A local shopping guide for Lindsay, Fenelon Falls and Bobcaygeon to help you shop local this holiday season.
FLOURISH MEDI SPA
168 Angeline Street North, Lindsay
Refresh yourself at Flourish Medi Spa where advanced skincare meets personalized wellness. Rejuvenating facials to professional cosmetic treatments.
Editor/Business Development: Rebekah McCracken
Contributors: Denise Waldron Mister Mystic Art Direction + Design:
Fournier
Please send advertising or editorial inquiries to Darren Hoiting at darrenhoiting@outlook.com or by calling 705-991-3188, or to Cara Baycroft by calling 905-431-4638.
Spend a day shopping in Lindsay 08 FEATURE
Spend a day shopping in Fenelon Falls 10
Christmas on the farm
GROOVE
Get to know the James Barker Band 24
12 BOOKS
FEATURE
Spend a day shopping in Bobcaygeon
FOOD & DRINK
Celebrate your heritage through food 20
CARNIVORE
CANVAS
Get inspired by nature with artist Jess Spagnolo 27 FEATURE
Cozy up with some great Canadian reads 26
HOROSCOPES
Words of wisdom from a local astrologer 28
Get festive with flavours this season 22 PET PARENTS
Meet Flower, the playful feline 30 22 COVER STORY
THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS
There’s a particular beauty that falls across our community as December tightens its grip. The soft hush that glistens over our rural fields and barns mixed with a dazzling glow of holiday lights in our urban centres really makes the festive spirit feel alive.
For many farm families in Kawartha Lakes, Christmas doesn’t reflect a leisurely week of drinking hot cocoa by the fireplace. Rather, it’s still a busy time caring for their livestock. But as you’ll read in Denise Waldron’s feature story, there’s still ample family fun in and around the work on the farm. This includes picking the perfect Christmas tree from one of our area businesses that will create memories to last a lifetime.
For many farm families in Kawartha Lakes, Christmas doesn’t reflect a leisurely week of drinking hot cocoa by the fireplace. Rather, it’s still a busy time caring for their livestock.
If you do have the opportunity this winter to enjoy some downtime, consider a short getaway in Kawartha Lakes –Eganridge Resort between Fenelon Falls and Bobcaygeon, and Saucy Willow Inn in Coboconk are both great choices.
Eganridge provides luxurious accommodations in an historic estate overlooking Sturgeon Lake in Kawartha Lakes. There’s on-site golf in the nicer-weather seasons, a full-service spa, and a conference centre with beautiful meeting rooms. Even in winter it’s gorgeous – and the trails still beckon.
Saucy Willow Inn is located on the banks of Balsam Lake. Originally built in 1878, it operated as a lodging house but now the main home remains on two tranquil acres surrounded by four cottages and six inn rooms with 200 feet of pristine water frontage.
Lastly, we hope you’ll love our Holiday Gift Guide as much as we enjoyed putting it together for you. Sarah Fournier, our designer extraordinaire, deserves much of the credit on this guide to shopping and eating locally. Remember, Kawartha Lakes retailers are here to serve you – and unlike Amazon or Temu, these are your neighbours providing you with the perfect opportunity to find unique gifts for your family and friends.
From our family at Kawartha Social to yours, we wish you all the best of the holiday season.
REBEKAH MCCRACKEN
This map is for graphical representation only. Please see the addresses on the right side panel.
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SPEND A DAY SHOPPING IN
LINDSAY
1 FRESH FUELL / NORTH WARD COFFEE
172 Angeline Street North, Lindsay
Fuel your day with vibrant, wholesome made-to-order wraps, smoothies, and bowls. And savour expertly brewed espresso and lattes, along with house-baked treats.
2 ARIYANA
449 Kent Street West, Lindsay
Enjoy authentic shawarma, kebabs, and house-made Middle Eastern favourites. Perfect for quick takeout, family trays, or a relaxed dine-in.
3 TRADEWIND TOYS & GIFTS
110 Kent Street West, Lindsay
Offers a charming, carefully curated selection of toys, puzzles, and gifts that spark curiosity and imaginative play. Pop into their friendly shop for expert recommendations and uniquely fun finds for every age.
4 OLYMPIA RESTAURANT
106 Kent Street West, Lindsay
A downtown Lindsay landmark, the Olympia Restaurant has been serving families since 1906. Enjoy their full service menu inspired by the healthy Mediterranean diet, along with warm hospitality.
