VIAF December/January 2015 | Issue 18

Vancouver Island's FREE COUPON and affordable lifestyle magazine

VANCOUVER ISLAND

www.almostfreemagazine.com

December/January 2015 | ISSUE 18

DIY GOURMET

gift baskets & recipes

NANAIMO & AREA SEE PAGES 10-11

PAGE 2

GREATER VICTORIA

THE RESOLUTION FACTOR: Making

Goals Work

SEE PAGES 14-28

COWICHAN VALLEY

PAGE 44

SEE PAGES 30-37

Your ASTRO

HOROSCOPES PAGE 38

DESTINATION

HOLIDAY

SHOPPING 8 Maps to Inspire & guide you…

A LOCAL BUSINESS REFERRING YOU TO 1

Winner of the 2014 Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Crystal Award for Business Excellence for a NEW Product or Service.

LOCAL Businesses

OUP IN C

ONS

flavours ENTER to WIN your own Basket WHEN CREATING ONE TO GIFT!

(give any of the participating retailers this ballot at time of purchase) Not applicable with retailers of Vancouver Island Salt Co.

DI Y

Name: Phone:

GOURMET GIFT

Email: Draw date December 25, 2014.

baskets & recipes

This recipe goes with Basket

4

blood orange pot de crème

PAGES 3-6 FOR VICTORIA SHOPPING This recipe goes with Basket

1

4

1

3 4

3 2 2

2

cup Scallops, cleaned and trimmed cup uncooked Shrimp, rinsed cup Lox tbsp Apricot White Balsamic tbsp Leccino Extra Virgin Olive Oil cup Dry White Wine (Riesling or Pinot Grigio) cups Farfalle (Bow Tie pasta) cups Whole Milk tbsp Nutmeg Salt and Pepper to taste tbsp flour

In a non-stick frying pan, bring Apricot White Balsamic to a simmer over medium heat.

Toss in shrimp and sauté 2-3 minutes, add in scallops and sear with the balsamic together an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil.

A GREAT

GIFT IDEA

1

tbsp Espresso Dark Balsamic

seafood pasta

2 4

cup Whipping Cream (divided) cup Dark Chocolate (Mast Brothers chocolate is amazing here!) cup White Sugar egg yolks tbsp Blood Orange Fused Olive Oil

In a sauce pan over medium heat, mix Leccino and flour together to form a smooth paste, cook for 2 minutes until bubbly and creamy. Slowly begin to add milk, ¼ Cup at a time, whisking constantly, after each addition to emulsify. Once all the milk is added, simmer until sauce is creamy and thick. Be careful not to let the sauce come to a rolling boil.

Toss Bowtie pasta into pot of water, cook till al dente, about 10 minutes, then drain and rinse.

Reheat frying pan and seafood, adding wine to deglaze the pan. Once wine has reduced by half, add cream sauce to seafood mixture and the salmon lox, then stir until fully reheated and combined. Season lightly with salt and fresh cracked pepper.

Arrange pasta on serving plates, pour seafood sauce over pasta and top with lox.

Your Foodie Friends will love our

sample packs of 6 for just $26

In a small sauce pan, bring ¾ cup cream to a simmer over medium heat, careful to not let the cream come to a boil. Remove from heat and add in chocolate and sugar, let stand 5 minutes.

Preheat oven to 325F. In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs until light and fluffy and slowly drizzle in blood orange fused olive oil.

Stir cream mixture to encourage the chocolate to melt and continue to stir until completely combined and smooth.

While whisking egg mixture slowly pour in chocolate cream, and fully combine.

Divide between two ramekins, or small oven-proof mugs, and place in a baking dish. Add hot water until it reaches half way up the dishes. An 8x8 pan works perfect.

Place in oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the center is almost set. The custard will firm as it cools. This can be made ahead and kept in the fridge up to 2 days.

Whip remaining ¼ Cup of cream. When serving, place a dollop of whipped cream over the pot de crème and drizzle with Espresso Balsamic! Yum!

SEE PAGE 27 FOR COUPON DOWNTOWN VICTORIA/JAMES BAY

BRING WELLNESS & ELEGANCE INTO YOUR EVERYDAY!

Did you know? Extra Virgin Olive Oil helps to lower the levels of blood cholesterol?This leads to lowering risk of heart disease. Balsamic Vinegars, as does Extra Virgin Olive Oils, fights cancer. The grapes from which balsamic vinegar is formed are known to contain a bioflavonoid called quercetin, which has antioxidant properties. Along with vitamin C, this antioxidant strengthens the immune system to fight cancer and other infectious diseases and inflammations.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil also contains polyphenols IN THE HUDSON, 1701 DOUGLAS ST, VICTORIA which are anti-cancer agents.

VISIT OUR ONLINE STORE

250.882.4210 www.olivethesenses.com

2

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2015

flavours

A SWEET NIGHT IN basket

to WIN R E T EN very own your ET BASK of one

e urchas ts with p produc e n fi e s e th f o e 3-6. on pag

serving Chocolate Trifle with Merridale Winter Apple Cider and Wildfire Almond Bark and 2% Jazz Bourbon Coffee.

$10-$15

1. Merridale Winter Apple Cider A fresh and velvety sipping drink with an aroma of baked apples and buttery brown sugar. Serve straight in the tradition of Port, and pair with cheddar or blue cheese, melons, fruit desserts and dark chocolate.

$12

2. $10-$15 Pepper's Gift Card for perishable ingredients Available at Peppers Foods 3829 Cadboro Bay Rd www.peppers-foods.com

$15-$20

3. 200 ml Strawberry Dark Balsamic from Olive the Senses Available at Olive the Senses, 1701 Douglas St (in the Hudson) www.olivethesenses.com

Available at Spinnakers Spirit Merchants.

VIC WEST 130-176 Wilson St OR JAMES BAY 3–435 Simcoe St www.spinnakers.com

4. Kuhn Rikon Rainbow Whisk

$23

BUDGET

$89-$100

Available at Whisk Kitchen Supplies, Victoria Public Market 6 -1701 Douglas

1

$24

6. Bourbon Coffee Beans from 2% Jazz Available at 2% Jazz, 2631 Douglas St or 1701 Douglas St (in the Hudson). www.2percentjazz.com

$4.75/ 100g

5. Almond Bark from Wildfire Bakery Available at Wildfire Bakery, 1517 Quadra Street www.wildfirebakery.ca

This recipe goes with Basket

chocolate trifle with stewed balsamic strawberries 2

1

1

cups of Fresh Strawberries, rinsed and hulled and halved cup Strawberry Dark Balsamic Chocolate pound cake or unfrosted brownies cup whipping cream

1

tbsp Icing Sugar

In a sauce pan, place strawberries and balsamic, bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, until the strawberries are soft and the juice will easily coat the back of a spoon.

Cut up pound cake or brownies into 1-inch cubes or chunks. In a cold bowl, combine cream and sugar, whip until soft peaks form.

