Southpoint Living - Summer 2022

LIVING

Southpoint

FREE

SUMMER 2022

A lifestyle magazine for Kingsville, Leamington, Wheatley and surrounding area

When you want results...

TASHA SLATER Realtor

519.796.3102

buyorsellwithtasha@gmail.com

Contents

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16

18

6 What’s Hot 7 On The Cover 8 Long-Lasting Summer Makeup 10 4 Looks To Try This Summer 11 Suit Up 12 Bringing The Indoors Out 13 Floral Hues 14 Composting 101 15 Ways To Make Your Diet More Nutritious 16 Meal Planning 18 Fields Of Dreams 20 Modern Wedding 22 My Favourite Things: Samantha George 23 Pairs Well With...

24 Be Their Guest 26 Great Destinations For A Girls Trip 27 Camping Tips For Beginners 28 Keeping Up With The Mascarins 30 The Importance of Friend Therapy 31 How Music Benefits Kids 32 Keeping An Eye On Your Skin 33 Healthy Ways To Alleviate Stress 34 Made Local

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20 Southpoint Living | 3

Summer Ready LOLA Sparkling Rosé, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc and Secco are now available in individual 250ml aluminum bottles.

PORTABLE • RESEALABLE • RECYCLABLE

Sip into summer with LOLA

Please Enjoy Responsibly.

www.peleeisland.com

KINGSVILLE WINERY 455 Seacliff Drive, Kingsville, ON N9Y 2K5 1-800-597-3533 or (519) 733-6551 Open Yearly

PELEE ISLAND PAVILION 20 East West Road, Pelee Island, ON N0R 1M0 (519) 724-2469 Open Seasonally

For weddings/special events please contact events@peleeisland.com | 519-982-4950

Editorial

Northwest Beach, Point Pelee National Park

As we enter the summer months, there is a refreshing buzz in the air. Festivals and events have made an enthusiastic return and people are participating in activities and adventures at a pre-pandemic pace.

You will see that we dedicated a number of pages in this issue to travel, as we hope many people will be able to take a vacation this summer. Whether you stay local or venture farther from home, after the abnormality of the past few years, we all deserve a vacation.

As always, we are grateful to the advertisers in this issue who make it possible for us to publish this magazine. And thank you to the contributors for providing great content to our loyal readers.

If you have any comments, questions, suggestions or even criticism, please email us: hello@southpointlivingmag.ca Sincerely,

Melissa Hopper

Southpoint Living is published by:

Southpoint Publishing

194 Talbot Street East, Unit 2 Leamington, ON N8H 1M2 519-398-9098 www.southpointlivingmag.ca hello@southpointlivingmag.ca @southpointlivingmag PUBLISHER & EDITOR Melissa Hopper ADVERTISING Keira Janisse

Melissa Hopper

Southpoint Living | 5

The Bob Whether it’s the dramatic, chin length ‘sliced’ version or the longer, softer collarbone-skimming version, bob hairstyles have become a popular choice these days.

Nail Art Instead of a plain colour or simple design, elaborate nail art is a fun way to make a statement this summer.

Bold Colours

PHOTO CREDIT: Chris Janson

Festivals and Events After two years of cancellations, festivals and events are finally back this summer, including the popular Hogs For Hospice festival (above) happening July 29-31 in Leamington and the Greenway Jam (formerly Kingsville Folk Musical Festival) taking place August 12-14 in Kingsville.

What’s hot...

Bright colours are typically worn more during warmer weather, however this season expect to see even bolder and brighter colours. With most people dressing a lot more casually over the past two years, wearing bold, bright colours is a fun way to liven up your wardrobe and boost your mood.

Secondhand Shopping

Metaverse The future of the internet is on the horizon in the form of the metaverse. Expect a highly immersive experience that can be explored through virtual reality. The appeal of the metaverse is decentralization, allowing users to have more control over their experience.

6 | Southpoint Living

Multi Generational Living With the cost of living and the cost of purchasing a home soaring, many families are opting to have multiple generations live under the same roof.

Whether in person at places like Thrift On Mill or online at sites like Poshmark, secondhand shopping has gained in popularity. Major brands are even getting in on the action, like Lululemon who recently launched a program called “Like New”, allowing customers the option of purchasing gently used apparel.

If you’re looking to do some secondhand shopping, keep these tips in mind: • Find out if there is a return policy in case you change your mind about your purchase.

• Make sure you only purchase items you actually want or need. Don’t buy something only because it’s a good deal.

On The Cover Model

Kiana Garganta @kigarganta Dress

Geneva dress, Allo Clothing @alloclothingco Location

Capogna Flowers @capognaflowers Photographer

Vicki Bartel

@vickibartel.branding

OPEN WEEKENDS

Southpoint Living | 7

[ beauty ]

Long-Lasting Summer Makeup Freelance makeup artist and Shoppers Beauty Boutique Cosmetician Katarina Ingratta shares tips for a long-lasting base even on those long, hot summer days.

Katarina Ingratta @makeup__by__kat

Tip #1

Work in Light Layers

Only apply a thin layer of foundation and build it up where you need to. The more product you apply, the higher the chance the product will separate on your face in the heat or settle into fine lines. By applying a thin layer, there is less risk of transfer or separation. Working with lighter foundations or tinted moisturizers also aid in makeup longevity in the summer.