5 KENT FLORIST
92 Kent Street West, Lindsay
Brighten any occasion with fresh, handcrafted bouquets and elegant gifts and baskets. Proudly serving Lindsay since 1985. Fast service and local delivery.
6
WALL IT WALL ART
18 Cambridge Street South, Units 4-5, Lindsay
Discover original canvas prints, framed art, and all-season Christmas décor, all conveniently located in the Cambridge Mall in downtown Lindsay.
7 LINGERIE LOFT
121 Kent Street West, Lindsay
Offers expert fittings and a carefully chosen selection of bras, lingerie, swimwear, and specialty mastectomy items to help customers feel confident and comfortable. For wardrobe solutions tailored to every body and need.
8 BROCK BUILT-IN
121 Kent Street West, Lindsay
Discover smart home comfort, from whisper-quiet central vacuums to motorized shades, home audio, and integrated security solutions that make everyday living easier.
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BARN AND BUNKIE
41 Lindsay Street, Fenelon Falls
A charming home-and-gift boutique offering curated décor, bedding, furniture, lighting, and seasonal finds that bring cottage-style warmth to any room. Stop by for friendly local service.
LOCKER AT THE FALLS
9 Lindsay Street, Fenelon Falls
Enjoy great food and stunning river-and-falls views on the patio in the heart of Fenelon Falls. Stop in for generous pub favourites, craft drinks, and warm local hospitality.
COUNTRY CUPBOARD
9 May Street, Fenelon Falls
A health food and bulk store that makes sustainable shopping easy with refillable jars, a wide selection of organic groceries, supplements, and household essentials. Pop in for their famous frozen yogurt during the warmer months.
CORNERSTONE FURNISHINGS
73 Colborne Street, Fenelon Falls
Pop in to see thoughtfully curated furniture collections, including Canadian-made pieces, staged room inspirations, and expert design consultations to help you create a home that feels both timeless and personal.
LIL WEE QUILT SHOP
8 Colborne Street, Fenelon Falls
Discover a bright selection of quilting fabrics, curated kits, and friendly expert advice, perfect for stitchers of every skill level. Get gift-ready quilting bundles to jumpstart shopping or your personal hobby.
COLBORNE STREET GALLERY
36 Colborne Street, Fenelon Falls
Discover original, affordable and local artwork, along with seasonal markets. Shop for paintings, prints, ceramics, and handcrafted gifts at their Holiday Art Market.
This map is for graphical representation only. Please see the addresses on the left side panel.
FENELON FALLS SPEND A DAY SHOPPING IN
A DAY
BOBCAYGEON SPEND
SHOPPING IN
This map is for graphical representation only. Please see the addresses on the right side panel.
1 BOYD HERITAGE MUSEUM
21 Canal Street East, Bobcaygeon
Step into the rich history of Kawartha Lakes at the Boyd Heritage Museum, where local stories come alive. Explore engaging exhibits and rare artifacts that celebrate the legacy of Bobcaygeon’s founding family and vibrant community spirit.
2 BIGLEY SHOES & CLOTHING
39 Bolton Street, Bobcaygeon
Find current styles at Bigley Shoes where fashion meets function with every step. Discover an unmatched selection of footwear, apparel, and accessories curated for quality, comfort, and Canadian flair.
3 AMICI PASTA BAR
53 Bolton Street, Bobcaygeon
A piece of Italy in the heart of Bobcaygeon. Fresh pizza, home made pasta, specialty wine. Drop in for friendly service, house cocktails, and flavourful dishes. Come as strangers, leave as friends!
4 GLOBUS THEATRE BOX OFFICE
90 Bolton Street, Bobcaygeon
Secure your seat for unforgettable performances at the Globus Box Office — your local hub for live theatre tickets. Conveniently located in Bobcaygeon, it’s your gateway to the best of the stage, all season long.
5 BOBCAYGEON BRITISH SHOP
3 King Street East, Bobcaygeon
Discover authentic British craftsmanship at Bobcaygeon British Shop — from waxed jackets to cozy merino knitwear, perfect for lakeside walks. Bring home a taste of Britain with their specialty foods.
6 KINDRED COFFEE BAR
59 William Street, Bobcaygeon
Start your day with handcrafted coffee and warm hospitality at Kindred in Bobcaygeon. Whether you’re sipping a latte or sharing conversation, it’s a cozy café experience rooted in community and flavour.
7 BOBCAYGEON BUTCHER SHOP
35 King Street East, Bobcaygeon
Savour the difference at Bobcaygeon Butcher Shop, where premium cuts and local meats meet expert craftsmanship. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ or a holiday roast, trust their team to deliver freshness and flavour every time.
CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM
BY DENISE WALDRON
Dan Vanderzwet, owner and operator of Potash Creek Farms, Omemee.
The first sound of Christmas morning isn’t carols or the rustle of gift wrap for Jeff Thurston—it’s the lowing of cows ready to be milked. While others are waking to stockings and big breakfasts, he’s pulling on coveralls and heading to the barn, where work doesn’t pause for the holidays. It’s a rhythm he’s come to love.
Thurston’s dairy farm is located east of Lindsay near Dunsford. They milk 100 cows using two robotic milkers, grow cash crops, and run a seed business. The seed business involves selling corn, soybean, and wheat seed to local farmers in the Kawartha Lakes and Durham regions. Thurston says his father started selling Pioneer seeds 53 years ago, and he took over the business about 12 years ago.
His quiet morning starts about 5:30 a.m. with coffee and a view of a sparkling tree surrounded by presents and decorations in the 100-year-old farmhouse. “I always like coming down Christmas morning before anybody else is up because it’s that peaceful quietness and a little bit of reflection.”
He notes he likes to contemplate and catch his breath in the hustle and bustle of the season before his day starts.
This fifth generation farmer can’t sleep in. “They (the cows) don’t care if it’s Christmas,” Thurston chuckles. He says because cows like routine, he does not change his alarm time.
As he heads to the barn to milk the cows, he hopes nothing has gone wrong overnight. Broken equipment, frozen water bowls or animals needing extra care are always a possibility.
“Anything can happen and it doesn’t matter that it’s Christmas morning — it all has to be fixed.”
Once back in the farmhouse, Thurston says, “It’s every man for himself, between breakfast and presents.”
Milking operations have changed over the years. Farms have become more efficient and modern. “Christmas now is easier than it was when I was a kid. We’ve got those robotic milkers, and you do have a little flexibility, but the cows are still being milked and whatnot.”
“Anything can happen and it doesn’t matter that it’s Christmas morning — it all has to be fixed.”
Thurston fondly remembers he and his brother waking their parents at 4 a.m. to help their dad get the chores done in the barn. “Maybe we did chores earlier than we needed to back then, just so we could get opening presents.”
Cows don’t take holidays, making Christmas morning just like any other morning in some respects.
Throughout the day, he shares special farm activities with his wife and four children, including snowmobiling through fields pulling sleds and GT snow racers, skating on a backyard rink when weather permits, and the children looking for kittens around the barn. His family spends time at his parent’s home, also on the farm property. At 3 p.m., the cows beckon and the milking process starts again.
Cows don’t take holidays, and neither does the milk truck.
Thurston watches for the driver’s arrival on Christmas Day, grateful for the shared understanding that farm work never stops. Before the truck pulls away, he hands over a plate of treats and turkey as thanks.
Christmas holidays on the Thurston farm can involve finding a tree and playing a game of hockey.
The evening sees the extended family join in for games and the chance to watch World Junior Hockey on Boxing Day.
Thurston is able to contemplate how Christmas provides a valuable opportunity for reflection and focusing on what’s important in life. “We make a point of slowing down and spending time with our immediate family. And we try and extend Christmas over basically the whole week and we don’t try and do anything more than we have to around the farm,” noting the fall harvest is hectic along with running kids around to hockey and other activities.
Cows don’t take holidays, and neither does the milk truck.
He cherishes this quiet time to appreciate his family farm heritage, with his 24-year-old son Kyle representing the sixth generation.
Growing up, Thurston recalls their dad taking them to find a tree on some farm properties they owned. “They certainly weren’t well pruned trees,” he chuckled. When he and his wife Nicole had children, she always liked an aesthetically pleasing tree. They would buy one and then stick it in the woods on a farm and then take the kids to “hunt” for one. “Not sure how old they were when they started to catch on that I wasn’t really chopping it down.”
You don’t have to own a farm to get the fresh Christmas tree experience. For Dan Vanderzwet, who is the owner and operator of Potash Creek Farms, his life did not start on a Christmas tree farm. The owner reveals he didn’t grow up with real trees but developed his passion after working at a Christmas tree farm in Pontypool as a teenager with a friend. “I grew up in a home that had a fake tree, and I had some friends that had real trees, and I always thought that was a really cool thing.”
This experience stayed with him, and after moving to Windsor, Ontario, he began selling Christmas trees purchased from other farms before eventually fulfilling his dream of owning his own tree farm and moving to Omemee.