In a two wine glasses, place some cake in the bottom of the glass. Top with 2 heaping Tablespoons of stewed strawberries, and a dollop of whipped cream. Repeat layers and finish with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of sauce from strawberries.

Lifetime Friendships Lifetime Supports Lifetime Networks.

Give the gift of support this season that lasts a lifetime.

Lifetime Networks supports people with disabilities. www.lifetimenetworks.org 250.477.4112

Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine

| AlmostFreeMagazine.com

3

flavours

TWO-COURSE COMFORT basket

serving a Baguette, Cheese & Preserve Tray followed by Slow Roasted Chicken & Seasonal Vegetables in an Orange Glaze. Served with Unsworth’s 2010 Vineyards Cuvee de L’ile.

1. Unsworth 2010 Vineyards Cuvee de L’ile Pale straw in colour. Apples, citrus, hints of clove and crème fraiche on the nose is followed by green apple and orange peel on the palate, adding brightness to a dense and generous mouth feel.

2. RSVP Cheese Knife Set Available at Whisk Kitchen Supplies, Victoria Public Market 6 -1701 Douglas

Available at Spinnakers Spirit Merchants.

VIC WEST 130-176 Wilson St or JAMES BAY 3–435 Simcoe St www.spinnakers.com

9. Oakanagan Fall Red Pepper Jelly to go with Baguette & Cheese

$10

$20-$25

Available at Cowichan Bay Seafood 1701 Douglas Street www.cowichanbayseafood.com

$5.59 $9-$10

Available at Maria's Deli & European Imports 4080 Shelbourne St

$10-$15

$34.95

3. $10 Cowichan Bay Seafood Gift Card for some candied salmon to go with cheese & preserve tray

BUDGET

$119-$130

8. $10-$15 Maria’s Deli Gift Certificate for Goat Chevre or Cambozola Blue Cheese

4. 170 g Smoked Canadian Sea Salt from Vancouver Island Salt Co.

2

Available at Maria's Deli & European Imports 4080 Shelbourne St

Find a retail outlet near you at www.visaltco.com - see retail.

$5-$10

$20

$12

6. $5-$10 Wildfire Gift Card for Baguette to go with cheeses & preserves

7. $20 Pepper's Gift Card for perishable ingredients

Available at Olive the Senses, 1701 Douglas St (in the Hudson) www.olivethesenses.com

Available at Wildfire Bakery, 1517 Quadra Street www.wildfirebakery.ca

Available at Peppers Foods 3829 Cadboro Bay Rd www.peppers-foods.com

5. 200 ml Cara Cara Orange – Vanilla White Balsamic from Olive the Senses

This recipe goes with Basket Book your Catered Holiday Cocktail or Dinner Party

starting at $199 Supplement the busy holiday season or start off the year right with healthy tailored personal chef services

starting at $90 a week.

Book Today!

@Plump-Plate-Catering plumpplate@gmail.com | www.plumpplate.com

4

2 slow roasted chicken with seasonal root vegetables and orange glaze 6

2 2 1 2 2

Baby New Red Potatoes, rinsed and scrubbed with the skin still on Carrots or 1 cup of baby carrots small Parsnips, peeled and chopped Red onion, chopped Chicken Breasts Tbsp fresh parsley chopped, garnish

In a slow cooker or roasting pan, arrange the potatoes, carrots and parsnips in the bottom of the bowl. Top with onions and arrange so it creates a flat surface.

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2015

Place, cleaned and washed chicken breasts on top of vegetables. Pour ¼ Cup of Cara Cara Orange – Vanilla White Balsamic over chicken. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Turn slow cooker onto low, and let sit for 6-8 hours, or preheat oven to 375 and bake for 35 minutes, covered, 10 minutes uncovered.

Carefully place chicken on plate, cozy the vegetables up to the chicken in a pretty arrangement and drizzle with extra juices from roasting pan.

Top with parsley and enjoy!

flavours

TRIO OF TASTES basket

serving Arugula Salad with Grapefruit Vinaigrette to start, Crusted Rack of Pork with blistered cherry tomatoes and asparagus for the main, lingered by a Cheese & Sweets Tray for Dessert served with 2% Jazz Bourbon Coffee. Dinner served with Joie 2011 Gamay.

1. Joie 2011 Gamay Sweet sour cherry aromas give way to white pepper and earthen aromas.The ripe bramble fruit on the palate is accented by notes of white pepper, coffee and bacon flavours, balanced with juicy acidity.

2. Bourbon Coffee Beans from 2% Jazz

$24

$25-$30

Available at 2% Jazz, 2631 Douglas St or 1701 Douglas St (in the Hudson). www.2percentjazz.com

Available at Spinnakers Spirit Merchants.

VIC WEST 130-176 Wilson St or JAMES BAY 3–435 Simcoe St www.spinnakers.com

$36 3. 200 ml Koroneiki Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 200 ml Grapefruit White Balsamic, and 200 ml Arbequina Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Olive the Senses

8. 45g Danish Blue Cheese Sea Salt from Vancouver Island Salt Co.

Available at Olive the Senses, 1701 Douglas St (in the Hudson) www.olivethesenses.com

$4.50$5.50

BUDGET

$159-$170

Find a retail outlet near you at www.visaltco.com - see retail.

7. The Victoria & Circle Tour Art Calendar 2015

by Blue Heron Arts (calendar includes recipes)

Available at Peppers Foods 3829 Cadboro Bay Rd www.peppers-foods.com

3

The Victoria & Circle Tour Art Calendar 2015

$20 $15

Available at Maria's Deli & European Imports 4080 Shelbourne St

6. Cookies & Almond Bark from Wildfire Bakery to go with the Cheese & Sweets Tray for Dessert

This recipe goes with Basket

Available at Wildfire Bakery, 1517 Quadra Street www.wildfirebakery.ca

This recipe goes with Basket

3 crusted rack of pork blistered asparagus and cherry tomatoes small pork loin with ribs in, 2-3lbs cups Bread Crumbs Large Spanish onion, minced cloves of garlic, minced tbsp White Sugar tsp each, thyme, oregano, rosemary, dried. cup Arbequina Extra Virgin Olive Oil tbsp Dijon Mustard Salt and Pepper to taste bunch of Asparagus small container of Cherry Tomatoes

5. $10-$15 Maria’s Deli Gift Certificate for Mango & Ginger Stilton and Asiago to go with the Cheese & Sweet Tray Cheese

$10-$15

This and other culinary books available at Fairfield Book Shop 247 Cook St www.fairfieldbookshop.ca

1 2 1 3 2 2

2

1 1

4. $30 Pepper's Gift Card for perishable ingredients

$30

In a non-stick frying pan, sauté onions and garlic in half the Arbequina Extra Virgin Olive Oil, until almost tender. Sprinkle with sugar and caramelize, about 2 minutes.

