Witness the love of the performing arts at our vibrant community festival! usic, voice, musical theatre, and dramatic arts. There's something for everyone t
ant to enjoy!
April and May 2025.
Tickets are available at the door of each venue—don’t your chance
Scan the QR code below for full details, including locations.
Join us for unforgettable performances throughout A ’t miss your chance to be part of this celebration of artistry and passion. concert schedules and locations.
Saturday, April 12 -- 6:30pm
Wednesday, April 23 - 7pm
Phillip T. Young Recital Hall
Phillip T. Young Recital Hall
INTERMEDIATE & SENIOR PIANO CHORAL
Wednesday, April 23 - 7pm First Metropolitan United Church
Thursday, April 24 - 7pm
Dave Dunnet Community Theatre
SPEECH
Thursday, May 1 - 7pm
Knox Presbyterian Church
ETHNIC DANCE & FIDDLE
Thursday, May 8 - 7pm
Friday, April 25 - 7pm
Phillip T. Young Recital Hall
JUNIOR PIANO & COMPOSITION
Friday, May 2 - 6:30pm
Phillip T. Young Recital Hall
VOICE
Friday, May 9 - 7pm
Phillip T. Young Recital Hall, Friday, May 9 - 7pm
Phillip T. Young Recital Hall
MARY SCHOLARSHIP
May 10, 2025 - 7pm
Phillip T. Young Recital hall
ROBERTO & MARY WOOD SCHOLARSHIP CONCERT SCHOOL DANCE
Spring is all about new life, new growth, new experiences. Every March, Mother Nature shakes off the chill, brings on the warmth of the sun and prepares for a season of blooming flowers, baby animals and buzzing insects.
These things work in harmony year after year to make our incredible world what it is. So why can it be so hard for us humans to start something new? We get so caught up in the day-to-day routine that we often forget that our “fresh start” is out there too.
It’s in our control. We can take a lesson from nature and start new.
As award-winning Vancouver Island jazz singer Edie DaPonte would say: “What are you waiting for?”
All we have to do is take the first
step. Admittedly, the first step is the hardest. We all have things we would like to do. Whether that’s decluttering and downsizing your home, starting a kitchen garden, moving your body more, exploring local markets and breweries or rekindling an old passion (like singing)—you can do it.
And it’s worth it. Imagine how your life could change if you finally called a realtor, learned to cook your own fresh meals straight from your garden, picked up a pickleball paddle or got up on a stage and performed for a crowd.
Maybe your bucket list contains other items like travelling, renovating your home or learning a new skill—you can do those things too. It all starts with one action!
When you really want something, it can take on a life of its own. While exciting, it can also be overwhelming. Your project or goal can loom large and seem to get bigger by the day, the longer you put it off, until it becomes less exciting and more stressful.
However, everything in life can be broken down into smaller pieces. Take control by breaking your fresh start into smaller manageable steps and then, do them—one at a time, step by step.
We can’t move towards something unless we are walking in the right direction, so take that first step toward your new beginning. What are you waiting for?
Stacie Gaetz
What Are We Waiting For?
Shine your light and stay forever young
Twenty-five years ago, jazz singer
Edie DaPonte and her husband asked themselves a powerful question that spurred their move from London, Ontario to Vancouver Island: “What are we waiting for?”
After her husband fought and won a battle with cancer when she was 40, the tenacious optimist with a love of music decided to follow her dream and move to the West Coast.
“My husband’s illness was our wake-up call,” she says. “We spent so much time in and out of hospitals and we finally said, ‘Let’s just go!’ And we did. It was the best thing we have ever done.”
Getting Her Start
DaPonte says she has been singing as long as she can remember and used to perform at weddings when she was in high school.
“I don’t know who would have ever hired me back then!” she says with a laugh.
After becoming a pharmaceutical rep in Ontario, she ran out of time to follow her passion. It wasn’t until about a decade after her move to BC that she rekindled her love of music.
“Around the age of 50, people started asking me to sing at parties in their homes, at wineries and at weddings,” she says.
When she started experimenting with singing in French, she says the audiences responded strongly and her passion transitioned from a hobby to a career.
“I was so on fire and excited about that music,” she says. “It was intimidating to learn but the things that are most difficult are often the ones that are the most worth doing.”
She recorded her first of five albums in 2011. DaPonte’s Under Paris Skies show, featuring the music of Edith Piaf, proved to be a fan favourite with sell-out shows throughout British Columbia.
With support from Creative BC, DaPonte released two new studio albums in 2019: her globally inspired Alegria and Under Paris Skies. Under Paris Skies was nominated at the Independent Music Awards 2020 for Best Tribute Album.
On Stage
Anyone who has seen her perform knows that DaPonte brings the element of surprise to every show. Her range and repertoire travel far and wide crossing genres and spanning multiple decades and languages.
She describes her style as “classic jazz with global influences.” She’s equally at home in an intimate lounge setting or on an outdoor festival stage, having established a reputation in the music scene of Vancouver Island and Western Canada as a dynamic and engaging performer. DaPonte brings passion, playfulness and an evident love of performance to her live shows.
Vancouver Island Music Awards awarded her with Jazz Recording
of the Year in 2017 for her original song “Island Rain” and nominated her as Vocalist of the Year in 2016. DaPonte’s original song “Ride the Wind” was nominated in the Traditional category for the 2017 International Portuguese Music Awards (IPMA). Young at Heart was nominated in 2016 for Best Album –Jazz with Vocals by the Independent Music Awards.