Nearly 20 years on, the farm produces about 400-500 trees annually, offering both pre-cut trees, primarily balsam firs, and cut-your-own options that include various pine and spruce species. Most trees range from six to eight feet tall, with some pre-cut options up to 10 feet. The farm also features a “wild forest area” where customers can harvest much larger trees, some reaching 20 feet or more.
The operation is primarily family-run, with four to six people, family members and friends, helping during the season. The farm opens for business the last weekend in November and typically operates for three weekends, though they often sell out of trees quickly. They remain open until the last weekend before Christmas, provided they still have inventory.
Nearly 20 years on, the farm produces about 400-500 trees annually, offering both pre-cut trees, primarily balsam firs, and cut-your-own options that include various pine and spruce species.
Beyond selling trees, the farm offers complimentary hot chocolate, (a special blend customers love, according to Vanderzwet) or mulled apple cider to all the tree customers. They also maintain a campfire where visitors can gather, creating a community atmosphere.
Vanderzwet says getting a tree from a farm is a family experience. “There really are so few traditions left for families to do.” He adds people bring their dogs, babies, and grandparents and families often spend an hour or more selecting their perfect holiday tree.
Vanderzwet says, “fresh is best” when it comes to Christmas trees. He emphasis keeping trees away from heat sources and ensuring they’re watered daily, especially during the first week.
In terms of disposal options, the farmer notes some municipalities have tree collection where available. Another choice is returning trees to nature in backyards as wildlife habitat. He also highlights the environmental benefits of Christmas tree farms, noting they provide homes for wildlife while supporting local agriculture and jobs.
When it comes to agriculture, Kelly Maloney doesn’t just talk the talk — she lives it. As the economic development officer for agriculture in Kawartha Lakes, she draws on a lifetime of experience, from her upbringing on a beef farm to the one she calls home today.
She says while cropping activities typically slow down over the winter, daily chores must continue on livestock farms even during the Christmas season. Maloney emphasizes that farming operations are primarily family businesses, making holiday gatherings important despite ongoing work requirements.
Growing up on the farm as older children, Maloney notes she isn’t sure they always thought of it as an ‘opportunity.’
“We all came together for the big meal. But to be able to, everybody helped out with chores. We got up early, got the chores done so we could take the day and celebrate usually with a really big meal.”
She says that for families that aren’t farming, they’re enjoying the benefits of the production from the farms. “We have a really strong agricultural sector here. So families are able to enjoy the fruits of production here from Kawartha Lakes.”
For area farmers, Christmas comes with tinsel and turkey wrapped in chores and gratitude — a life both demanding and grounded.
Make your own winter wreath, outdoor urn or festive table centerpiece in one of our classes! Give us a call to book your spot or book your own private class
Getting Christmas-ready with a new tree from Potash Creek Farms.
KS
Denise Waldron is a writer-atlarge for Fireside Publishing House family of magazines.
RECIPE REVIVAL
CELEBRATING OUR HERITAGE
THROUGH FOOD
BY LAURA LOVE
All photos: Sienna Frost.
Kawartha Lakes is a region steeped in history, shaped by Indigenous heritage, waves of immigration, agricultural traditions, industrial development, and the abundance of its natural landscape. These influences have created a vibrant culinary culture, full of unique and memorable food stories that deserve to be celebrated and shared.
Recipe Revival is a community initiative that brings these stories to life. By showcasing historical recipes from Kawartha Lakes archives – alongside cherished submissions from local residents – this program highlights the rich heritage behind our food and introduces delicious new recipes for everyone to enjoy.
We invite all current residents of Kawartha Lakes – whether you’ve just moved here or your family has called this place home for generations – to share a recipe that holds a special story or meaning for you. Your contribution becomes part of the Recipe Revival collection, preserving and celebrating the diverse culinary traditions that make our community unique.
Do you have a recipe with a meaningful story? Whether it’s a family tradition, a dish rooted in local history, or a creative take on a classic, we want to hear from you.
To submit a recipe, email Laura Love at llove@kawarthalakes.ca
Laura Love, economic development officer – curatorial services, with her great grandfather’s gingerbread recipe.