PRODUCTS: Estée Lauder Double Wear Sheer Long-Wear Foundation SPF 19 or Smashbox Halo Tinted Moisturizer

Tip #2

Setting Spray

Setting spray is a lifesaver when wearing makeup on a hot summer day. By trial and error I have found the best way to apply setting spray: spray your beauty sponge first, then apply it overtop of your makeup by lightly pressing all over with the damp sponge. By pressing the setting spray directly into the makeup with a sponge instead of misting your face, you are allowing the setting spray to adhere the makeup to your skin much more effectively, all while simultaneously removing any excess product.

PRODUCTS: Dermablend Lock and Last Setting Spray

Tip #3

Pressed Setting Powder

Use a pressed setting powder with a velour powder puff, instead of a loose option. By using a velour powder puff instead of a brush to apply your setting powder, you are able to press it directly onto the skin and ensure maximum staying power.

PRODUCTS:

8 | Southpoint Living

PÜR 4-in-1 Pressed Powder Foundation

Dermablend Professional Compact Setting Powder

Dermablend Lock and Last Water-Resistant Setting Spray

Smashbox Halo Healthy Glow All-InOne Tinted Moisturizer

Estée Lauder Double Wear Sheer Long-Wear Foundation SPF19

Dermablend Professional Compact Setting Powder or PÜR 4-in-1 Pressed Powder Foundation

Let me make your move stress free.

Let me help take the stress out of moving with one of my trailers. When you buy or sell your home with me, you get to use one of my trailers for your move absolutely FREE!

3

B RO K E R

sellwithpatricia.com

519-919-1532 ppedreira@royallepage.ca

[ fashion ]

4 Looks To Try This Summer

by Victoria Baird Clothing affects our moods, personalities, the way we interact with people and our confidence. And after a long time spent wearing loungwear, it’s time to have fun getting dressed again.

If you’re ready to transition your wardrobe from comfy to fun, here are four looks you should consider for this summer:

1

COLOUR BLOCKING

2

Vibrant colour blocking is hot right now. It’s bold and a little daring for sure, so if you’re unsure about pairing two different colours side by side you can soften the look using a belt, denim or a neutral within the outfit which will break it up and soften the look.

EYELET FABRIC

3

If you’re looking for a more romantic vibe in the summer months yet don’t always want to wear florals, an eyelet blouse or dress is a lovely alternative.

PATTERNED SETS

4

A complete departure from solid-on-solid lounge sets, these patterned sets are ready to get out of the house and be seen! With a relaxed cut, lightweight materials, and an “are these pajamas or an outfit?” vibe, they are sure to bring an element of fun to your wardrobe. They can also be broken up and paired with a solid for a less dramatic yet still fun look.

GORGEOUS GINGHAM

Much like eyelet fabric, gingham is a classic cotton summer fabric that comes in many colours (not just tablecloth red) and can be worn for more occasions than a picnic in a field!

10 | Southpoint Living

Victoria Baird

Image Coach victoriabaird.com @imageandinspiration

Suit Up!

Looking for a new bathing suit?

Try one of these styles.

14 Mill St E, Leamington, Ontario, N8H 1R7 519-322-2251 ONE SHOULDER

LOW BACK www. chancesgaming lounge.com

HIGH WAISTED

STRAPLESS BIKINI

CUTOUT

RUCHED ONE PIECE

SPORTY ONE PIECE

LONG SLEEVE

Southpoint Living | 11

[ home ]

by Kat Tiessen Today, the lines between what’s appropriate for indoor and outdoor use in furnishings have blurred to the point that outdoor living spaces look just like indoor spaces and indoor

by Kat Tiessen spaces are filled with durable, McKenna Outdoor Chandelier weather and life-proof items.

Outdoor furniture now looks like it came from the living room and the “safe for outdoors” products are now being used inside the home.

There are a lot of really great fabrics originally created for outdoor furniture that repel water, prevent mold and mildew, and resist fading in the sun. You will now see the term “performance” attached to these hard-wearing fabrics where “outdoor safe” used to be. This is because fabric manufacturers have realized that their use goes beyond the outdoors and they don’t want to limit their use to just outdoors. These same fabrics can be used on the family sofa and survive things like spilled juice and pet fur. It easily wipes off and the white sofa sitting in the south-facing window no longer fades to yellow.

Kat Tiessen, Designer Alice Outdoor Table Lamp

Summer Classics Havana Lounge Chair

Cavette Coffee Table

Kat & Co. Interiors www.katcointeriors.com

Crate and Barrel Lounge Outdoor Slipcovered Sofa

Summer Classics Outdoor Chesapeake Buffet Storage

It isn’t only outdoor fabrics that can be used indoors or outdoors; we are seeing that furniture, rugs, lamps and even artwork have found a place outdoors.

With so many great options available, the possibilties for versatile indoor/outdoor décor are endless!

12 | Southpoint Living

Surya outdoor rugs, pillows, and accent furniture

Floral Hues Flowers aren’t just nice to look at, they’re also the inspiration for some pretty paint colours.