Toss in Bread crumbs and dried herbs and lightly toast and stir to combine. Mix in remaining olive oil.

Wash pork and pat dry. Lightly season with salt and pepper and coat with Dijon mustard. Preheat oven to 400F. Pack bread crumb mixture around loin, and place in a roasting pan with the asparagus and cherry tomatoes, cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, reduce heat to 375F uncover and bake an additional 20 minutes, until the interior temperature of the pork is 140C. Remove from oven, cover and let stand.

2

3

arugula salad with grapefruit vinaigrette cups of Freshly washed arugula cup Toasted Walnuts cup Dried Cranberries Shaved Parmesan to taste

Grapefruit Vinaigrette 2 3 1 1

tbsp Koroneiki Extra Virgin Olive Oil tbsp Grapefruit White Balsamic tsp Dijon Mustard minced shallot

On a Small plate, arrange the arugula, in a pretty pile, sprinkle toasted walnuts, cranberries and top with Parmesan shavings.

In a small bowl or glass, mix together vinaigrette ingredients, and whisk to combine. Drizzle on top of salad and enjoy!

Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine

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5

flavours

FULL EVENING FLAVOUR basket

serving a Cheese & Preserve Tray for 1st course, Roasted Beet Salad with cinnamon pear balsamic and goat cheese crumble for the 2nd, Nutmeg & Spice Seafood Pasta makes 3, Blood Orange Pot de Creme for 4 with 2% Jazz Bourbon Coffee making a “perfect five”. Serve Pentage 2008 Chardonnay Reserve in the first 3 courses.

1. Cork Screw Available at Whisk Kitchen Supplies, Victoria Public Market 6 -1701 Douglas

$16

2. Colavita Black Olive Pate to go with Cheese & Preserve Tray

$5

230g/ $6.50

Available at Maria's Deli & European Imports 4080 Shelbourne St

12. Pentage 2008 Chardonnay Reserve Aromas of citrus, vanilla and peaches. Palate showcases pear and citrus flavours with a hint of vanilla.

Lightly oaked with balanced acidity.

4. $30 Pepper's Gift Card for perishable ingredients

3. Crackers from Wildfire Baker

115g/$3.75

Available at Peppers Foods 3829 Cadboro Bay Rd www.peppers-foods.com

Available at Wildfire Bakery, 1517 Quadra Street www.wildfirebakery.ca

$2.95

$25-$30

5. La Molisana Bow Tie Pasta Available at Maria's Deli & European Imports 4080 Shelbourne St

Available at Spinnakers Spirit Merchants.

VIC WEST 130-176 Wilson St or JAMES BAY 3–435 Simcoe St www.spinnakers.com

BUDGET

$189-$200

11. 35g Fleur de sel from Vancouver Island Salt Co. Find a retail outlet near you at www.visaltco.com - see retail.

$30

6. $10-$15 Maria’s Deli Gift Certificate for Portsault Cheese

4

$5-$6

$24

$20

$10-$15

10. $20 Cowichan Bay Seafood Gift Card for the Seafood Pasta Ingredients

9. Bourbon Coffee Beans from 2% Jazz

Available at Cowichan Bay Seafood 1701 Douglas Street www.cowichanbayseafood.com

Available at 2% Jazz, 2631 Douglas St or 1701 Douglas St (in the Hudson). www.2percentjazz.com

8. 200 ml Cinnamon Pear Dark Balsamic, 200 ml Blood Orange Fused Olive Oil, and 200 ml Espresso Dark Balsamic from Olive the Senses

Available at Maria's Deli & European Imports 4080 Shelbourne St

$20

The Victoria & Circle Tour Art Calendar 2015

$36

7. The Victoria & Circle Tour Art Calendar 2015

by Blue Heron Arts (calendar includes recipes)

This and other culinary books available at Fairfield Book Shop 247 Cook St www.fairfieldbookshop.ca

Available at Olive the Senses, 1701 Douglas St (in the Hudson) www.olivethesenses.com

This recipe goes with Basket

ENTER to WIN your own Basket

WHEN CREATING ONE TO GIFT!

(give any of the participating retailers this ballot at time of purchase) Not applicable with retailers of Vancouver Island Salt Co.

Name:

Phone:

Email: Draw date December 25, 2014.

6

4 roasted beet salad with cinnamon pear balsamic and goat cheese crumble 3

1

cups of Beets, peeled and cubed, (golden and red if you can find them) cup Cinnamon Pear Dark Balsamic cup Goat Cheese crumbled cup of Baby Kale, Washed and torn Salt and Fresh Cracked Pepper to taste

Fill a pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add in beets and reduce heat, simmer for 30-40 minutes until almost tender, but can be

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2015

easily poked with a fork. Drain water.

Preheat oven to 350F. On a parchment lined cookie sheet, arrange beets in a single layer and drizzle liberally with Cinnamon Pear dark balsamic. Toss gently to coat.

Bake for 20-30 minutes, turning once to ensure beets are evenly roasted. Roast until beets are very tender and balsamic has reduced to a thick glaze.

On serving plates, arrange baby kale, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Arrange beets on bed of kale and top with goat cheese crumble.

Delicious. No Work. Great Value.

CATERING THE SOUTH & CENTRAL ISLAND

Book your Catered Holiday Cocktail or Dinner Party starting at $199 Supplement the busy holiday season or start off the year right with healthy tailored personal chef services

starting at $90 a week.

Book Today!

See what we are up to on Facebook & at www.plumplate.com

Happy HOLIDAYS!

@Plump-Plate-Catering | plumpplate@gmail.com | www.plumpplate.com

Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine

| AlmostFreeMagazine.com

7

letter FROM THE EDITOR

our team How will this season be different for you

than last year?

on usually brought a sense Remember when as a child, this seas from traditions played over of mystery, excitement, and nostalgia ard to the new toys or year after year. Many of us looked forw cousins at gatherings; we clothing we asked for and playing with ng for some special gifts to put significant effort into creating or savi give all on our own. t. Money became a real As we got older, things began to shif responsibility came into thing, as did working, and some serious seat to reality. Recently a play. The sense of magic took a back to help collect 1,000 new publisher friend asked me if I wanted this season. Though holiday toys to give to children less fortunate wasn’t until this request from messaging was already in full-gear, it ut my friend that I got really excited abo the season and a new tradition.

I challenge you to also make a new tradition. Whether it’s charitable or embracing a new way of gift giving this season (you might get some ideas from Gourmet Gifting on page 3).