Gingerbread
Fredericton, New Brunswick
This is my great grandfather, Edward ‘Curtis’ Leslie of Stanley, New Brunswick
Born in 1899 to John Robert Leslie and Laura Wheaton Jones Edward spent the majority of his childhood and early adulthood helping his father and brothers on the farm, though the story that has been passed through the family is that he enjoyed baking from an early age
On August 18, 1926, Edward married Annie Louise Scott in Dumfries, New Brunswick Their marriage certificate shares that he turned what he enjoyed into a profession and was a ‘chef’ in Fredericton at this time
Edward and Annie had four children: Alden Edward, Eldon Frederick, and twins, Audrey Louise and Eileen Laura, my grandmother
In the early 1940s Edward opened his own bakery in the shed behind his house in Fredericton He ran this bakery until his death in 1966.
Little did he know that his many recipe books would be passed down through his family, and end up in the hands of his great-granddaughter, who cherishes them as much as he did
Recipe
Submitted by Laura Love
Ingredients:
½ cup sugar
1½ cup butter or shortening
1 cup molasses
1 egg
2 ½ cups flour
1 ½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon ginger
½ teaspoon cloves
½ teaspoon salt
Lastly, pour in 1 cup of hot water
Mix well
Pour batter into a 9 x 9 well greased pan for 40- 45 minutes Check the center with a tooth pick and when it comes out clean, let it cool Top with whipped cream
FESTIVE FLAVOURS FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON
When it comes to Lindsay’s culinary community you’ll find Farmer’s Butcher Shop — a full-service, locally rooted butcher that treats every cut as a conversation with the farm it came from. More than a storefront, Farmer’s is a bridge between the people who raise our food and the families who bring it to the table. Their philosophy is simple: ethically raised, locally sourced meats handled with care and respect, so every roast, chop, and grind tells a story of place and season.
Autumn and winter invite heartier plates, and Farmer’s answers with a pantry of possibilities with flavours of the season. Their counter showcases grass-fed, aged beef, delicious lamb, and seasonal game that pair perfectly with the shop’s curated lineup of rubs, seasonings, and finishing salts. Whether you’re chasing the warm smoke of maple and hickory, the herbaceous lift of sage and rosemary, or something a little spicier, you’ll find blends engineered to amplify each cut’s best traits. These seasonings don’t mask — they translate the meat’s character into something memorable and distinctly local.
Local residents and seasonal visitors have long noticed Farmer’s commitment to community and quality. From sustaining family farms and nurturing local food networks, they work to strengthen the region’s agricultural future. That connection shows up in the flavour of every prepared item: house-made sausages with fragrant spices, slow-roasted braises that melt at the fork, and marinated favourites that make family dinners feel like celebrations. Farmer’s isn’t just selling ingredients — they’re offering seasonally smart solutions and the know-how to use them.
“Farmer’s Butcher Shop is more than just a place to buy meat — it’s the place where family meals begin.”
– MATT DE VRIES
Trust is earned at the counter, and Kawartha Lakes has given its trust in spades — customer reviews celebrate friendly, knowledgeable staff and consistent quality, making Farmer’s a five-star local favourite for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. The team will custom cut for your recipe, advise on cooking times and pairings, and assemble freezer packs for busy weeks or special gatherings. Their service turns questions like “What should I cook this holiday?” into confident answers.
If you’re planning for your seasonal menu, let Farmer’s be the backbone. Fresh turkey or locally raised beef are great choices, finished with the perfect rub that brings the holidays into focus. For festive feasts, lean on their custom orders and seasoning kits to make entertaining uncomplicated and unforgettable. Farmer’s Butcher Shop brings integrity, flavour, and community-minded expertise to every order — the kind of place where your meal becomes a celebration of local land, local hands, and the flavours of the season.
— Kawartha Social
DON’T FORGET: PREORDER YOUR TURKEY, HAM, OR PRIME RIB FOR THE HOLIDAYS
3 Commerce Place Lindsay, ON
James Barker. Submitted photos.
ONE OF US GOT A CHAIN IF YOU GET STUCK ONE OF US GOT A COOLER FULL OF COLD BUD IN THE BACK OF HIS TRUCK
AND IF THAT SOUNDS LIKE YOU, THEN YOU MIGHT BE ONE OF US.
KAWARTHA SOCIAL: You’ve got a new album out that seems to be doing well. What has changed within the band’s sound or approach?
JAMES BARKER: This is the first full-length album we’ve had the opportunity to make, and I think that in itself sets this apart from anything we’ve done in the past. Since it’s not just one single at a time, we got to pick a batch of songs that complement one another, and decide which songs work together. It became more about what the songs say as a batch, as apposed to what each songs say individually.