BeautiTone: Daylily Yellow

(B23-7-0859-0)

available at Home Hardware

Rona Collection: Beige Rose

(2097-1)

available at Rona

SICO: Violet Orchid

(6029-21)

available at Lakeshore Paint & Supply and Rona

We've got you covered.

Benjamin Moore: Begonia

(2083-40)

available at Truax Lumber and Building Materials

Dulux: French Lilac

(DLX1246-4)

available at Lakeshore Paint & Supply

Premier: Hydrangea Green

available at Canadian Tire

(PR20B7-3)

Business Insurance | Employee Benefits Risk Services | Personal Insurance

519-326-9339 www.hubinternational.com Leamington, Wheatley and Windsor

Southpoint Living | 13

[ food ]

Regenerative farming is growing food in a way that improves the land; it heals soil, improves water quality, and increases biodiversity through practices like no-till, cover cropping, natural pest management, animal rotation and composting.

COMPOSTING 101

Dane Fader and Alley Biniarz are passionate about keeping food waste out of the garbage. Through GreenerFarms, their full-circle regenerative farming operation in Kingsville, their three-person team collects food scraps from homes and businesses across WindsorEssex which they transform into nutrient-rich compost. The compost is then returned to the community as well as used on their farm to organically grow fruits and vegetables with no pesticides, additives, or chemical fertilizers needed.

If you’re interested in composting, here are Dane and Alley’s tips:

Know your “why”

Composting is motivated by a “why”: to keep food out of the landfill! Food in the landfill breaks down in an anaerobic way (without oxygen), which produces methane - a powerful greenhouse gas that is a leading contributor to climate change. When food is composted properly (with oxygen), it creates a nutrient-dense organic matter that, when added to your soil, will help remove and trap carbon from the atmosphere and help retain moisture in our gardens, while also providing balanced nutrients for our soil life and plants.

Keep rodents at bay

Rodents are a deterrent from composting. You can’t blame them for wanting to go after a fresh piece of bread or leftover pasta, but you can deter them or keep them away altogether with a few methods.

Wrap hardware cloth (fine metal mesh) over any compost structure that you build to keep them out (and that includes keeping a rodent-proof cover over the pile). If you’re throwing in breads, pastas, sweets, or other good smelling foods, bury them in the pile and throw carbons on top to make them hard to smell (and hard to reach).

Carbons, carbons, carbons!

A major reason why people are deterred by composting is the smell. Usually, when a compost pile smells, it’s because there’s too much nitrogen (green materials like your food scraps) and not enough carbons (brown materials like wood chips, egg cartons, shredded paper and cardboard).

Maintaining the proper ratio of two parts carbon and one part nitrogen is the key to a healthy (and earthy smelling) compost pile.

14 | Southpoint Living

Dane Fader & Alley Biniarz GreenerFarms

Hydrate your compost pile, but not too much Two other key ingredients to a healthy compost pile are water and oxygen. The microbes that are essential to breaking down your food scraps are aquatic, which means they need to be hydrated by wet materials or by a light watering. These microbes also need to breathe in order to multiply, release heat, and break down the scraps, so the pile can’t be too wet or the microbes will suffocate. Use wood chips, sticks, and other carbons to create structure in your compost pile. This will help oxygen to pass through it, but you should also flip your pile in order to incorporate oxygen.

Let it rest

A common mistake when composting at home is using the compost on your garden or yard too soon. As much as the pile may seem ready after just eight weeks, it’s best to let it cure for a year before using it. This ensures that all of your food materials have broken down and that the finished product has the best available nutrients for your plants. Finished compost will smell earthy, have crumbly structure, look like soil, and show no recognizable food scraps. This is when it’s ready to use in your garden to help you produce fresh, homegrown food!

Bonus tip:

Remember that every time you throw food scraps into the compost instead of the landfill you are doing the planet (and your garden) a huge favour. Happy composting!

WAYS TO MAKE YOUR DIE T MORE NUTRITIOUS Healthy eating should be a goal all year long, and eating nutrient-rich foods is a great way to accomplish that goal.

Here are four ways to easily incorporate more nutritious foods into your daily diet.

Read nutrition labels

Eat dark, leafy greens

Choose more whole grains

Pick pulses

The Nutrition Facts label included on items sold in North America is a significant source of information. Consumers may only read the first few lines, but it’s best to read the entire label before deciding whether or not to purchase a given product.

Whole grains are low in fat and high in fibre. They’re also a smarter source of carbohydrates because they contain complex carbs that keep a person feeling fuller longer. Try to avoid products labeled as “enriched,” as they’ve had the germ and bran removed from the grain to produce a smoother texture, which means they need to be refortified with nutrients.

Green vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and plant-based omega-3 fatty acids.

Kale, spinach and collard greens can be added to soups, stews, scrambled eggs, and salads for a powerful punch of nutrition.

Pulses are essential to plant-based diets, but they also can be enjoyed by meat eaters. The Global Pulse Federation says pulses, which include foods like lentils and chickpeas, are rich in protein and fiber and low in fat. They also contain complex carbohydrates that take longer to break down. Research shows pulses can lower blood cholesterol, reduce blood pressure and help with weight management.