Elissa Bergman, Editor

EDITOR & PUBLISHER

Elissa Bergman elissa.vaf@gmail.com 250.419.2579 LAYOUT & DESIGN

Donna Hainstock, Freelance Graphic Designer PHOTOGRAPHY

Rachel Knoop, Razzle B Photography CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Louise Hodgson-Jones Jenny Hainsworth Saira Waters Victoria Holmes Andrea Zonnis

26

how to contact us For advertising opportunities in the next issue of VANCOUVER ISLAND ALMOST FREE magazine please contact Elissa at 250.419.2579 / elissa.vaf@gmail.com

© 2015

www.almostfreemagazine.com

DECEMBER/JANURARY 2015 | ISSUE 18 Vancouver Island Almost Free Magazine Winner of the 2014 Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Crystal Award for Business Excellence for a NEW Product or Service.

www.almostfreemagazine

8

@VictoriaAlmostFree

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2015

Donna Hainstock, Graphic Designer

@VicAlmostFree

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

ISSUE THE DECEMBER/JANUARY

in every issue 10

21

8

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

9

TABLE OF CONTENTS

features START YO U R

holiday shopping

2

FLAVOURS DIY Gourmet Gift Baskets & Recipes

12 COMMUNITY CULTURE Steam 20 CHARITY FOCUS

The Mustard Seed

EXPLO RE

the island

Each community section invites you to come explore the wonders of Vancouver Island with tips, write ups, and coupons!

21

HEALTH & WELLNESS Give Yourself the Gift of Self-Care: Do’s and Don’ts for Self-Care Over the Holidays

29

MONEY CENTS How to Pick a Financial Advisor

38 ASTRO SOUL HOROSCOPES 44 FITNESS TIPS

The Resolution Factor - Making Goals Work

CORRECTION Page 11 in October/November, Issue 17. We sincerely apologize for the incorrect author name used in Flight Centre advertisement. It is CASSANDRA JACK not CHRISTIAN DEAN.

communities ISLAND SPECIAL OFFERS

start here

NANAIMO & AREA

GREATER VICTORIA

COWICHAN VALLEY

SEE PAGES 10-11

SEE PAGES 14-28

SEE PAGES 30-37

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9

B EACH

shop Q UA LI CUM

shop & walk QUALICUM BEACH 1

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Brown-Eyed Susan’s Fun… Funky… Affordable

Find Something Original

Women’s Clothing, Nightwear, Swimsuits & Accessories

Three Galleries, Twenty Resident Artists and One Great Gift Shop

210 W. Second Ave., Qualicum Beach (corner of Beach & Second Ave.) 250-738-0638

The Old School House Arts Centre 122 Fern Road West, Qualicum Beach, BC 250-752-6133 www.theoldschoolhouse.org

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2

Belgian Chocolates & Truffles | Rogers’ Chocolates & Ice Cream Saskatoon Berry Products | Maple Products | Sugar Free Chocolates & Candies | Imported Candies & Licorice | Fresh Fudge Greeting Cards | BC Art, Souvenirs & Gifts

CHOCOLATES PLUS 9

144-2nd Ave W. Qualicum Beach 250-752-8483 122A Craig Street, Parksville 250-248-7425 chocplus@shaw.ca

EVERY GARMENT IN OUR STORE STARTS AT 50% OFF Pendants, Necklaces, Handbags, Clothing

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Coffee or tea served with a delectable treat Courtyard Cafe and Patio:

Prancing Pony Gifts 2-133 Second Ave West, Qualicum Beach, BC @PrancingPonyGifts 250-594-9011 prancingponygifts@hotmail.com

Your go-to place in downtown Qualicum Beach.

Gluten Free and special diets are no problem!

673 Memorial Ave, Qualicum Beach, BC, (250) 752-4152 courtyard.tryon@gmail.com

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4 Wicked Good Sushi!

Offering an eclectic array of unique jewellery, fashions, gifts and local art

In a relaxing setting, just off 2nd Ave. Fully accessible.

Qualicum Sushi 133 West 2nd Avenue, Qualicum Beach, BC 250-752-5199

FASHION & LIFESTYLE

5

147 Second Ave W, Qualicum Beach, BC 250-738-9008 @Arbutus-Emporium

13 For all the things that move you…

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Join the Map! Victoria Almost Free Magazine Call 250-419-2579

shop Q UA LI CUM B EACH

Qualicum Beach Slow down and feel the time go by as you enjoy all that Qualicum Beach offers. The scenic waterfront will rewind the hours as you capture the natural beauty and tranquility to relax and contemplate the good life! The town core boasts all kinds of shops for any style. The eateries are fresh and plentiful!

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11

COMMUNITY

culture

steam Lisa had always thought it was cheesy, this clock, with its off-key hooting. Every summer it was surrounded by tourists who must, she had thought, merely be desperate for a point of interest. She used to imitate its odd sound for the amusement of her friends: Hoon hoon HOON hoon.

Hoon hoon HOON hoon.

Now, twenty years later, in the middle of December, she almost apologized to the thing. She wanted to hear that hooting again, for old times’ sake. But it was getting colder, and Sylvie was getting heavy in her arms.

7:25. Would they hear the tune at the half hour? Or was it only on the hour? Lisa couldn't remember. She looked at her daughter, at the solemn little face turned upward, watching the steam billow and vanish into the dark.

"Do you like it, honey?"

Sylvie nodded, her eyes on the steam.

"Are you cold?"

"No. Yes. No." "Do you have to pee?"

Sylvie shook her head.

Seven-thirty now. The clock wouldn’t sound until eight, then.

"Well, let's walk back to the Skytrain, okay? We'll take another ride."

"I want it to go up, up, up high." Sylvie illustrated with a swoosh of her arm.

"Okay, honey, well, this time when we go on it, it will go higher. You'll be able to see a huge ball of lights called Science World. Then we'll get off and take a bus up to Auntie G's."

"Are we staying over again?

At Auntie G's?"

"Yes." 12

BY JENNY HAINSWORTH

"Yaaaay!" A pause. "Mommy."

"Yes, sweetheart?”

"When are we going home?"

"I'm not sure, love. Hey, can you walk a bit now, sweetie?

My back is a little sore."

Sylvie slid down.

They walked back along Water Street toward the station. The merry hum and clink of restaurants. Everything bathed in the appealing light of Gastown.

They stopped in front of a rock and mineral shop. A TV stood in the window, showing a documentary about gem mining. A trick projection threw multicoloured gems of light onto the sidewalk. Lisa looked at Sylvie’s coat and smiled.

"Look, honey! They're on you!"

Sylvie lifted one arm in its sleeve and squealed . Then she looked up at her mother’s face, searching.

"Ahh! They're on you too, Mommy!"

"It's neat, isn't it, Sylvie? “ “Uh-huh.” Sylvie pumped her fingers, trying to imprison a red gem of light.

Suddenly a voice roared: "MERRRY CHRRRISTMAS!” The sidewalk was suddenly filled with Santas. A river of them, spilling into the holiday traffic. All shapes and sizes.

Sleek female Santas, rakish lad Santas.

Woolly, spongey, tattered, and fluffy beards, dirty beards, sparkling beards.

A swaggering Santa with a single glossy Christmas ball hooked into his tights at the groin. Lisa stifled a screech of laughter with her gloved hand.