KAWARTHA SOCIAL: Given your last video was unabashedly local -- featuring downtown Woodville in such a prominent way -- it’s clear you haven’t walked away from your roots like some bands do. What keeps you grounded to Kawartha Lakes, even when you’re far from home?
JAMES BARKER: We’re proud of where we come from. We’re fortunate to have been raised in communities that have supported us since day one, and we’ll never lose sight of that. Especially with a song like One of Us, which was literally written about the people we grew up with in Woodville.
KAWARTHA SOCIAL: What song is your favourite on this album and why?
JAMES BARKER: All of us in the band have different favourites, and honestly those might even change week to week, but I think right now mine is One Of Us. It’s the most authentic song I’ve ever written and seeing people react to it at shows has only reaffirmed that we did something special when we made this one.
KAWARTHA SOCIAL: During a time of great division, One of Us strikes me as a unifying song -- or at least a plea for everyone to work a little harder to stay united. Did you have the current political climate in mind when that was written?
JAMES BARKER: To be totally honest, we didn’t think that hard about it when we wrote this song, but the theme kind of just came through on it’s own. I guess we kind of wrote it wanting to include as many different types of people as possible, but it’s funny how sometimes a good song will go even further and deeper than you intended it to. I think that only comes when you write a song from the heart.
Stream their music on your favourite platform
The James Barker Band is from Kawartha Lakes.
— JAMES BARKER BAND
COZY WINTER READS...
THE TORTOISE’S TALE BY KENDRA COULTER
In The Tortoise’s Tale, a century of American history unfolds through the eyes of Magic, a giant tortoise with a keen sense for music, edible flowers, and human emotion. Uprooted from her ancestral home and placed in a lavish California estate, Magic becomes a quiet witness to sweeping societal change. Her bond with Takeo, a gentle gardener, and Lucy, a spirited young girl, deepens her understanding of love, loss, and connection. As the estate evolves into a playground for moguls, politicians, and rock stars, Magic observes the rhythms of human ambition and vulnerability. Through decades of transformation, from jazz-filled evenings to Hollywood excess, she remains a steadfast narrator—wise, whimsical, and deeply empathetic. Kendra Coulter’s debut novel is a lyrical meditation on resilience, compassion, and the ties that bind all living beings. A soulful journey for fans of Remarkably Bright Creatures, this is a story of hope told from an unforgettable perspective.
HOW MY DOG SAVED MY LIFE BY CATE COCHRAN
This book explores the profound bond between humans and dogs, showcasing remarkable stories of canine empathy and courage. From sensing danger to providing timely comfort, dogs possess an uncanny ability to understand human needs, often surpassing language.
How My Dog Saved My Life recounts astonishing tales of dogs rescuing people from burning buildings, finding help after car crashes, and guiding rescuers through treacherous conditions. Beyond dramatic rescues, the book highlights the everyday ways dogs improve lives, particularly as service animals.
Meet incredible dogs whose unwavering commitment transforms their owners’ worlds, exemplifying the enduring and deeply impactful connection between humans and their canine companions. A heartwarming read for all dog lovers, offering a deeper appreciation for these exceptional animals.
NAMED OF THE DRAGON BY SUSANNA KEARSLEY
An enthralling novel of love, lies, and loyalty, literary agent Lyn Ravenshaw seeks solace in Wales during the Christmas holidays, hoping to escape haunting nightmares stemming from a personal tragedy. Invited by one of her authors, she finds herself near the ruins of an ancient tower, where she encounters Elen, a young widow fearful for her infant son’s safety.
Elen inexplicably sees Lyn as the child’s protector, drawing her into a world of haunting legends and dangerous prophecies. Teaming up with a reclusive playwright, Gareth Gwyn Morgan, Lyn delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding Elen and the tower.
As her dreams intensify, Lyn suspects they hold the key to both Elen’s fears and her own past, uncovering secrets of love, lies, and loyalty set against the backdrop of early Jacobite rebellions.
INVISIBLE PRISONS BY LISA MOORE
Based on a true story, Lisa Moore’s Invisible Prisons recounts Jack Whalen’s harrowing experience at a Newfoundland reform school. Subjected to abuse and solitary confinement as a teen, Jack’s resilience shines through. This collaboration between Moore and Whalen unveils the atrocities he faced and his subsequent path to redemption through love and family.
His daughter, Brittany, driven by her father’s suffering, became a lawyer to fight for justice, now working on a lawsuit involving Jack’s case. Echoing the horrors of Mount Cashel and residential schools, this story exposes a failing paternalistic system and society’s indifference.