Emotive, playful and passionate, her voice lends itself perfectly to the wide range of music she loves to feature in her shows. She moves seamlessly from jazz to bossa nova, blues to fado, switching between English, Portuguese, Spanish and French numbers with ease.
DaPonte has performed at festivals including the Victoria Jazz Festival and the Vancouver Latin Festival and toured theatres across Vancouver Island and BC.
You’ll find her accompanied by the finest Victoria musicians, including
bassist and arranger Joey Smith. Together they create a wonderful atmosphere, engaging audiences large and small, drawing them in and rewarding them with classic numbers they love to hear.
“Joey is my number one collaborator and friend,” she says.
“We have done thousands of shows together. He cares about the music and the audience and we just ‘work.’”
Smith toured with the Glenn Miller Orchestra for two-and-a-half years and has written numerous arrangements for the Victoria Symphony. Currently, several of his arrangements appear on recordings by The Bills and The Marc Atkinson Trio.
Creative Process
DaPonte says although she is still performing gigs, she is concentrating more on writing songs of late.
“I sit down with a guitar and let the
songs come to me from personal experience,” she says.
“The one I am working on now is called ‘Sliver of Time’ and I think people can really relate because it’s about looking back at how far you
have come but also staying in the moment.”
She adds that the process of writing is incredibly personal and most rewarding when people connect with a song she has written.
“My favourite would probably be a song called ‘Little Town by the Sea.’ The Deep Cove Music Society uses it on their website, and it really resonates with people,” she adds.
“People request it at shows and connect with it because it is about loving the place you live.”
She says feeling the satisfaction of connecting with people through music in this way reminds her of the importance of “just saying yes.”
“The old adage that it is never too late to follow your passions, whatever they are, couldn’t be truer. Trust that you have something of value to share because when you feel passionate, you inspire other people.”
She adds that her inspiration comes from her fans, including a 97-year-old woman who makes the effort to follow her performances.
“She’s getting out there and getting inspired so what is anyone else waiting for?” says DaPonte.
“We are wired to fear failure as humans but what have you got to lose? What’s the worst that could happen? Shine your light because doing what you love will allow you to stay forever young in your heart.”
DaPonte invites readers to get inspired at her performance A World of Song at the Oak Bay Recreation Centre on May 9 at 7:30pm.
“It will be an unforgettable evening of music that spans continents and cultures,” she says.
Learn more about DaPonte, her work and her upcoming shows at edie.ca
Stacie Gaetz
is the managing editor of GRAND. She runs on exploring new and exciting places and getting to the heart of people’s stories. If you have a story she should know about, reach her at editor@islandparent.ca.
Photos: p. 7 Michelle Alger, Studio 282 Photographic; p. 8 Jo-Ann Erickson, Nuttycake Photography
THE
International
TEN
PR
EAGLE EYES
BARRACUDA
TRULY TINA
CENTREFIELD
John Forgerty & CCR tribute
80’S LADIES & ROCK CHICKS
Starring the multiple award winning Bonnie Kilroe
SYNCHRONICITY
Six-piece tribute to the Police
DEAD MAN’S TOWN
Bruce Springsteen Tribute
The Right Fit
Custom jewellery is worth more than it costs
It’s a catch in the throat, a sudden inhale. Occasionally, a smile creeps from one side of the mouth to the other. Sometimes, there’s a tear. A silence. Or a gentle nod of the head.
It’s a moment Victoria Jeweller Idar Bergseth has seen many times over 45 years.
In the world of jewellery, he says, it’s that moment both goldsmith and client wait for: the “yes.”
But what does custom-made jewellery signify, as opposed to items readily available in stores or online?
The answer is generally found in the value derived from making something unique, a one-of-a-kind gift—for a loved one or yourself—that will last a lifetime and be passed down to future generations.
“What you are giving this person is so much more than jewellery; it is an amulet,” says Bergseth.
“A custom-made piece adds hidden value to any creation. Whether it costs $300, $3,000, or $30,000, sentimentality is the true value of a custom-made piece of jewellery. The cost of materials doesn’t matter as much as the story behind it.”
Bergseth underscores his point by telling how one client asked to have an engagement ring made from gold he had panned from the Sooke River over four years, while another wanted a modern item that incorporated a stone bequeathed from her great grandmother.
Bergseth and his team of goldsmiths are often asked to repair or transform jewellery that has little monetary value, but is priceless in meaning to clients.
In one special case, a mother brought in a set of charred metal rods and asked Bergseth if he could create something unique out of them. The woman explained the rods were medical grade and had been inserted into her disabled son’s spine when he was a child. When her son passed away at age 40, she had him cremated and the burnt rods were among his remains. For her, the rods symbolized her son’s strength and spirit. She wanted to make something special out of them for her and her family to remember him by.
Bergseth took the rods and brainstormed a few options, eventually creating something for each surviving family member to wear, including a bracelet, a set of earrings and a tiepin.
“It was very emotional when we presented the pieces to the family,” says Bergseth.
“There were a lot of tears. Each person had a little part of him now. It was a wonderful thing to be able to do.”
Custom jewellery is often about making something special for other people, but not always. Bergseth says more and more individuals are designing jewellery for themselves, no longer content to wait on a partner to bestow symbols of affection.
If you want to purchase a custom piece for a loved one, Lance Glenn, design consultant at Idar Jewellers, encourages people to resist the urge to surprise their partner.