Sylvie stood against the wall and pushed some hair back from her eyes.

She watched the Santas with the air of an anthropologist. That hair, Lisa thought.

I wish she'd let me put a barrette in it.

The Santas kept flowing. Some in conversation, some looking around.

A kind young Santa noticed Sylvie

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2015

and knelt down, fishing in a pouch at his side. “Merry Christmas.” He offered Sylvie a candy cane.

"Thank you! What do you say, honey?"

"Thank you."

Lisa lifted the girl once again onto her hip. Sylvie clung to her expertly, minimally, as a young goat adheres to a cliffside.

A non-Santa face emerged from the crowd. Older. A fume of alcohol, but steady enough on his feet and no threat.

"WELL!" he puffed, addressing Lisa. "I guess THERE. GOES. SANTA! It’s like: 'MOMMY! Why are there so many?'"

Lisa didn't explain that it was no bubble burst; she and her husband -- ex-husband – had never led the kids to believe in Santa – not really.

But she played along with the joke.

"Mommy, some of them are girls!"

Her companion guffawed.

Lisa lifted Sylvie higher on her hip and plunged into a gap in the Santas, moving upstream. The man fell into pace beside her. The Santas parted and flowed around them.

“I’m Lisa. This is Sylvie. We’re just headed to the Skytrain.”

“I’m Bill! Nice to meet you two!”

As they rounded the corner to the station, Lisa stopped.

"What’s. . .that fire?”

“Oh, you haven’t seen that?” Bill chuckled. “Not been here for a while, eh? Yeah that’s a new restaurant or something. They have those torch things on the – whatsit. Patio.”

“I grew up in Vancouver. I’m on the Island now. We’re visiting. It’s hard to explain. . .” Lisa trailed off.

“No, I gotcha,” said Bill.

Life, eh? It’s messy!”

"Yes,” Lisa murmured, looking at the fire, and the strange light it cast on the building’s façade. “When I

CO MM UNI T Y

lived here, there was none of that the –the -- " He patted a breast pocket stuff in the station. Just a deli and a containing an imaginary document. bookstore, I think it was. Not even "Um, overseer? Supervisor?"

Starbucks -- just a one-off cafe."

He grinned . "Yeah! I was the guy "Yeah! Gastown is totally different, telling them it was all legal and eh? It was nothing in 1969. Just a good. Haha! Think of that!" bunch of whatever stores, right? But Lisa smiled. "That's cool." it had those bumpy things, though."

He searched Lisa’s face, stuck for the Sweets, The Santas kept streaming into Gastown. cinnamon word. He pointed to the ground.

The companions approached a statue Savoury eats...

"Cobblestones,” Lisa suggested. in the dark. A winged woman bearing caribbean Style the body of a soldier to heaven.

"Yeah, cobblestones. Yeah, I was around here back then. This was “I love this, eh.” said Bill. my patch, youTwo know? stole one best-kept of IVictoria’s secrets: “Me too,” saidCaribbean Lisa. “I just Village’s hundred and cinnamon twenty-six cars fromand thisowner buns James Bowen’s famous learned that it’s a victory, not anspecial neighbourhood.

Back in the day."

He heartangel. spicy chicken.

In the of Quadra I always Village, thought itthis was cafe grinned and straightened himself. Lisa angel whenbuns I wasand a kid.” serves upamore than just an delectable spicy poulet. noticed now that he had black eye.

“That’s not an angel?”

Open Monday A pause. Then Lisa raised herto Saturday, 7 am to 7 pm to meet “Apparently not. It’s a of you will find a cornucopia eyebrows. "Acustomer hundred anddemand, twenty-six?” mythological figure -- Roman.

Caribbean-fused scrumptious treats and home-cooked "YEAH! Got my education in She symbolizes victory.” smells as you enter the tropically themed eatery. jail, eh. Got my high school Bill gazed up at it. “Some victory.” and I did my •trade too."

20 Entrée Menu Items Sylvie • Homemade Ginger Beer was now fast asleep, "Oh? What's •your trade?"

Rice Dishes and Curriesslumped • Oxtail Soup and Coco Bread in Lisa’s arms.

"Heating and•refrigeration.

GotSmoothies my Punches and • Espresso Coffees Lisa sighed. “Well, I better ticket. On the•inside!

Haha!

I got and get 14 types ofWhen Pastries Cakes her – back.” out, I got sent• on jobs, eh.

I didn't even Savoury Samosas, Patties“Yeah! and Fritters Little cutie.” have to do nothing. I just stood there and watched the other guys work, haha.

I was “Are An innovator and creator, owner Jamesinside?” takes pride in you coming

culture

Bill opened the door for them.

“Uh, no! I’m – not allowed in. To Waterfront. Long story.” He looked down.

“No, I gotcha,” said Lisa. “Life is messy.”

2656 Quadra Bill looked quickly up at her. Street, Victo He cleared his throat.

778 265-0911 • royalcurr “Yeah.”

BuSInESS hou “Take care, Bill.” to Thursday: 11:30 am–2:30 Monday Friday & Saturday: 11:30 am–2:30 pm “You too, Lisa.

Take care Sunday: 12:30 pm–8: of little cutie there.”

“I will.”Lunch & Dinner • Take-Out Lisa carried Sylvie inside.

MaIn CourSE She looked out of the station window for a moment, Bill. The Allwatching Day Lunch Box Special (Com Santas were all BBQ gone now.

Withleg a (1) quarter with Chicken solemn face LisaBeef watched as Bill kebab, tzatziki sauce and fr looked left, then right. Then he All Dayinto Lunch Box Special (Com turned and vanished the dark.

BBQ Chicken leg (2) quarter with cumi Jenny Hainsworth is a BC-born tzatziki sauce and fresh gr painter and writer. Her solo art show, All Day Lunch Box Special (Com 'Lanterns and Dragonfruit', inspired BBQ Chicken Breast with cumin spice r

by Victoria's Chinatown, is on now sauce until Jan 2 at the central branch of and fresh green the Victoria Public Library. herSpecial (Com Kabsah RiceFind Box on the web at www.rabbitinthedirt.

One lamb shank with bone, basmati r shank kabsah masala, k wordpress.com/ or like her pagein'Jenny Hainsworth Fine Art' on Facebook.

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botti boneless, kabsah Party Picnics & Beef Gatherings…

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the uniqueness of each menu item. And like his food, Kabsah Rice Box Special (Com James finds the distinctness of his customers. He Chicken with bone, kabsah ric remembers their names and circumstances, and truly BBQ Chicken Tikka Holiday Baking with James Bowen oftoCaribbean Village Cafe cares for people’s well-being.

These things combine Chicken leg quarter marinated with y garlic & spices). Served with Rice or N keep people coming back.

Perhaps notorious for his spunky two plus himself, James does most Butter Chicken $1 Drop by soonpersonality and try the three new samosas: SimpleBoneless Chocolate and outgoing nature, of the baking, and from memory— chicken, yogurt, tomatoe Jerk Chicken, Cajun Chicken, and Grilled Chicken.

