie Kitsilano Community Centre March 11, 10:30-11:15am Bring your child and join Children’s Musician Marnie Grey, as she sings about all the things that children love. $10 per child, first adult is free. kitscc.com Kids Swap Meet Cloverdale Fairgrounds March 12, 9am-1pm Early $5 admission from 9am-10am, 10am-1pm is $3.

New and gently used kids items for sale. One of the most established kids’ swap meets in the Lower Mainland.

604.588.9919 Magical Kingdom Fleetwood Community Centre March 12, 12:30pm-1:30pm Calling all princes and princesses to join this fantasy party. Make crowns, magic wands, dress-up and have fun in the magical kingdom of make-believe. $5.75 for each child aged 3-5yrs. surrey.ca Kids Stuff Only Market Coal Harbour Community Centre March 13, 10am-1pm If you have children’s toys, clothes, or books and you no longer use them, this is your chance to sell these items.

604.718.8222 | vancouver.ca Family Day Surrey Art Gallery March 13, noon-4pm Explore, enjoy, and create art together! Drop in for family-friendly activities inspired by the exhibitions, plus a special performance. Children must be with an adult.

Suggested donation $3 per child. surrey.ca/arts St. Patrick’s Polymer Clay 4Cats Arts Studio March 8, 11:15am-12:15pm or March14, 4:40-5:40pm Register online to make your own St. Patrick’s Day clay figure to take home. Ages 3-6 on March 8 and ages 6-10 on March 14. $15.

4cats.com St. Patrick’s Day Craft Time West End Community Centre March 16, 3:30-4:30pm Your child will go home with the crafts they have made.

Parent participation required. This is a free event.

604.257.8333

community calendar Night Quest Lantern-making Workshop Pacific Spirit Regional Park March 18, 5:30-7:30pm Learn how to build your own lantern to showcase at Night Quest the next night from 7-10pm as you gather around a fire to enjoy entertainment and experience the magic of the park and its nocturnal life. Visit discovery stations and watch for glowing eyes along 2 km of lantern-lit trails. Bring flashlights or lanterns and allow one hour to complete the quest. Ages 6+, $2 per lantern for materials.

604.224.5739 | metrovancouver.org Cinderella Evergreen Cultural Centre March 13, 2pm What could be better than a fairy tale told in song?

This opera is full of lively tunes, fast-paced fun, comical characters and added surprises. Perfect for young audiences, Cinderella is brought to life in an enchanting English adaptation of Rossini’s full-length opera, La Cenerentola.

604.927.6550 | evergreenculturalcentre.ca Chor Leoni’s Kidz Koncert The Old Auditorium, UBC March 19, 1pm & 7:30pm Explore children’s music and stories from around the world, all sung in grown up style. Expect fun, stories, and readings from the amazing children’s author (and Vancouver resident), Robert Heidbreder. It’s a concert that will appeal to everyone–and blankies are welcome! $30 adults, $10 children under 12.

877.733.9688 | chorleoni.org Chickadee Capers Burnaby Lake Regional Park March 19,10:30am-noon Follow the flight of excited chickadees, listen to their calls, and play games. Enjoy the outdoors as you learn about this tiny songbird. $12.23 per child/adult pair. Ages 3-5.

604.421.5225 Green Thumb Garden Party Surrey Nature Centre March 19, 10am-2pm (drop in) Check out our new facility as you and your family celebrate spring! Get ides for your outdoor space like planting a wildlife or veggie garden and creating a balcony planter. Play and get growing in the Lil’ Sprouts Zone for kids. Browse local foods in the Surrey Urban Farmers Market. Rain of shine, all ages and it’s free!

604.502.6065 St. Patrick’s Day Fun Kensington Prairie Community Centre March 19, 1:30pm-3pm Follow the colors of the rainbow and watch your child’s eyes fill with joy as the magic begins. This preschool party is full of activities and games to keep your little one busy. $9.25 for 3-5 year olds. civicsurrey.ca The Big Sneeze Surrey Arts Centre Studio Theatre March 20, 2pm What do you do when you’re in Grade 4, you don’t fit in, and your best friend ignores you? You try to make yourself invisible. Lizzy practices being invisible every day and she’s getting pretty good at it, until one day right in the middle of gym class, she has the loudest, most gigantic sneeze EVER. Intended for ages 5 and up. surrey.ca/arts

Behind the Scenes Maplewood Farm March 24 & 26, 11am & 2pm Learn to prepare grain, and bedding for the farm animals, grooming and tutorial on ponies, also, learn to wash eggs after collecting them from the hens. Participants must be pre-registered, appropriate for age 3+. $22.40 per child/adult pair.