“I’ll often ask guys, ‘Have you ever surprised her before? And how did that go? Does she actually wear that cat sweater, or is it still hanging on your side of the closet?’”
Despite the glory moment for the gift giver, Glenn says it’s important to remember that a custom-made piece of jewellery should be a reflection of the person who will be wearing it, not the person who gave it.
Better still, custom-made jewellery can
be a collaborative process for couples, and no less special than the surprise moment Bergseth chuckles as he recalls how one customer managed to accomplish both:
“We had a couple come into the store one day, and she tried on a ring. The man asked to see the price tag—and asked if she liked it—and when she said yes, he got down on one knee right there and asked if she would marry him!”
Still, for those committed to designing a
piece of jewellery as a surprise, there are a few things to keep in mind:
• Most importantly, any item must be both beautiful and functional. Consider what the recipient does all day, and if the item you have in mind will be practical. Otherwise, it may end up in a jewellery box.
• Size matters, too. Rings presented as a surprise often need to be brought back for resizing.
• Then there is the matter of personal style and taste. What are your partner’s favourite colours? What is their skin tone? And what kind of jewelry do they already have, and wear most often?
• Finally, consider dollars and sense. How important is the life event you wish to commemorate, and what does your budget permit? The answer to both questions will steer you towards what is appropriate and affordable.
However, with a custom piece of jewellery, when the time comes to bestow the item, the story behind it will likely be much more valuable than any price tag could ever reveal.
Sue Dunham
is a freelance writer who loves all things natural and beautiful. She seeks out coffee, creativity and culture on Vancouver Island.
A Taste of Vancouver Island
Exploring local craft beer culture
Vancouver Island is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and deep-rooted food culture. But it has also gained a well-earned reputation for craft beer.
From small, family-run operations to well-established breweries that have been perfecting their craft for decades, Vancouver Island is a paradise for craft beer enthusiasts.
For those who appreciate a wellbrewed pint, the island’s brewery scene is
fabulously diverse. Whether you prefer a crisp European-style lager, a rich and malty porter or an innovative small-batch sour, there is something to suit every taste. Many breweries prioritize local ingredients, incorporating everything from islandgrown hops to kelp harvested from the Pacific Ocean.
Beyond the beer itself, visiting Vancouver Island’s breweries is a true experience! It’s a chance to meet passionate brewmasters, enjoy thoughtfully designed
taprooms and take in the relaxed island atmosphere.
Here’s your go-to guide to some of Vancouver Island’s finest breweries.
Phillips Brewing & Malting Co. (Victoria)
One of the most recognizable names in BC’s craft beer industry and beyond, Phillips Brewing & Malting Co. has been a pioneer in the field since 2001. Known for their creativity and commitment to sustainability, Phillips produces a broad range of beers, from bold IPAs to smooth stouts. Their in-house malting process ensures quality and control over every ingredient.
Must-Try: Blue Buck Ale—a wellbalanced pale ale with caramel undertones and a hint of citrus. phillipsbeer.com
Driftwood Brewery (Victoria)
A staple in the BC beer community, Driftwood Brewery is best known for its hop-forward West Coast IPAs and wellcrafted Belgian-style ales. Their beers often lean toward strong, bold flavours, making them a favourite among craft beer enthusiasts.
Must-Try: Fat Tug IPA—a full-bodied, citrusy IPA that has become one of Canada’s most celebrated craft beers. driftwoodbeer.ca
Vancouver Island Brewing (Victoria)
Founded in 1984, Vancouver Island Brewing is one of BC’s longest-running independent breweries. Their beers are smooth, approachable and highly drinkable, making them a great choice for those who appreciate classic, well-crafted brews.
Must-Try: Dominion Dark Lager—a Bavarian lager with notes of cocoa and coffee. vibrewing.com
Whistle Buoy Brewing Company (Victoria)
Whistle Buoy Brewing has made a name for itself with its thoughtfully crafted seasonal releases and small-batch experiments. Located in Market Square, its welcoming patio is a fantastic place to enjoy an afternoon pint.
Must-Try: Ice Cold Lager—fermented cold, transferred cold, conditioned cold, canned cold and stored cold—it’s the coolest beer in town. whistlebuoybrewing.com
Wolf Brewing Company (Nanaimo)
Wolf Brewing Company is a hidden gem, producing small-batch, handcrafted beers with a focus on rich, full-bodied flavours. Their warm, inviting taproom is a great place to enjoy a pint or two.
Must-Try: Golden Honey Ale—a light tasting ale flavoured with local honey. wolfbrewingcompany.com
Longwood Brewery (Nanaimo)
Longwood Brewery takes great pride in sourcing local BC ingredients, including island-grown barley and hops. Their beer selection is designed to be both flavourful and highly drinkable.
Must-Try: Telegraph Project—a pale ale with proceeds from the purchase going towards rebuilding Telegraph Cove on the North Island. longwoodbeer.com
Gladstone Brewing Co. (Courtenay)
Gladstone Brewing has established itself as a go-to spot in Courtenay. Their garagestyle taproom and classic beer styles make them a favourite among locals and visitors.
Must-Try: Czech Dark Lager—a satisfyingly smooth, toasty lager with a rich finish. gladstonebrewing.ca
Land & Sea Brewing Co. (Comox)
A newer addition to the island’s brewery scene, Land & Sea Brewing in Comox focuses on balanced, thoughtful beer recipes that highlight both local and traditional brewing techniques.