James’ true creative side comes he has never written down a recipe Chip Mint Cake out in his baking.

Originally from Grenada, James discovered baking as a way of life shortly after moving to Canada.

He owned a successful wholesale baking company, two Caribbean Village Cafes, and Knotty Bean Cafe, of which he sold to settle into the current Caribbean Village Cafe at 2646 Quadra Street, over sixteen years ago. His care for customers has really set him apart in this business.

When you enter the doors, the cornucopia of over 20 types of baked goods in the coolers, tells another story. With a small staff of

anywhere. “Just a handful of sugar, a pinch of nutmeg, a sprinkle of cinnamon - see those are nice words to describe the recipe,” he explains as he makes his infamous Banana Chocolate Chip Squares.

James’ other menu items score big with customers as well. Butter Chicken, Samosas, Spicy Chicken, several curries, and roti, to name just a few savoury items, will please any palate. However, one rarely leaves from a meal there without a sweet treat in hand.

This season, James graciously agreed to pass along a recipe for your kitchen.

Caribbean Village Cafe Fine Caribbean Food

7 am to 7 pm • Monday to Friday 2646 Quadra Street (250)381-3363 (lookwww.facebook.com/pages/ for the big yellow sign across from the Roxy Theatre) Caribbean-Village-Cafe

Served with rice or n

Beef Curry $11.

Base: 1½ cup All Purpose Flour Cooked with south Asian Spice in s ½ cup Granulated Sugar Served with rice or n 1½ tsp Baking Powder cup Butter Curry Chicken $1 2Chicken Egg Whites on the bone cooked with gravy 1 tsp Vanilla Served with rice or n 1 cup Sweet Chocolate Chips

Chicken Biryani $1

Combine all ingredients, except the Chicken on the bone marinated with yo chocolate chips, and press into a 10 cooked basmati inch pan.

Sprinklewith chocolate chips rice. Served w over and prepare the topping.

KEBaBS

Topping: Beef Seekh Kebab (Ground beef grille 2 tsp All Purpose Flour 2 cups Low Fat Yogurt Chicken Boti Kebab (Two ske 2 Eggs Beef Boti Kebab (Two skew 1 tsp Mint Extract Kebabs served 2(Alltsp Gratedare Lemon Peel with Rice or Naan ¼ cup Cacao Powder

Beef Kebab Roll or Chicken Ke

Combine topping Beefingredients Donairand or Chicken D pour on top of the pressed chocolate Wrapped base. Bake at 250 for 70 minutes orin homemade until golden.

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Order your Take & Bake 12” Pizzas Today 1 Pizza $9.95 / 2 Pizzas $18 / 3 Pizzas $25 Expires 31/12/14

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Buy 1 Pizza & Get A 2nd (Of Equal or Lesser Value) For $5 Plus Tax Pick-up/Dine-in ONLY. Please mention this coupon at time of ordering. Cannot be combined with any other offers or weekly specials. Prices do not include tax. Offer expires Jan. 31st, 2015.

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Book your Catered Holiday Cocktail or Dinner Party starting at $199 Supplement the busy holiday season or start off the year right with healthy tailored personal chef services starting at $90 a week.

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Cook St & Fairfield in Victoria One could say the most impressive aspect about this densely populated hub in Mabecome y St Victoria would be its sense of community. Locals regular patrons and truly support their own, whether the Leonard St bakery, food markets, book store, restaurants, watering holes, coffee shops, or clothing outlets. It’s very possible to accomplish all of your shopping in this area adorned with beautiful older homes and tall lush trees. Here’s a Faithfuone holiday shopping challenge—pick l St neighbourhood or town from our community pages and spend an afternoon there to accomplish all your shopping.

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Sidney In a heartbeat I would make Sidney my home!

Its appeal of a slower-paced and friendly small town by the sea becomes further distinguished by its incredible shops and all the amenities of the city. The independent Mt Baker Ave designer boutiques, restaurants representing cuisine from around the globe, not to forget the quaint Star Cinema and a bowling alley on Bevan, ensures there is something Whout a family afternoon or quiet date JamesTry for everyone. ite Bwant night, and you might to call it your home too. lv Sidney Ave

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C H A RIT Y

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Redefining wealth for your well-being and your community.

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BY VICTORIA HOLMES, Inspirational Speaker, Writer, Life Coach

Feeling down and overwhelmed during the holidays can feel alienating and lonely. It’s a time of year when people seem to be overflowing with holiday cheer, which makes it even more difficult for those who feel like their wine glass is half empty. Some people who feel below-par do everything they can to avoid the holidays, while others mask their feelings and go through the parties and family get-togethers with a smile on their face but heaviness in their heart. They wonder what is wrong with them—why they secretly dread this time of year. Here is a light-hearted list of Do’s and Don’ts to help you through the holidays whether you are a holiday junkie bursting with sparkles and holiday spirit, or someone who tolerates the season with help from the kind of holiday cheer that has a brown paper bag over it.

Don’t over commit. Don’t expect every party, gift, dinner, to be ideal.

If you are comparing your experience to that which you think everyone else experiences over the holidays, you will always be disappointed. You do not have to participate in everything. Do say no to endless parties and to-do lists so that you can give yourself enough time to be prepared for the events and people that are important to you.

Don’t sweat the small stuff. There is nothing new about this advice! If your mother-in-law buys you a bathroom weight scale for Christmas, just assume it is what she would have wanted for a gift as well! If your house isn’t the brightest on the block, it’s okay. It will all happen again next year. Do think about what makes you feel all warm and fuzzy. Is it childhood traditions, or giving to those who may be less fortunate financially? Embrace those feelings and make sure they don’t get lost in the hustle and bustle of the season.

Don’t overindulge in alcohol and sweets. Remember that they are both

depressants. Do commit to a little time each day for movement and healthy food. It is scientifically proven that an extra walk around the block cancels out the extra gravy on your potatoes!

Don’t let people push your buttons.

Remember that negative people get their payoff from your reaction. Don’t be one of those energy sucking people yourself. (For example, you think Christmas is commercial and you don’t do New Year’s resolutions because they set you up for failure—we know—you don’t need to keep saying it every year!) Do know what triggers you and that you control how you react. Have a plan and an exit strategy! Assume that everyone around you just wants to feel loved and appreciated, even if they have a difficult way of showing it.

If you dread the holidays because all of the work, shopping, wrapping, cooking and cleaning falls on you – don’t do it! Do learn how to effectively delegate. Asking for help allows others to participate in the festivities. Decide what you want to ask for help with and be specific. It will not make you a less

than perfect host if you ask guests to arrive with hot dishes, nor will it make you a scrooge if you put parameters on what gifts you are buying, wrapping and giving. Enroll the help of teenagers, or someone you know who would be happy to earn extra money at this time of year.