Assisting you with all your real estate goals.

mark.scherer@century21.ca

226.346.8899(cell) markscherer.ca Southpoint Living | 15

[ food ]

Meal Planning Easy ways to save your weekday sanity

Leamington native Nicole (Sleiman) Anderson understands the importance of planning ahead, especially when it comes to meals.

Along with parenting, a corporate job and volunteering on two Boards of Directors, last year Nicole and her husband, Wheatleynative Dr. Derek Anderson, opened Ignite Health in Tecumseh, a chiropractic and wellness clinic.

With a busy schedule, Nicole quickly realized the importance of meal planning and she is now sharing her tips via her Tik Tok account @mealplanning Nicole Anderson

Cooking every day, whether you love it or not, has become a chore for most of us. Add a return to office, children pick-up and dropoffs, extra-curricular activities, side businesses, and general lack of time, cooking for my family quickly became a daily stressor. One way that I’ve found it to be more bearable is to plan my weekday food in advance so that it’s one less thing to think about Monday to Friday. If everything is planned correctly, meals can be both nutritious and delicious, with minimal weekday effort.

Fruit and veggie prep

Invest in planning

Meal storage

Planning ahead is the number one way to keep you organized, stressfree and to help you save money. Use a weekly agenda or notepad to help align your every day food plan with what’s going on in your life. After school activity on Tuesday? Premake a grab-and-go meal for your family.

Only have 20 minutes on Thursday?

Cook what you can ahead of time and use those 20 minutes for finishing touches to your meal. Using that notepad will also allow you to easily track your daily nutrition if this is important to you. If you’re trying to maintain a tight budget, buy what’s in season and what is on sale that week for your meals. To save time grocery shopping, use click-and-collect options or farm delivery services.

A few hours of meal planning, precooking and pre-chopping on a Sunday creates less food waste and can save you hours in the kitchen during a busy work week.

Make sure you know how long your food can last safely in the fridge. Health Canada’s food safety guidelines are always a go-to if I’m unsure. Once you have pre-made your meals or have pre-chopped items that you will be cooking throughout the week, use proper containers to keep these items in the fridge. For work lunches, glass containers work best for food that will be heated in the office. To save time during the week, you could use meat that was cooked and then frozen for later use. Good examples are taco meat (thaw and reheat for quick tacos) and cooked chicken breast (thaw and throw in wraps, salads, alfredos and soup). Pre-chopped and frozen vegetables are also quick and easy, whether you do this yourself or buy them already frozen.

16 | Southpoint Living

Set it and forget it Use all of your kitchen tools to your advantage. I love my Crockpots; I usually have my protein in one and my starch in the other and let those cook away while I’m at work. I use my air fryer daily (I no longer have to wait until the oven preheats) and my Instapot works wonders when I’m cooking my meat in large batches for the week. If you want to get some of these tools but don’t want to break the bank, check second-hand options (Facebook marketplace is a gold mine!). Just know though that you do not need these tools to successfully meal plan, but if you’ve got them, don’t let them collect dust or be intimidated to use them!

Meal prep

Be realistic

Get creative If you don’t like eating the same lunch for four to five days, try adding a different element to each lunch to shake it up; create the same base but maybe use various proteins, an unusual carb or a new dressing in each bowl. Enlist the help of your kids and those around you as you meal prep to help with dishes and new ideas. You can also repurpose your leftovers; if you made chicken fajitas on Monday, save some time on Tuesday and make a chicken tortilla soup with leftovers!

I have very picky eaters at home, and if you have the same, I understand how hard meal planning can be.

Involving these picky eaters into your planning process can help them take ownership of their dinners and might get them to finish their plates.

You’ll also have a lot of pre-chopped vegetables and cooked meat in the fridge to make quick “party platters”, an assortment of healthy food for the kids at dinnertime. On super busy nights, don’t worry about cooking.

Treat yourself and order in. You can also stock the freezer with nutritious pre-packaged food (Costco has some great options!). Finally, if Tuesday rolls around and you just aren’t feeling what you’ve prepared that night, freeze it for another day and enjoy what you’re craving. This process should be fun and help you manage a busy lifestyle, so make sure that you’re approaching it in a way that aligns with your weekly goals.

NEW FOR 2022/2023

Reduced Tuition & Free Transportation

Southpoint Living | 17

Fields of When you think of farming, flowers probably aren’t the first thing that comes to mind.

Morning Dew Farms @morningdewfarms

Who:

Melissa Gagnon

Where:

Wheatley

What:

Perennials, annuals, natives, trees, and shrubs. Monthly floral subscriptions in summer, wreath making workshops in the loft, and custom bouquets upon request.

Why:

I started gardening and growing plants and flowers as a hobby when my daughter was just a wee one, well over 20 years ago. It brought me a sense of calm and offered me moments just to be at one with Nature.

Floramère Flower Farm @floramereflowers

Who:

Natasha Chortos

Where:

Ruthven

What:

Over 200 varieties of flowers and foliage including dahlias, peonies, ranunculus, lisianthus and tulips. Offering workshops on the farm, and cut flowers are available on Fridays at Auntie Aldoos in Cottam and The Cheese Bar in Tecumseh, and on Saturdays at Anchor Coffee House in Walkerville and Whiskeyjack Boutique in Downtown Windsor.