Must-Try: Supernova Sour—a dryhopped sour that is sure to hit the spot. landandseabrewing.ca
Beach Fire Brewing & Nosh House (Campbell River)
Beach Fire Brewing in Campbell River combines great beer with a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere. Their focus is on classic styles with a local twist.
Must-Try: Wheel Bender Stout—a rich, smooth stout with deep roasted malt flavours. beachfirebrewing.ca
Tofino Brewing Company
Located on the wild West Coast, Tofino Brewing Company produces beers inspired by its natural surroundings. Sustainability and local ingredients are a big part of their ethos.
Must-Try: Kelp Stout—a dark, fullbodied stout brewed with locally harvested kelp for a distinctive maritime character. tofinobrewingco.com
Ucluelet Brewing Co.
A small, community-oriented brewery with a warm and inviting atmosphere, Ucluelet Brewing specializes in wellcrafted, easy-drinking beers that reflect the rugged beauty of its surroundings.
Must-Try: King Tide—an elegant and well-balanced pilsner with an eight-week brewing period. uclueletbrewing.ca
Whether you’re enjoying a tasting flight in a cozy taproom, taking a growler home to enjoy on your patio or exploring new flavours at a local beer festival, Vancouver Island’s breweries provide countless ways to appreciate the art of brewing.
For beer lovers, a brewery tour of the island is more than just an opportunity to try new drinks—it’s a way to experience the passion and creativity that defines the island’s craft beer culture.
So, raise a glass, explore the local scene and savour the crisp refreshing flavours of Vancouver Island.
is a writer living in Victoria with her husband and daughter. She believes most problems can be solved with a pint of ale and a huge piece of chocolate.
More than Just Fresh Food
Fantastic Farmers’ Markets on Vancouver Island
Farmers’ markets have long been a staple of Vancouver Island culture, offering fresh, locally grown produce, artisan goods and a welcoming community atmosphere. But these markets are about so much more than just food—they’re places where people gather to discover handcrafted goods, listen to live music, explore unique art, sip on local wine and connect with the vibrant community.
For those who love supporting local businesses, exploring regional flavours or simply enjoying a relaxing weekend browsing vendor stalls in a scenic setting, Vancouver Island’s farmers’ markets are the perfect destination. Whether you’re on the hunt for handwoven textiles, small-batch spirits, gourmet cheeses or a lively social experience, you’ll find it all at these dynamic markets.
So, let’s dive into why these markets are more than just a shopping trip—followed by where you can find the best ones across the island.
Support Local Makers & Growers
When you buy directly from farmers, artists, and craftspeople, your money stays in
the local economy, helping small businesses grow and thrive.
Live Music & Entertainment
Many markets feature local musicians, buskers, and cultural performances, turning a simple shopping trip into a festive, community-centered experience.
One-of-a-Kind Artisan Goods
Looking for something unique? Markets showcase handmade pottery, woven textiles, intricate woodwork, jewelry, candles and perfect gifts or a little self-indulgence.
Locally Crafted Wine, Beer & Spirits
Vancouver Island is home to some incredible small-batch distilleries, craft breweries and wineries, and many markets offer tastings and direct sales.
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Shopping
Many vendors focus on organic, ethically sourced and low-waste products, making it easy to shop responsibly while reducing your environmental footprint.
A True Community Experience
Markets are the heart of island life, where
you can chat with local producers, learn about sustainable farming practices and soak up the friendly, welcoming vibe.
Outdoor & Accessible
Many markets are held in scenic, openair locations, making them a great way to spend a sunny morning while enjoying fresh ocean air and the natural beauty of the island.
Gourmet Food & Ready-to-Eat Treats
Many markets feature delicious, readymade food options, from wood-fired pizzas and fresh pastries to gourmet chocolates and locally roasted coffee.
Workshops & Demos
Some markets offer cooking demonstrations, craft workshops or farm-to-table experiences, giving visitors a chance to learn new skills while supporting local artisans.
WHERE TO SHOP
With so many great markets happening across Vancouver Island, there’s always something new to explore. Here are some of our favourite ones to visit:
Moss Street Market
A year-round staple in Victoria, this market features organic produce, artisan foods, handcrafted goods and live music every Saturday. It’s a favourite among locals for its strong emphasis on sustainability and quality craftsmanship. mossstreetmarket.com
James Bay Market
Located just outside downtown Victoria, this Saturday market runs from April to October and is a charming mix of fresh produce, arts, crafts and live music. jamesbaymarket.com
Esquimalt Farmers’ Market
Running for most of the year in various locations around Esquimalt, this market features farm-fresh produce, baked goods and live entertainment in a relaxed and welcoming setting. esquimaltmarket.com
Cedar Farmers’ Market
Set in a beautiful rural location, this seasonal market is a must-visit for fresh produce, locally made crafts and an authentic small-town atmosphere. cedarfarmersmarket.org
Qualicum Beach Farmers’ Market
One of the best on the island, this market follows a “Make It, Bake It, Grow It” policy, ensuring that everything sold is truly local. Open year-round on Saturdays. qbfarmersmarket.com
Comox Valley Farmers’ Market
Located year round in Courtenay and seasonally in Cumberland, these markets are a food-lover’s paradise with an emphasis on organic produce, fresh seafood, gourmet foods and handcrafted goods. cvfm.ca
Duncan Farmers’ Market
One of the largest and most well-known year-round markets on Vancouver Island, featuring over 150 vendors selling local wines, farm-fresh meats, artisan cheeses, baked goods and handcrafted wares. duncanfarmersmarket.ca
Salt Spring Island Saturday Market
This legendary market features incredible artisan goods, farm-fresh food, live music and a stunning waterfront setting. It runs from April to October. saltspringmarket.com
Tofino Public Market
From May to October, this coastal gem features local artists, surf-inspired crafts, fresh seafood and handmade goods, all set against the backdrop of Tofino’s stunning scenery. tofinomarket.com
Port Alberni Farmers’ Market
You’ll find not one, but two year-round markets in Port Alberni offering locally sourced honey, farm-grown produce, fresh flowers and artisan bread. albernivalleytourism.com
One of the best things about farmers’ markets is how they change throughout the seasons. In the spring and summer, you’ll find fresh berries, crisp greens and open-air performances. In the fall and winter, there’s an abundance of handmade holiday gifts, warm baked goods and cozy market vibes. So, grab a tote bag, bring a friend and take your time exploring the best of what Vancouver Island farmers’ markets have to offer.