Don’t dwell on imperfections or what you perceive to be wrong with your house, cooking or gifts. Above all, don’t dwell on what you believe to be your personal imperfections. You are lovable just the way you are, bursting buttons and all. You are cherished, valued and appreciated. It is the season of kindness and generosity, do remember to give the gift of self-love.

It’s the most treasured and useful gift you could ever give.

Victoria Holmes Inspirational Speaker, Writer, Life Coach Dedicated to helping you live a happier, healthier, more abundant life. Heal Your Life Workshops and Life Coaching

victoriaholmes.ca

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cents

HOW TO PICK A Financial Advisor

BY SAIRA WATERS Co-Founder of Dollar Divas

With the recent market volatility and RRSP season looming, now is a great time to take a step back and review your relationship with the financial professionals in your life. Maybe check in and see if your current advisor is still the right fit for you, or if you are not working with one, start looking into who would be a good person to have in your corner.

Before you start looking, get clear on what you want. Are you looking for the best returns possible or are you looking for someone to help you create a long term strategy to help you reach your goals? This will dictate the type of financial professional you should consider. When looking at a financial advisor to help you with long term financial planning, here are some key things to look for:

#1. Someone you actually like: A good financial

professional sees their clients at minimum once a year. If you dread this visit as much as you do the dentist you may need to re-evaluate why you chose with this person in the first place.

#2. Licensing and training: There are many different licenses that an advisor can hold and some require more rigorous training than others. Ask your advisor what licenses they hold as well as what their training has been. If your advisor can't or won't tell you these things it is a major red flag. Also, ask what types of continuing education they participate in.

#3. Someone who is upfront about their paycheque: Financial advisors can be paid in many different ways.

Some of the most common are fee for service, commission based and hourly rate. Recent legislation has made advisor pay far more transparent than in previous years so don't be afraid to ask, how are you compensated and how much? Be aware of anybody offering “free” service, unless it is a government sponsored program, someone is writing their paycheque and there must be a reason why.

#4. A wide variety of investment options: We have

all heard about the benefits of diversification so make sure that your advisor gives you that option. Be aware of advisors that offer a list of mutual funds that are all branded with their company name because chances are they are being told to push those funds even if they aren't good investments.

#5. A detailed written plan: When you are working with a financial advisor a great way to make sure everyone is on the same page is a detailed plan of the goals and the plan to achieve those goals. Before you sign on the dotted line, ask to see a sample plan that they have created for someone in a similar situation to you. Make sure that it is shows more than a simple printout of what investments are in your portfolio.

#6. A process: When interviewing your new advisor (or doing a review with your current one) ask them about the process they use with their clients. You want to look for an advisor that has a proven process that can be tailored to your needs. A proven process means that your advisor has had success in the past helping other clients meet their goals.

#7. Experience: The financial industry is rife with individuals

who get licensed and then realize they don't enjoy the job. You don't want to end up an orphan or a hand-me-down so make sure your advisor is going to stick around. If the advisor you like is a fairly new financial advisor ask about their other experience. Have they had 5 different jobs in 5 years? Are they brand new to the work force? Did they work in the financial industry before hand, just in a different role?

#8. A clean record: An advisor that follows the law is

important. This should be fairly obvious, check out your advisors track record before you sign on the dotted line.

#9. Focus on planning and goals: This comes back to

what you are looking for in an advisor, are you looking simply for the highest investment returns? If this is the case you are looking for an investment advisor, not a financial planner. A true financial planner will focus on helping you attain your goals and the different types of investments will simply be the tools that will help you achieve those goals.

#10. Clear and easy to understand: If you walk out of your advisors office more confused than you walked in it’s time to re-evaluate the relationship. Your financial advisor should be able to speak to you in language that is clear and you can follow. Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions and speak up if you don't understand.

It's your money!

There are lots of qualities that you can look for in a financial advisor.

At the end of the day this is the person you are hiring to help you reach your financial goals. Don't let someone talk you into or out of something you are not 100% comfortable with and listen to your instincts.

Saira Waters, REALTOR® with Royal LePage, is a co-founder of Dollar Divas, the Meetup group for women who want to be financially independent! Find us on Meetup & Facebook.

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Chemainus Many identify with Chemainus for the murals and The Chemainus Theatre, as the unique vibe to this delightfully interesting town. Further to these attractions you will discover an array of intriguing shops and eateries. You’ll find quality clothing shops from high-end to active and adventure wear, an impressive jewellery bead shop with the greatest selection and prices, vintage and antique shops, and everything in between. Don’t forget to visit Utopia Bakery for some sweet treats or any of the eateries listed on this spread.

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Feb 20 - Apr 11

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Apr 24 - May 30

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Elf: The Musical

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Nov 20 - Dec 31

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Ray’s Antiques & Furniture The Red Balloon Toyshop 308 Duncan St, Duncan, BC 158 Craig Street, Duncan, BC 250-510-8204 www.raysantiques.com 250-748-5545

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CHRISTMAS SALE begins Dec 6th, 2014 watch the local papers for details

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Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas!

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13 Spinning Ninny Boutique is a shop with its entire inventory made by the hands of the good people of Vancouver Island.

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Duncan Far more than a strip to bypass on the way up or down the island, if you HAVEN’T got to know downtown Duncan, your visit just became overdue. I suggest a Saturday morning and afternoon with friends to enjoy the year-round market while also taking in all the unique shops. The fabulous eateries will impress you as well as the old town Duncan charm. If travelling from the south, be sure to stop by Whippletree Junction too!

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ASTRO S OUL

horoscopes

ASTRO SOUL

horoscope

BY PSYCHIC MEDIUM ANDREA ZONNIS | www.psychicsong.com PISCES - PLEASURE

CANCER – ATTAINMENT

Home, beauty and comfort will take the limelight as you have been working so hard to achieve success. It’s here! Kick your feet up and relax, the best ideas come when you are enjoying life.

Your soft heart is filled with love and appreciation for all those that you cherish. Your time is your greatest gift, so use it wisely.

AQUARIUS – NOURISH

Some of you have been having a challenging month, the good news is that you are now overcoming these obstacles and moving gently to creating more time for friends and family. Creating and maintaining healthy boundaries will be good for your well being.

GEMINI – POISE

You always know just the right thing so say so don’t hold back. Speak your truth and balance your desires for the future with acceptance of the present.

TAURUS – REALIZATION

CAPRICORN – PROSPERITY

Your inner voice has had a lot to say lately, are you listening?

Comfort is wonderful thing, a rut is not. Take a bird’s eye view of your life to understand how the challenges you are facing will be your greatest victory.

The most successful people in life are those that can find a positive way to look at past disappointments. How have you grown? What did you learn? Let go and trust.

Everything you need is already here.

ARIES – SPARKS

SCORPIO – POSSIBILITIES

Your strong mind has been working overtime. Emotionally, be sure to separate what is yours and what is not. Peel off the layers and get to the good gooey stuff in the middle.