What distinguishes this narrative is the powerful love story between Jack and his wife, Glennis, who helped him heal and his daughter who is on a mission to heal the injustices of the past. Moore’s vivid storytelling brings every character and moment to life.
MOST OF MY INSPIRATION COMES FROM A COMBINATION OF NATURE, LIFE,
AND STORIES.
KAWARTHA SOCIAL: Where are you from?
JESS SPAGNOLO: I grew up in Toronto as a first-generation Canadian to immigrant parents from Mexico and Italy. I’ve lived in Lindsay since 2019.
KAWARTHA SOCIAL: How did your interest and career in art begin?
JESS SPAGNOLO: My interest in art began as a young child when I would observe (and copy) my older sister, who is also an artist. I went to York University for a bachelor’s in fine arts but I later had a change of heart. This change ended up with me pursuing music instead at Seneca Polytechnic. While studying, I was hired on as a secondary painter for a Toronto-based mural company, where I ended up working for seven years. My time working as a muralist assistant reignited my passion for art. I ended up leaving the company in 2019 when I married and moved to Lindsay. The following year, when the pandemic took place, I launched my own mural business.
KAWARTHA SOCIAL: What gives you inspiration?
JESS SPAGNOLO: Most of my inspiration comes from a combination of nature, life, and stories. I love how you can find so much beauty in creation. Something that may be so plain to the eye, like a marigold flower, has layers and layers of petals, and each one has different shape or texture and shade. As a visual person, I also find inspiration in children’s books and stories.
KAWARTHA SOCIAL: What is your preferred medium?
JESS SPAGNOLO: I love working with acrylic paint when I am painting on canvas. But I also enjoy creating digital art because I love how efficiently you can create a world at the tip of your fingers.
Jess Spagnolo with some of her art, including the wall behind her.
Sienna Frost.
KAWARTHA SOCIAL: Tell us about your art that is available to see in the community?
JESS SPAGNOLO: You can see my murals around Lindsay! When you’re walking along the trail under the Rainbow bridge (on the Logie Street side), or when you’re dining at Ziggy’s Fish & Chips. You can also see one of my murals when you’re visiting Bare Skinn Wellness Spa, or when you’re hanging out at the skatepark behind the BGC Warehouse. If you’re ever inside the BCG building, you can find three of my murals around the building. My most recent mural will greet you at the entrance of Ampere.
KAWARTHA SOCIAL: Do you have any favourite artists? If so, what do you love about their work?
JESS SPAGNOLO: When it comes to historic artists, I love Vincent Van Gogh. I admire the fine details that went into the paintings. Lawren Harris is another I admired for his work’s composition and his intricate eye for painting lighting. A current artist I admire is an American artist by the name of Dimitra Milan, whose paintings have inspired my love for abstract realism.
For more info contact Jess at: jxss.co | jspag.art@gmail.com
Photos:
IN YOUR STARS
BY MISTER MYSTIC,
an astrologer living in the Kawartha Region.
ARIES
MARCH 21 - APRIL 19
A burst of energetic clarity arrives early in the month — channel it into finishing stalled projects rather than starting new ones. Expect conversations to open up after December 11 as Mercury in Sagittarius loosens rigid thinking; use that to pitch bold ideas (maybe to Launch Kawartha?) and request the support you need. Write one realistic 90-day plan and commit to two measurable steps before year-end.
CANCER
JUNE 21 - JULY 22
Early December asks you to tend home and emotional foundations; the Full Moon in Gemini can surface communication issues with close people that, when addressed, lighten your load. Mars into Capricorn brings disciplined energy to career or public duties after December 15. Use the Capricorn New Moon energy at month’s end for family stability going into the new year. How about a cross-country ski trip in the north part of Kawartha Lakes with the fam?
LIBRA
SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 22
Relationship themes dominate — expect clarity and possibly a turning point around the Full Moon in Gemini on December 14. Is it time to get serious with that Fenelon Falls person you met? Mercury in Sagittarius encourages honest, hopeful dialogue starting December 11. Bring perspective rather than piling on blame. With Venus entering Capricorn on December 24, commit to practical demonstrations of care (a shared budget, scheduled check-ins) that build trust into the new year.
CAPRICORN
22 - JANUARY 19
This is your month to own structure: Mars arrives December 15 and the Sun and Venus join Capricorn on December 21 and 24, intensifying drive, visibility, and relationship commitments. Maybe it’s time to plan the building of your dream home in Bobcaygeon? Use the Full Moon in Gemini to clear misunderstandings about expectations so your work can proceed without distraction.