Expert Advice for Downsizing Made Easy How to Declutter Before a Move
Decluttering before a move can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re surrounded by years of memories and belongings. It’s not easy to let go of things that once held value, but the truth is, too much stuff can make it harder to settle into a new space. You know you can’t keep it all and that’s where decision fatigue kicks in.
“Where do I begin?”
“How can I let that go?”
“Is there any value to that?”
Ready to Right Size?
Decluttering is a process that takes time, so don’t wait until the last minute. The sooner you start, the less likely you are to make decisions in a pressure funnel, which
can lead to feelings of regret. The earlier you begin, the more you’ll enjoy the process. The easiest transitions happen in proactive steps, downsizing in stages before it becomes a necessity.
Here’s some seasoned advice to get you headed in the right direction.
Step 1: Start with an Easy Win
The more you can clear out easily, the better. Begin with areas where clutter tends to accumulate—like storage spaces, closets or the attic. These are often out of sight, out of mind, which makes them the perfect place to start. As you begin clearing things out, you’ll feel more accomplished, and that sense of progress will give you the momentum to tackle more difficult areas.
Step 2: Focus on What You Want to Keep
This might sound counterintuitive but starting with the items you want to keep can make it easier to let go of the rest. If you already know where you’re moving, use the space in your new home as a guide. If you’re lucky enough to have access to your new space before moving, take some measurements and create a floor plan. By knowing exactly how much space you have, you’ll be able to right-size your belongings and avoid bringing things you won’t have room for. And if you’re moving before closing on your current home, don’t stress—there’s always the option to return for items you might have missed.
Step 3: Let it Go
Is the perceived value of the item you are considering real or sentimental? Get honest. If you’ve used and enjoyed it, then it has served you better than most items we accumulate. Your home is likely your greatest asset, and the time, energy and labour involved in sorting, packing, moving and managing these items can often end up costing more than their actual worth.
Rehoming Belongings Responsibly
1. Sell: Some items are worth the effort of selling them. The item won’t go to the landfill, and others get something that they don’t have to spend lots of money on. It serves all people involved. There are so many places to post items for sale; investigate your favourite app and go from there. Ideas include Facebook Marketplace, Varage, Kijiji, Used and Craigslist. You might even have a neighbourhood email list or Facebook group that can help you get rid of your unwanted items.
2. Recycle: I hate that we have to say this, but many families skip this step when clearing an estate or moving. It’s worth the added effort and the good Karma. There are many items that can and should be recycled: Styrofoam, paint, chemicals, batteries, pharmaceuticals, electronics, even eyeglasses. There are many places in Victoria accepting useful and often overlooked items. For example food, toothpaste and toilet paper can be directed to the Mustard Seed. Shampoo, conditioner and other hygiene products are accepted by Soap for Hope (even opened ones). Supply Victoria would love to take your gently-used craft and art supplies.
3. Donate: You have been blessed with surplus, and your unneeded items could be a great benefit to someone in need. This city is ripe with charities who would love to help rehome your unused stock; places such as Women in Need, Anawim House and Our Place Society to name a few. Perhaps you are connected to a community or church that could benefit from your generosity. It feels so good to give when you know your stuff is going towards a worthy cause.
At The Happy Nest
we specialize in helping people declutter, downsize and transition to new homes with ease. We’re here to make your next move less stressful, more organized and—most importantly—easier to manage.
The Power of Movement After 50 Training for Life, Not Age
The functions of your body at 50, 60 or beyond are no different from when you were 20. Your body still relies on strong muscles, mobile joints and healthy movement. So why do we let society convince us that aging means slowing down? The truth is, age doesn’t limit movement, lack of movement does.
The Psychology of Training: Move Well, Then Move More
“I’m not as strong as I used to be” is a common sentiment I hear from people over 50. But aging isn’t about decline, it’s about adaptation. Your body is still capable of incredible things. It’s just about adjusting your approach to support where you are in life now.
Training shouldn’t be about burning calories or lifting heavier weights, it should be about teaching your body to move well, whatever that means to you. Whether it’s getting out of bed without stiffness, lifting groceries without strain or playing with your grandkids, it’s about building longevity, resilience and confidence.
Aging doesn’t mean giving up on mobility, strength or agility. It means training smarter and focusing on longevity instead of intensity. The real goal is to keep moving safely, effectively and consistently for life.