Fire is burning deep inside of you, inspiring you to action.

Keep going and don’t give up! Sometimes the obstacles we perceive aren’t really as difficult as we first thought. Set your intentions and move, move, move!

LIBRA – EXPANSION

SAGITTARIUS – EXCITEMENT

New opportunities for education, upgrading and learning new skills are approaching. This is your time to breakthrough old patterns and strengthen your direction in life. It’s never too late to teach an old dog new tricks!

If you keep chasing what's right around the corner, you'll be turning corners forever. Take time to allow the fruits of your labours to ripen, and then devour them when ready.

Remember, you make your own future, so enjoy it!

VIRGO – DEVELOPMENT

Fortitude and an attitude of success will get you everywhere. Watch for interesting partnerships in work and business. The seeds are planted but need love to grow, good thing you’ve got so much love to give.

LEO – LUXURY

It’s your time to get spoiled as the universe is conspiring to make your wishes a reality. Your generosity knows no limits so remember to save some for yourself.

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WINTER WONDERLAND: Where to Ski and What to Do in Squamish This Season

Making Memories IN THE

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AlmostFreeMagazine.com | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2015

One of BC’s best winter destinations just got better.

Brace yourselves for alpine adventures and neverbefore-accessed backcountry terrain as the winter season officially kicks off in Sea to Sky country.

Sea to Sky Gondola, Squamish’s newest winter wonderland reopens this week with all-new access to over 3,000 acres of backcountry terrain and winter activities for every age and ability including front and backcountry skiing, hiking, snowshoeing and tubing at the venue’s new tube park.

Single day passes are $34.95 for Adults, $32.95 for Youth and free for children five and under. Online discounts are available at www.seatoskygondola.com.

Ski resorts and lift lines may become a thing of the past after just one visit to Garibaldi Provincial Park where you’ll find 195,000 hectares of glacier-capped mountains, lakes and ancient forests. If you’re ready for a challenge, check out Garibaldi Neve, a 40km traverse connecting Diamond Head to Garibaldi Lake. Getting there is easy: Head North on Highway 99 past Downtown Squamish to Mamquam Road.

Turn right at Mamquam and follow that road until you reach the trail head. All vehicles are required to have winter tires, snow chains and 4-wheel drive during the winter months.

Some of the best Nordic skiing in North America happens just 50km north of Squamish in an area known as the Callaghan Valley. Ski Callaghan passes offer over 100km of trail access for beginner to expert skiers and snowshoers.

Callaghan Valley is also home to Whistler Olympic Park, the site of the 2010 Vancouver Olympic cross-country, biathlon, ski jumping and Nordic combined events. Nordic Skiing day passes are $25 for adults, $15 for youth and $65 for families.

Snowshoeing day passes are $15 for adults, $7.62 for youth, $37.62 for families and free for children six and under.

Midweek discounts available. For more information visit www.skicallaghan.ca.

Squamish is also home to one of North America’s largest congregations of wintering bald eagles that can be viewed easily throughout the winter at several spots around town.

Prime viewing usually happens at Eagle Run Park on Government Road. The Eagle Watch Interpreter Program, a volunteer-run community initiative, has been designed to help visitors better view and understand the eagles and salmon lifecycle. Volunteer interpreters will be stationed at Eagle Run Park every weekend beginning November 30.

For more information visit www.tourismsquamish.com/ activities/eagle-viewing.

Tourism Squamish has launched Countdown to Christmas, a complete up-to-date calendar of local events and activities taking place throughout the month of December. Visit www.tourismsquamish.com to plan your visit, plus take advantage of discounted room rates and packages.

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F IT NESS

tips

THE RESOLUTION FACTOR -

making goals work JONES

BY LOUISE HODGSON-

rt thinking of our New Year It is around this time that we sta 2015. In past articles I have resolutions and set out goals for als the SMART way – Smart, offered tips on how to make go goals stic and Timely – so that these Measureable, Attainable, Reali now make goals this time last year can be achievable. So if you did ess how you did. is the time to look back and ass

It is a good exercise to analyse your goals and see what worked, what didn’t and if it didn’t ask why. This way we can adjust our goals and be more realistic in the future.

If one of your goals was trying a new activity ask yourself honestly if you enjoyed it and if so how long you did it. Was it all you had hoped it would be? If you are a runner you probably set yourself a goal race – 10km, Half Marathon or even a Marathon – or even a Personal Best time. How was the training and were you able to avoid injury and run your race?

The biggest barrier to making successful goals is time. How often do we say ‘I don’t have time to run today, I am just too busy.’ So that 45 min activity gets put off and then it is easy to procrastinate and miss another workout and so it goes on. Other barriers may be work related, personal issues or just the weather (we all like to blame the weather after all!)

So as we see another year out and a new one in, here are some suggestions on how to stick with the plan.

Take a moment to write down your goals and – more importantly – make sure they aren’t the same as last year.

If one of your goals was to run a 10k and you did, then your next goal is to improve on your time. Be realistic – a 44

10% improvement is achievable. Or your others enjoy their own company goal may be to run more 10k’s – if so without the peer pressure. target the races you want to run so you can properly train and plan.

Consider the barriers that may impede your chances of achieving your goals.

Ask yourself why you are making While this may seem negative, we need resolutions. What is the intention? All to be realistic. If there is a particular goals should be for you so you may need time that you know you will be busy to remind yourself and write down why at work, consider that when you plan. you are doing this.

The ‘I don’t have time’ factor means you may not have time for a 60 minute endurance run, but you could fit in a 20 Don’t make a drastic change in routine - 25 minute speed workout which will when you set your goals. While that reap the same benefits. may seem odd (some may say that the whole point of making a resolution is to make change). But the resolutions Re-visit your goals every two months. likely to succeed are the ones that don’t Are you on track? Do you need to involve a major change to routine. make adjustments? There is nothing Perhaps you are already running but wrong in adapting your goals if you feel getting bored with doing the same something isn’t working for you, or if routine. Try cross-training or join one you have had a personal or work issue of the growing bike or triathlon groups. that may impact on what you want to You can certainly think out of the box achieve. The important thing is to be but ask yourself if you are comfortable honest with yourself and rather than with it. If you aren’t you are less likely abandoning the goal, change it up and to succeed. make it work for you.

Think about how you can realistically succeed with your goals. If you are a runner or cyclist are you likely to stay on track with others around you, or are you more focussed training on your own? There is no right or wrong way – we are all different, some prefer the camaraderie of being in a team, while

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2015

Louise Hodgson-Jones is a media relations specialist, working with events such as the GoodLife Fitness Victoria Marathon, TC10K, and Frontrunners Island Race Series. She also coordinates communications for PISE and the Pacific Cycling Centre, and writes for IMPACT Magazine and Canadian Running.

www.corsafit.com @LouiseHodgsonJo

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