TAURUS
APRIL 20 - MAY 20
December’s mood asks you to balance comfort with forward motion: practical responsibilities take priority once Mars moves into Capricorn on December 15. Financial and career conversations become more direct around the Full Moon in Gemini on December 14; use it to clarify contracts and renegotiate terms if necessary. If you need to, head over to Wards Lawyers and get some advice.
LEO
JULY 23 - AUGUST 22
Creative impulses are lively early on; lean into collaborative projects that let you shine verbally as Mercury fuels expansive speech from December 11. The Gemini Full Moon on December 14 may spark some creative work. What about trying out for a local theatre production at Globus? As Saturn’s practical season intensifies with Sun and Venus in Capricorn, choose one idea to refine and protect rather than scattering your energy.
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 23 - NOVEMBER 21
December nudges you toward visible progress in career and reputation as Mars moves into Capricorn on December 15. The Full Moon in Gemini may highlight public communications or a short-term contract that needs attention; address loose ends quickly. Late-month Capricorn energy favours disciplined investment in professional capital. The folks at MNP might be able to help.
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 20 - FEBRUARY 18
December asks you to translate ideals into systems. Mercury in Sagittarius helps you speak your vision with contagious optimism starting December 11. If you haven’t joined a local service club yet, now would be a great time. The Full Moon in Gemini on December 14 can surface a choice between short-term novelty and deeper commitments — pick what serves long-term growth.
GEMINI
MAY 21 - JUNE 20
The Full Moon on December 14 is your emotional spotlight — truth-telling and clearing misunderstandings bring relief and new momentum. Mercury in Sagittarius from December 11 gives you fresh, big-picture language; frame your ideas simply and ambitiously when networking at that local Chamber meeting. Later in the month multiple planets in Capricorn asks you to translate talk into tangible results: set one practical milestone tied to a relationship or project.
VIRGO
AUGUST 23 - SEPTEMBER 22
This month emphasizes visible results from steady effort: Mars entering Capricorn on December 15 gives you stamina for slow, important work. Communication shifts around December 11 help you phrase requests with optimism and clarity; use that to reset expectations at work. The Capricorn New Moon on December 29 is perfect for starting a new good habit – think about joining Fortitude Fitness in Lindsay.
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 22 - DECEMBER 21
Mercury returns to your sign on December 11 and lightens thinking and encourages travel. Forget the U.S. – if leaving Kawartha Lakes, how about Europe? The Full Moon in Gemini on December 14 calls you to balance curiosity with clarity: choose which of many interests you’ll actually follow through on this winter. As the Sun and Venus enter Capricorn, stabilize a promising idea with a realistic budget.
PISCES
FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20
This month emphasizes inner clarity and steady support. Book that business lunch at the Olympia Restaurant or Bistro 93. The Full Moon in Gemini may bring a conversation that frees up mental space so you can rest and refocus on priorities. Mars into Capricorn on December 15 gives you the endurance to finalize outstanding tasks and protect emotional boundaries.
PET PARENTS
CUTEST MOMENT: When I go to see Flower in the tack room in our barn, I can catch her lounging in the funniest position. Her paw may hang over her cat bed, or she is lying sideways or backwards. It’s always a surprise and it’s never the same.
SPECIAL TALENTS OR TRICKS: Flower is the best assistant. She loves to be wherever I am and follows me around while I’m working on our farm. If I’m gardening, she’s under the wheelbarrow. If I am piling wood, she’s laying on my gloves or sits in my small wagon. During break time, she’ll lay on my lap or be sprawled out beside me. She always meows back when I’m talking to her, and her purr is very loud.
MOST MISCHIEVOUS MOMENT: Flower likes to climb up high on the rafters inside the barn, about 16 feet up. She can of course get down on her own, but she looks down and meows like, ‘’Are you coming up to join me?”
IF FLOWER COULD TALK, WHAT WOULD SHE SAY? I love you and thanks for loving me back. She’d ask, “why are you pointing that phone at me again?” I enjoy taking her picture and she’s always ready… the purrfect model.
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Email us at info@ lindsayadvocate.ca
GRACE KING OF BOBCAYGEON HAS BEEN FLOWER’S PET PARENT FOR THE LAST FIVE YEARS.
ALL PHOTOS: GRACE KING.
A strong sense of community matters to Jeff Todd and his family. It’s why they support the Ross. Whether you’ve lived here all your life, or are new to Kawartha Lakes, we all count on Ross Memorial Hospital.
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