Why Movement Matters
Movement isn’t just for fitness, it’s about function. Everyday tasks, like getting up from a chair or reaching overhead, depend on how well your body moves. If these activities are becoming harder, it’s not a sign to slow down, but a sign to learn how to move better.
Did you know that old injuries and stiffness are signals to reprogram your body to move more efficiently and confidently, not to rest more? Functional movement training isn’t just about efficiency, it’s about learning to stay strong, independent and capable of doing what you love for life. It helps build patterns that
support real-world movement, so you can move better, feel better and stay active on your own terms.
Training for Longevity:
The Three Essentials
The recipe for long-term strength and mobility is simple: Find activities that support each component of sweat, strength and stretch.
1. Sweat: Activities like walking or cycling to support heart health.
2. Strength: Activities like weight training or jujitsu to help build strong bones, stable joints and active muscles.
3. Stretch: Activities that aid in mobility and flexibility training to help keep joints loose and movement smooth.
Beyond Exercise: A Holistic Approach to Training
Training after 50 involves more than just exercise. It’s about training the whole person, mind, body and lifestyle.
• Recovery: Sleep and rest are just as important as workouts. Give your body time to rebuild and stay strong.
• Stress: Managing tension improves movement by reducing stiffness. Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
• Nutrition: Fuel your strength, mobility and energy with whole foods and balanced macronutrients. Aim for healthy, homecooked meals.
• Lifestyle: Emotional, financial and social stressors impact your body’s function. Movement should be integrated into your daily life, rather than something separate from it.
The Mindset Shift: Training for Your Future Self
Don’t wait for pain to force you into action. Your body is always adapting, and movement is the key to that adaptation. Focus on consistent, sustainable movement now to set yourself up for long-term success, rather than waiting for a quick fix.
Training Smarter, Not Harder
What does training smarter look like? It means moving with purpose, not intensity. Can you squat or hinge without strain? Are
your joints stable when lifting or carrying? By focusing on functional movements catered to daily activities and movement abilities, you’re setting yourself up for longterm success while minimizing the risk of injury.
Training smarter means:
• Working with your body, not against it: Honour where you are in life and build strength accordingly.
• Focusing on quality over quantity: Better reps, posture, and movement patterns lead to better outcomes than trying to lift the heaviest weights.
• Listening to your body: Recognize the difference between discomfort (growth) and pain (warning) and adjust as needed.
Your body isn’t a rulebook, it adapts as you do. Get creative, connect with your body’s sensations and refine what works for you.
Age Is Just a Number, Movement Is the Goal
Aging isn’t about stopping, it’s about training with intention. You’re not trying to be 20 again, you’re training to be strong and mobile so you can live with less pain for the life you have now. The goal shouldn’t be to push past pain or prove your abilities, it’s to stay active for the long haul.
Move for longevity, confidence and capability. Move well, live well and feel good in your body for years to come.
I will leave you with this thought: How can you create more daily movement in your life?
With 15 years of experience, Coach Rae of Impulse Fitness specializes in functional fitness, mobility and movement skills. Her approach combines sustainable training techniques with nutrition, recovery and stress management to help clients regain mobility, improve posture and build lasting strength and confidence at any age.
Tips for retaining the joy in life’s second act Stress After 50
You’d think that by the time we hit 50, stress would evaporate. Haven’t we earned a break after decades of juggling careers, families and life’s unexpected chaos? But somehow, stress sticks around—just in different ways.
Maybe it’s worrying about retirement, managing health changes or suddenly finding yourself as the “go-to” person for aging parents and/or grown children. Whatever the cause, stress doesn’t just mess with your head—our bodies are also impacted, showing up as tension, fatigue or that persistently annoying sleeplessness.
So, how do we shake it off? More importantly, how do we make sure stress doesn’t take the joy out of life’s second act?
How Stress Sneaks into Your Mind
Stress isn’t just about feeling anxious— it rewires the brain. Ever walk into a room and forget why you’re there? Or completely blank on a name you know you should remember? That’s not just “getting older”—it’s often a sign of stress overloading your brain and memory.
When stress persists, cortisol (our body’s stress hormone) floods the brain, making it harder to focus, stay emotionally steady or even get a good night’s sleep. Over time, that can take a real toll—raising the risk of anxiety, depression and even memory loss.
Life after 50 brings some big transitions. Retirement, losing loved ones, changes in health or even just feeling like your social
circle has shrunk, can leave you feeling more alone than you expected. Stress, left unchecked, feeds into those emotions, making it harder to climb out of the rut.
How Stress Affects Your Body
Stress shows up everywhere. Some people feel it in their gut (digestive issues), others in their shoulders and neck (tension headaches). Over time, chronic stress raises inflammation levels in the body, increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes and other age-related conditions.
Then there’s sleep—or lack of it. Stress turns your brain into an overactive to-do list just as you’re trying to wind down. And when you’re not sleeping well, everything feels harder—moods swing, patience runs thin and even minor problems feel overwhelming.
Breaking Free: Real Ways to Manage Stress
Good news! You don’t have to meditate on a mountaintop or overhaul your entire life to feel better. Small, consistent changes can make a big difference.
Move—But Make It Enjoyable
We all know exercise helps with stress, but not everyone wants to hit the gym or start running marathons. So, the trick is to find movement that feels good.
• Walk outside. Fresh air plus movement is a double win.