Why:

I initially started down the path of flower farming because of my passion for floral design. After working in the industry and witnessing the total disconnection from Mother Nature, I knew that I wanted to create designs that better reflected the beauty of each season. I wanted to grow and design with flowers that were free of harsh chemicals and safe to touch, were in season, unique, and smelled incredible!

18 | Southpoint Living

Dreams But these local flower farmers are making their mark with the most stunning crops.

Eh Oh Farm @eh_oh_farm

Who:

Jennifer & Kyle Gould

Where:

Kingsville

What:

Approximately 40-50 different types including tulips, daffodils, bachelor buttons, yarrow, coreopsis, bergamot, zinnias, sunflowers and snapdragons. Pick your own at the farm sold by the stem, handful or bucket. There is also a section of pick-your-own herbs like parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, dill, cilantro/coriander and different fresh teas.

Why:

I have always loved farming. Growing up I was in 4H and my family always kept a garden where I learned a lot through trial and error and researching how to improve what didn’t work for me. I was given the opportunity to farm this field and immediately knew what I was going to do with it.

East Beach Flower Farm @eastbeachflowerfarm

Who:

Sherri Toole & Brandon Neufeld

Where:

Leamington

What:

Multiple colours of sunflowers (main crop), snapdragons, gladiolus, zinnias, dahlias, strawflower, foxglove, cosmos, greenery and filler. This year we are also adding ornamental pumpkins and squash to our farm. Our flowers can be purchased every Saturday at the Downtown Windsor Farmers Market or picked up on the farm by appointment.

Why:

We decided to flower farm after a few years of gardening and growing flowers as a hobby. We’ve always been passionate about being outdoors and all the beauty it has to offer. We strive to have a career that we truly enjoy doing, and flower farming felt right when we discussed what would be our best route.

Southpoint Living | 19

[ weddings ]

Modern Wedding If a traditional wedding isn’t your style, opt for some modern touches instead.

LOCATION

A unique location is one of the most common ways to stray from tradition, with many couples choosing to have the ceremony and reception at the same location.

DÉCOR

Modern wedding decor looks more like works of art or interior design elements than traditional wedding decor. Wow your guests with something they have never seen before.

COLOURS

Instead of a single accent colour, consider featuring multiple, colours in fun ways.

FOOD

Instead of the usual wedding meal options, consider serving guests unique, more memorable food.

20 | Southpoint Living

DRESS

White wedding dresses are the epitome of tradition, but there are plenty of options to stray from the norm through colour, length or style.

BRIDESMAIDS Instead of having your bridesmaids wear matching dresses, give them free reign to wear what they want within the same colour palette.

HELLO Buyers, as the market settles, it’s a great time to get into the home of your dreams.

Let me help!

DRESS CODE Have some fun with the dress code.

Encourage casual attire for a more laid-back affair or ask guests to wear the same colour for a more cohesive look in photos.

SHANNON MATHESON REALTOR®

SHANNON@JUMPREALTY.CA

519-329-7291 Southpoint Living | 21

Debating

“I love watching debates and listening to radio or podcasts.

It’s easy to say if you know me at all, I actually enjoy to debate a little myself.”

Gardening

“When I’m not in my shops, you can find me in my garden!”

Travelling

“Whether I get to go myself or I get to listen to other people’s adventures, I love travelling, planning or just daydreaming about it.”

22 | Southpoint Living

My Favourite Things

History

“There probably isn’t a subject of history I wouldn’t sit and listen about - the history of art, food, technology, fashion, hair etc. How something began and has continued or ended grabs my attention.”

Teamwork

Samantha George The Beauty Boutique & Colour Lounge by Samantha George

“With the right team I believe anything is possible. Teamwork takes trust, motivation, imagination, vision, elbow grease and the ability to respond to one another’s needs.

No matter the situation in business, teamwork will get you there faster and more successful.”

My Nephews and Godson

nephews Hendrix & Myles

“The beautiful boys in my life who take time to make me feel special, and bring laughter and joy into my heart.

Watching them all grow has been part of the best moments in my life.”

godson Mitchell

Pairs well with...

We asked local brewers to recommend one of their beers that’s perfect for summer and a food it will pair well with.

Kingsville Brewery

Cured Craft Brewing Co.

Top Dog Brewing Company

Grove Brewing Company

Banded Goose Brewing Co.

Light Eh! Lager pairs well with

42nd Parallel Lager pairs well with

Watermelon Summer Wheat pairs well with

Sequel Celebration Ale pairs well with

Flying V West Coast IPA pairs well with

any summer barbecue dish

BBQ ribs

a snack on the beach with friends

Grove Brewing Company’s

Banded Goose Taproom’s

El Diablo Burger

Mayan Poke & Chips

Southpoint Living | 23

[ travel ]

Be Their Guest

You don’t have to go far from home to get away from it all.

Check out these local spots that are perfect for a staycation.