604.929.5610 | maplewoodfarm.bc.ca Kid’s Spring Fling Surrey Nature Centre March 25, 10am-2pm (drop in) This will be a day filled with outdoor games, eco crafts, nature activities, and discoveries—just for kids! Hunt for bugs, search for birds, and play in the forest. Rain or shine.

Free. Parent participation required.

604.502.6065 | surrey.ca Family Program at Bloedel Conservatory VanDusen Botanical Garden March 26, 10:30am-12:30pm or 1:30-3:30pm Discover the diverse tropical plant life as you explore with your guide to learn about the amazing birds that call Bloedel home. The whole family with children ages 5-11 can enjoy this program. Member Family $10, NonMember Family $20. Pre-registration required.

604.718.5898 | vandusengarden.org Rainforest Insects Minnekhada Regional Park March 30, 1-3pm Explore a rainforest and look around for millipedes, spiders and insects that roam this habitat. Ages 5 to 7. $10.50/ child, adult pair.

604.927.4386 Discover Dance!

Scotiabank Dance Centre March 31, noon Vancouver’s JC Dance Co showcases the glamour and skill of Ballroom and Latin dance for this edition of The Dance Centre’s popular Discover Dance! noon hour series.

604.606.6400 | thedancecentre.ca Fred Penner The ACT (Arts Centre & Theatre), Maple Ridge March 31, 7pm Join this favourite children’s performer as he performs with the Kanaka Creek Kids Choir. Tickets are only $15.

604.476.2787 | theactmapleridge.org Cherry Jam Downtown Burrard Skytrain Concourse March 31, noon-1:30pm This is a free concert for all ages to dance and sing to spring rhythms with local celebrities. Welcome spring to Vancouver beneath a magnificent canopy of cherry trees in bloom. vcbf.ca Alice in the Forest Festival Bear Creek Park Train April 1-3, 10am-5pm Come dressed in your favourite Alice costume and have a hare-raising time visiting the crafts, games and entertainment tents in the forested area of the train.

604.501.1232 | bctrains.com

March 2011

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last look

Emily Carr: Charcoal Trees

By Shari Pratt

Suitable for ages 6-12

Supply List • • • • • • •

Tempera paint (sky and ground colours) Metallic tempera paint (gold, silver, bronze) Charcoal White cartridge paper (I used 18 x 24) Sponges Brushes, palettes Optional: photographs or books about Emily Carr and her paintings

Instructions 1. Talk about: the artist Emily Carr. Show pictures of her tree paintings.

2. Using the charcoal, draw a 1.5” boarder around the paper 3. Talk about: “What is a horizon line?” Draw a horizon line on the lower 1/3 of the paper.

4. Talk about: Foreground and Background. “What makes them different?”

5. Draw 2 large trees in the foreground. These trees should start at the bottom of the page and go through the horizon line to the top of the page.

6. Draw 2 small trees in the background. These trees should start at the bottom of the horizon line to the top of the page.

7. Using the charcoal, colour in the foreground trees. These should be coloured dark.

8. Using the charcoal, colour in the background trees. These should be coloured lightly.

9. Choose a sky colour and mix with a metallic colour. Do your mixing on the paper rather than in the palette to create a variety of colour tones in your sky. Paint the entire sky.

10. When finished sponge the paint in an up and down motion.

This gives a unique texture to the paint.

11. Choose a ground colour and mix with a metallic colour. Do your mixing on the paper rather than in the palette to create a variety of colour tones in your ground. Paint the entire ground.

12. When finished sponge the paint in an up and down motion.

13. Allow to dry.

14. Once dry, re-draw charcoal trees and border (this emphasizes the lines covered over accidentally with paint.

15. Add branches to your trees.

Artistic Influence Emily Carr (Dec 13, 1871– Mar 2, 1945) was a Canadian artist and writer who specialized in scenes from the lives of Native Americans and

the British Columbian rainforest. She lived amongst the Haida on the Queen Charlotte Islands to research her subjects. Many of her Expressionistic paintings represent totem poles and other artefacts of Native American culture.

Title: Untitled (Formalized Cedar), charcoal, 1931 This drawing is part of the Vancouver Art Gallery’s Collection.

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Shari Pratt is a local artist and teacher and owner of Creative Kaos School of Art and Imagineering. www.sharipratt.com

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