• Dance in your kitchen while making dinner. No one’s watching.
• Stretch or do yoga for five minutes before bed to release tension.
• Gardening? Counts. Golf? Also counts. Do what you enjoy!
Breathe—But Make It Easy
Mindfulness doesn’t mean sitting crosslegged for an hour trying to empty your mind. Sometimes, it’s as simple as taking
a long, slow, deliberate breath when stress spikes. Try this:
• The 4-7-8 method: Inhale for four seconds, hold for seven, exhale for eight. Repeat a few times.
• Take two minutes to just sit quietly— no phone, no TV, no distractions.
• Before bed, try progressive muscle relaxation—tense and release different muscle groups from head to toe.
Socialize—Even If You Don’t Feel Like It
Stress thrives in isolation. When we’re overwhelmed, we tend to withdraw—but that only makes things worse. Staying connected, even in small ways, keeps stress in check.
• Call a friend just because—not just when something’s wrong.
• Find a group—whether it’s a book club, a walking group or volunteering— being part of something helps.
• If you’re feeling stuck, talk to someone who gets it—whether it’s a friend, a support group or a therapist.
Sleep—Your Brain Needs It
If stress is keeping you up, it’s time to reset your sleep habits. A few tweaks can make a world of difference.
• Set a bedtime and wake-up time and stick to it—even on weekends. Especially the wake-up time, it’ll reset your natural rhythm.
• Avoid screens 60 minutes before bed. Blue light messes with your ability to get to sleep.
• Keep a notebook by the bed—jot down worries so your brain doesn’t have to hold onto them all night.
• Listening to something calming— audiobooks, white noise or soft music can work wonders.
Find What Fills You Up
Stress shrinks when you make space for things that bring joy.
• Pick up an old hobby or start a new one. Painting, writing, music, anything creative.
• If faith or spirituality is part of your life, lean into it. Prayer, meditation or gratitude journaling can be grounding.
• Laugh more. Go to a live comedy show, watch a funny movie, listen to a comedy podcast—laughter is a natural stress reliever.
Get Help When You Need It
If stress feels overwhelming, you’re not meant to handle it alone. A counsellor can help you work through it with practical tools and support. Asking for help isn’t weakness—it’s smart self-care.
Aging with More Joy
Stress is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to take over. With the right tools, you can navigate this stage with more ease and enjoyment. After all, these years are meant for living, not just getting through.
So, take a breath. Call a friend. Go outside. And most importantly—be kind to yourself!
Waypoint Counselling Network
offers a free matching service to be connected to the counsellor that best suits your needs and personal style. They also offer a regular newsletter that provides simple approaches to improve your outlook and reduce anxiety and stress.
Healthy Harvests
How Tiny Gardens Yield Big Rewards
What if your small space could produce more than just fresh food? What if it could transform your health, elevate your meals and bring a deeper sense of wellbeing? Whether you have a balcony, patio or just a sunny windowsill, you can create a thriving, biodiverse food garden that nourishes both body and mind.
This guide will show you how gardening—no matter how small—can yield a harvest far beyond food.
The Myth of ‘Not Enough Space’
A common misconception is that growing food requires a backyard. But thriving
gardens happen in apartments, on windowsills, balconies, rooftops and even tucked into unexpected corners of shared spaces. If you have a spot with light, even just a small window, you have enough space to start growing. One pot of herbs or a vertical wall of greens can change the way you experience food and your connection to it.
Small-scale gardening is about working smarter, not bigger. A few carefully chosen plants can provide fresh ingredients for meals, a sensory retreat and a sense of personal accomplishment. The key is to see potential where others see limitations.
Redefining the Harvest: More Than Just Food
A garden’s yield isn’t just measured in what you can eat. It shows up in unexpected ways—through stress relief, deeper appreciation for the seasons and even a newfound confidence in your ability to nurture life. There’s something grounding about caring for plants. Whether you’re pinching fresh basil for a homemade pasta sauce or watching pollinators dance around a flowering thyme plant, you begin to experience food as something more than just sustenance. Spending time with plants has been shown to lower stress, improve mood and build resilience. There’s a reason gardening is often recommended for mental health— it creates a rhythm, a cycle of care and reward that gently pulls us out of the rush of daily life. Even in the smallest space, a garden connects us to something bigger than ourselves.
How to Grow More Than You Think in Small Spaces
The key to a thriving small-space garden is maximizing what you have. Vertical gardening is a game-changer—using walls, shelves or railing planters allows you to grow upward instead of outward. Mixing plants that thrive together, like leafy basil under taller tomatoes, makes the most of every inch. Herbs are another smart choice, thriving in containers while offering fresh flavours and medicinal benefits.
Perennials, like strawberries or chives, are worth considering too. Once established, they come back year after year, making them an easy way to ensure a steady supply of fresh food with minimal effort. Whether you’re tucking edible flowers into a shared courtyard or turning an old crate into a thriving salad garden, small spaces offer more potential than you might think.
Your Health Is Rooted in What You Grow
There’s something powerful about eating food you’ve grown yourself. Not just because it’s fresher and packed with more nutrients, but because of the connection it builds between you and your food. A handful of homegrown greens or a justpicked cherry tomato carries more flavour and vitality than anything from a store. And the act of growing—getting your hands in the soil, watching a seed sprout, tending to its needs—is just as nourishing.