Bungalow 21 Kingsville

Beds: 3 Baths: 1 Sleeps: 7 Hosts: Aleks and Stefan Dobrich At Bungalow 21, prepare to be teleported into 1971 just in time for ‘Led Zeppelin - IV’ to release and MASH to air. With three bedrooms and two futons, a spacious bathroom with a private toilet and room to entertain, there’s plenty of space for everyone. Fire up the vintage record player that’s stocked with vinyl, or have some cocktails on the retro bench in front of the signature wall. instagram.com/bungalowtwentyone

The Kingsville House Kingsville

Beds: 5 Baths: 4 Sleeps: 12 Host: Paul Medeiros Built circa 1886, the Kingsville House was renovated to contain multiple suites, each uniquely themed. Guests may book one of the three individual suites or those looking for a larger space may choose to rent out the entire house to themselves. The heated, saltwater pool is typically open from the start of May through to Thanksgiving weekend. kingsvillehouse.com

24 | Southpoint Living

Sunsets By The Bay Leamington

Beds: 3 Baths: 2 Sleeps: 9 guests

Host: Gabriella Colasanti This cottage is conveniently located along the shores of Lake Erie with an upper and lower beach, meaning you always have a sandy beach overlooking the lake.

This cottage is perfect for couples, friends or families looking to relax by the lake. sunsetsbythebay.com

HoriZen BNB Leamington

Beds: 1 bed per suite (4 suites total) Baths: 1 ensuite per room Sleeps: 3 suites sleep 2 guests and 1 suite sleeps 4 Hosts: Shelby, Mike, Tessa and Molly Foster A beautiful century home with four individual private suites that each feature a luxurious bed and fine linens, as well as a private ensuite bathroom. Guests will be provided with a gourmet breakfast and access to the shared guest living room as well as sitting areas on the large wrap-around front porch. horizenbnb.com

Pura Vida Beach House Beds: 4

Wheatley

Baths: 2 Sleeps: 10 guests Hosts: Matt Hutchinson and Emily Branton Upscale and dog friendly with over 100 feet of private beach and stunning lake views. Cozy up by the fireplace, around the firepit or melt your troubles away in the deep soaker tub. Lots of space for a girls weekend or multi-family getaway. Fast wifi and dedicated work space make it a perfect lake escape for remote workers. instagram.com/puravidawheatley Southpoint Living | 25

[ travel ]

GREAT DESTINATIONS FOR A

GIRLS TRIP If you’re looking to get away with some girlfriends, here are a few ideas for where you can go. Keep in mind, though, that whether you stay local or need your passport - you can’t go wrong wherever you go if you go with the right group!

Pelee Is land

LOCAL

Local Rental If you want to stay close to home, consider a stay at one of the many local rental properties in our area, including the ones we highlighted on pages 24 & 25.

Pelee Island If you want to get a little further from home but not too far, opt for a trip to Pelee Island. A visit to Pelee Island Winery is a must, but beware - the wine tends to go down a lot faster when you’re on island time.

Montreal

DOMESTIC

Montreal If you want the European feel without crossing the Atlantic, Montreal is the perfect destination. A walking tour of Old Montreal offers a Parisian feel, complete with cobblestone streets and historic architecture surrounded by charming shops and restaurants. And the best part is that you can fly there direct from Windsor International Airport.

Nashville

STATESIDE

Nashville Considered the unofficial Bachelorette Party capital of the world, Nashville is the perfect location for anyone looking to let loose. Bar hop down Broadway where you will have a plethora of options for drinks and dancing. And who knows, you might even stumble on a country music star along the way.

Paris

INTERNATIONAL

26 | Southpoint Living

Paris Channel your inner Emily and head to the City of Light for chic fashion, bustling cafés and endless photo ops. Indulge in the incredible baguettes and macarons, and do once-in-a-lifetime activities like having a picnic on the grass near the Eiffel Tower or take a dinner cruise down the Seine. But keep in mind that if you’re heading there in the sweltering summer months, you’ll want to book accomodations with A/C, as many locations don’t have it.

CAMPING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS

Even though camping seems like a relatively easy activity, first-time or novice campers should familiarize themselves with some of the basics of camping before embarking on their trips. Camping beginners can consider these tips to make the most of their time in the great outdoors: Practice in your backyard Practice setting up a tent and other camping equipment in your backyard first so it becomes second nature by the time you go to a campsite. Sleep outside in the yard and learn the sounds of nature to get a feel for camping, including spending time in a sleeping bag. It’s a lot easier to make initial adjustments in the backyard as opposed to at a campsite.

Get recommendations Talk to avid campers to find out what they recommend and how they differentiate between necessities and luxuries. They may advise against investing in unnecessary items and may suggest items you hadn’t yet considered.

You can also ask for campsite recommendations so you don’t go to all the trouble of getting set up at a location, only to be disappointed by your surroundings.

Rent or borrow gear first Trying out gear before you purchase will allow you to determine the products you want to invest in. For example, you may think you need a certain size tent only to find out you would rather spend a little more money on something more spacious.

Make a packing list To avoid forgetting items, it’s best to plan ahead and make a list of what you need to bring. It’s helpful to organize your list by category, to easily differentiate between the various items you will be bringing including camping equipment, food and clothing.