Gardening also brings us back to a more mindful way of eating. Instead of food being something we grab on the go, it becomes something we take part in. We start to notice the seasons, appreciate the work that goes into each harvest and celebrate the flavours that come straight from the soil. Even the smallest harvest has the power to shift our perspective on what real food means.
Your First Step: Start Small, Start Now
If you’re feeling inspired but unsure where to begin, start with one thing. A single pot of basil on your kitchen counter, a container of salad greens on your balcony or a few edible flowers in a shared green space. The first step doesn’t need to be big—it just needs to happen.
Once you begin, it’s easy to build from there. You’ll start noticing what works in your space, experimenting with new plants and finding joy in the small victories. Gardening has a way of pulling you in, teaching you as you go. And before you know it, you’ll be harvesting more than just food—you’ll be harvesting a new way of seeing the world, one that’s deeply connected, nourishing and full of possibility.
May your harvests be healthy.
Joshua Clae Wagler
and Edible Landscapes Design are a team of passionate professionals serving homeowners, businesses, farms and DIYers to design, install and maintain landscapes that nourish, feed and regenerate. Learn more at ediblelandscapesdesign.com
Imagine a future where every child realizes their full potential – where each young person can grow into whoever they dream of being.
The key to an empowered future? Mentorship.
When you give to our mentoring programs, you are directly investing in an empowered future for youth in our community. Local demand for our programs is on the rise – we need your support now more than ever.
Call me today and let’s discuss how you can be a part of something bigger.
Soap for Hope Canada
Providing hope and dignity through hygiene
Imagine not having access to a shower in over a week.
Imagine not being able to afford soap to wash yourself.
Imagine attending an important meeting without deodorant.
How would you feel?
Soap for Hope Canada is working tirelessly to ensure no one in BC needs to experience the embarrassment and shame that comes with hygiene poverty. A registered Canadian charity, Soap for Hope provides essential hygiene products and linens to community facilities serving vulnerable people. They do this by repurposing gentlyused products that would otherwise end up in the landfill.
“Hygiene poverty is a bigger issue than most people think,” says Soap for Hope Canada Founder and Executive Director Anne McIntyre.
“People think about those without food or shelter, but no one thinks of the effects if you don’t have access to a shower or deodorant. That is a reality for 25 percent of people. Many people are deciding between
food and rent for their apartment, or medication; hygiene items aren’t even on the list.”
Statistics Canada reports that in 2022, 9.9 percent of Canadians lived in poverty, with one in four children affected in 2020. Hygiene poverty, however, reaches beyond these statistics, affecting even those above the poverty line who must choose between other essentials and hygiene products.
Since 2015, the Soap for Hope program has expanded from supporting five community facilities in Victoria to over 500 facilities across BC and Alberta. A community facility could be a shelter, transitional home, street outreach service, food bank, school, low-income senior facility or emergency centre.
“We are helping people you may never have thought could need this kind of help,” says McIntyre.
“People who are too proud to reach out or who think someone else needs it more than they do.”
Soap for Hope started with a basic hygiene kit made from five
products they could repurpose from the hotel industry. These were individual-sized soap, shampoo, conditioner, body wash and body lotion. Organizers soon realized they needed to be the complete hygiene solution for other equally important and overlooked essential products and began purchasing items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant and menstrual products.
With rising inflation and rents, many seniors on fixed incomes are forced to cut hygiene from their budgets. The organization also supports children in schools, particularly those in food programs who most likely don’t have enough hygiene at home.
The pandemic highlighted the need to assist financially insecure families, leading the charity to offer products in three sizes—individual, mid-size and family—to effectively meet the needs of the community.
Volunteering
Volunteering at Soap for Hope Canada offers a unique opportunity to make a social and environmental
impact, whether at the warehouse or from your home. The program proudly hosts volunteers from diverse backgrounds and walks of life, fostering a positive and environmental impact.
“The people who volunteer here love it,” says McIntyre.
“We have a very high retention rate. There is such a good feeling here and you get to see the effects of what you are doing immediately. Join a supportive community to engage in great conversations, share laughs and gain hands-on experience.”
She adds that there are about 100 to 120 volunteers at the Soap for Hope warehouse in Victoria every week.
“Choose the task that suits you best! Whether you enjoy processing hygiene products and linens by sorting, squeezing, filling, washing
and folding, or prefer welcoming and assisting customers at Second Hand Hope Thrift Store, there’s a perfect role for you,” she says.
McIntyre says the oldest volunteer they have is 91 years old and they often have children, adults and seniors volunteering at the warehouse together.
“As I have hopefully helped this organization, they too have helped me,” says volunteer Mary Ann Belfry.
“I lost my beloved husband after years of him suffering with MS, this left a huge hole in my life and then Soap for Hope Canada happened. I’ve met so many fabulous people, and it’s wonderful to hear all their stories about their lives, which fills in my day and I appreciate and learn a lot.”
Five Hearts
Soap for Hope is collaborating with
three other organizations to put on the Five Hearts One Purpose event on June 14. The other organizations are Power to Be, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Greater Victoria Festival Society and the fifth “heart” in the title stands for community.
“It is going to be such a magical evening, full of surprises and mystery,” says McIntyre.
“Attendees won’t even know the location until the day of and will be bussed in from four different locations in Victoria.”
She describes the event as a “non-gala” and says it will include interactive fun that highlights the importance of collaboration and the message of working together.
Visit soapforhopecanada.ca to find out more about the non-gala, buy your tickets or learn how else you can help.