Southpoint Living | 27

[ travel ]

Humantay Lake, Peru

Keeing Up

Wadi Rum, Jordan

With The

Mascarins

After a European trip in 2012, Randy and Andrea Mascarin became hooked on exploring the world and decided to make travel a priority. After averaging three or four trips annually, this year the Mascarins have embarked on an epic year-long global adventure. Leamington native Andrea and Windsor native Randy sold their LaSalle house, put their careers on hold, and in January they set out on their global adventure, documenting their travels on Instagram @youshouldcomehere.

Only their first three months were planned ahead of time, allowing for the remainder of the year to be open to spontaneous travel opportunities.

What made you decide to do this?

Our addiction to travel began in July of 2012, after completing a twenty-day tour around central Europe. After returning home, we knew that we were hooked.

Over the next nine years, we made it a priority to get out and explore the world as much as we could, averaging about three to four trips per year. Once the pandemic restraints lifted, we knew we needed a change; a break from the monotony. At home, we would wake up with thoughts of schedules, deadlines and daily stresses that our regular, everyday grind instilled in us. While travelling in Costa Rica, we were introduced to this concept of ‘Pura Vida’, the good or simple life, as the locals refer to it. After about two weeks, it began to feel like a real thing. After experiencing the freedom that travelling has provided to us, we honestly feel as though this is the way we were meant to live, not just us at this moment, but every one.

What are some of the highlights of your travels so far?

From surfing blue waters and enjoying the lush rainforests in Costa Rica, to climbing to the summit of an active volcano, and watching it erupt for the entire night, while sleeping inside of make-shift tents in Guatemala. These experiences are why we travel. After avoiding hot lava, we transitioned away from beaches and volcanoes, in exchange for trekking steep inclines, bringing us to rugged, rainbow mountain tops in Peru. We made a quick stop at Machu Picchu, taking time to experience one of the seven great Wonders of the World. After climbing back down, we took a boat ride through history while cruising along the river Nile, jumping back to land to visit the Ancient Pyramids of Egypt. After taking a flight to the United Arab Emirates, we journeyed through magical, man-made islands, observing one of the tallest buildings in the world, the Burj Khalifa. After arriving into Oman, we were fortunate to experience the hospitality and cultural beauty of this hidden gem, floating through its numerous sink holes and treading along its wadis. We then ventured off into isolation, riding through the vast desert in the back of an old Toyota 4x4 truck, spending time in traditional Bedouin Desert Camps, watching stars illuminate in the sky like never before, inside of the Wadi Rum protected area. Once back from seclusion, we made our way to Jordan. The incredible archeological history that exists in Petra left us speechless on more than one occasion. After getting our Middle Eastern fix, Europe began calling our names, forcing us to overindulge on carbs; eating fresh noodled pasta in Rome, and consuming gelato outside of the Colosseum. After waking up from our food coma, we found ourselves lost while exploring the mazes that are the medinas of Morocco. These have been the experiences that we have been craving, this is why we TRAVEL! Giza, Egypt 28 | Southpoint Living

Including their current trip, Andrea has visited a total of 43 countries while Randy has visited 37 countries. Here are five places they have visited and why they encourage others to go there.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Comino, Malta

MALTA

This Mediterranean island is rich both in history as well as cultural diversity.

It is surrounded by beautiful oceans, making it one of the more premiere dive spots for enthusiasts of reefs, underwater caves and sunken ship wrecks. One of the more underrated, and less known facts about Malta is that it typically experiences over 300 days of sunshine, making the beach experiences ideal for all of those seeking a slower pace. Make sure to check out “Dinner in the Sky” if you make your way here, where you will enjoy a five-course meal while suspended approximately 40 metres above its skyline. The Maltese also have more festivals than anywhere else in the world, increasing your chances of experiencing a true and unique traditional Maltese festival while you visit.

Petra, Jordan

JORDAN

Jordan remains a hidden gem situated inside of the Middle East and is one of the safest countries we have encountered while travelling. The generosity and charismatic culture that exudes from the hearts of its people leave you wishing that you didn’t have to leave. Jordan is home to one of the most famous archeological sites in the entire world, in Petra and the Treasury—one of the new seven wonders. Aside from its incredible open-air museum of archeological sites, Jordan offers unique untouched desert landscapes (Wadi Rum), bringing you into an oasis that has been deemed as the closest thing to Mars that you may ever get to experience. If you are looking for the ultimate spa, Jordan also provides travellers access to the Dead Sea, one of the lowest places on earth and the most mineral-laden bodies of water you will ever take a relaxing float in, literally.

PERU

Although every country manages to perfect its own niche, Peru is one of those countries that manages to stand out amongst its South American counterparts, offering a deep cultural experience unlike any other. The ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu are considered to be one of the most beautiful and mysterious sites in the world.

Unfortunately, for most people, their journey into Peru starts and stops here. Peru is a hiker’s paradise, providing access to the Andes, allowing you to venture into the high terrain and experience rainbow mountain ridges, with llamas following you each step of the way. There is so much untapped beauty inside of Peru (like Humantay Lake) that it makes you question why this country is not at the top of everyone’s travel bucket list.

Rome, Italy

BALI, INDONESIA

Bali, in our opinion, is paradise on earth. It lies just south of the equator and is home to every form of natural beauty you can ask for as a traveller. This rugged, volcanic island is home to ancient temples, lush, green jungle, two active volcanoes and picturesque rice terraces with giant swings. Bali’s coastline is surrounded by limestone formations that sit elevated above some of the most beautiful beaches we have experienced while abroad.

Lastly, and probably the most important, Bali is super cost-effective, making it the ideal work abroad location amongst travelling nomads. It’s up and coming food scene has completely transformed the flavour dynamics of traditional cuisine. Bali is a total vibe!

Bali, Indonesia

ITALY

Whatever your passion, no matter what you seek to explore, you can find it in Italy. Italy is definitely one of our favourite countries to visit in the entire world. It just has a little bit of everything. Aside from being an absolute foodie’s paradise, Italy allows you to travel back in time and experience some of the world’s most historic landmarks. I mean, where else can you experience the Colosseum and Sistine Chapel in the same afternoon?

Southpoint Living | 29

[ life ]

The Importance of Friend Therapy

by Mona Taouil As a principal, when I observe kids playing on the schoolyard, I wonder who amongst these groups of friends will keep in touch with one another throughout their lives? Who will manage to hold on to first elementary friendships, and who will make new ones and at which point?

Who amongst them realizes the people they are playing a simple game of tag with now, may in fact, be their rock and their go-to support later in life?

It causes me to reflect on my own path of friendships in my life. I’m fortunate to still maintain my first friendships with girlfriends from elementary school. One friend in particular I have known since our very first day in SK. I came in crying. She was not. She felt bad for me and let me play with her. We still lean on each other to this day when necessary. We don’t have to talk daily or see each other often because we have an unspeakable bond spanning back to the kitchen play centre days.

I wish this special connection for my own daughter and son and my own students. I have other good solid friendships from grade school and honestly, I feel like these girls knew me when; they knew the me that I was when I was born into this world, without the effects of life leaving its marks on me - before teenage growth and angst, before adulthood freedoms and burdens, before career successes and stresses, and before having children and dealing with adulting.

The same can be said for friendships formed during high school. To this day, these friends help keep me anchored by reminding me of who I was to them and for them, back then. It’s both strange and a beautiful thing how, at times, others who are close to you seemingly know you better than you may even know yourself.

Especially during those times when you feel you may be losing yourself.

30 | Southpoint Living

Mona Taouil The number of friends Gurl Like You quantity-wise should gurllikeyou.com pale in comparison with @gurl_like_you_ authentic and natural bonds of friendship. In adulthood I have found that genuine friendships are borne out of an ease of being. There is no need to act differently, to tone a laugh down, to silence a point of view in fear of offending, or to be someone else. In these times and with these friends, it has become clear to me that these are my people and they should be cherished.

Of all my friendships from elementary to high school, to friendships made during university life and the course of my career, these beautiful women all have one thing in common: they are grounded in their own goodness. They are good people and they support me in my own development and growth. They support women in general. They are authentically happy and sad for me, and for one another, at all of our accomplishments and at our possible setbacks.

I’m proud to say, my friends offer a great time lots of support, laughs, and so much pride. And I hope, I really hope, I provide these same things for them.

For me personally, life is amazing but it can also be hard and super busy. Navigating through changes in self, in mind and body, and a time of growth into maturity and into a deeper love and time.

It is a time of exhaustion and exhilaration, both euphoric and bittersweet. But, more than anything, it’s the comfort of knowing my best girls and peeps are at the tip of my texting finger. I wish the same for all of you.

Blessings,

Mona xo

Music education plays an important role in childhood development, providing skills in and out of the classroom.

Researchers increasingly are finding that “do-re-mi” may be just as essential to children’s development as “A-B-C” because of many benefits, including the following: • Music participation goes beyond playing an instrument or singing notes from a page. Experts say that participating in music education involves many different skills, including listening, vision, fine motor skills, problem solving, and utilizing large and small muscle groups.

• A growing body of research points to music for its transformative effects on youngsters. Participation in music education may help improve communication skills, foster better memory and help children focus their attention more effectively.

• Music helps students develop the left side of the brain, which is known for processing language. Researchers found children who study music tend to have larger vocabularies and more advanced reading skills than those who do not participate in music education.

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southpointsun.ca Southpoint Living | 31

[ health ]

Keeping An Eye On Your Skin

by Samantha Crevatin

Canadian Certified Physician Assistant, RAAMP Clinic

As the warm weather and sunshine falls upon us, we all want to be outside more often. Increasing physical activity, increased vitamin D absorption, and improvement in mental health are all excellent reasons to get outside this summer, but we cannot forget about protecting our skin.

To lower your risk of skin cancer you can: • Use sunscreen • Wear protective clothing • Find shade • Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps

Samantha Crevatin

The most important thing is to KNOW YOUR SKIN! It is recommended to check your skin regularly.

When self-examining your skin, you can use the “ABCDE” system to determine if a mole or skin lesion is concerning: A = ASYMMETRY If a mole or skin lesion is symmetric, it is more likely benign. If a mole is asymmetrical, it is more suspicious for malignancy.

B = BORDER A mole is more suspicious for malignancy if the borders are irregular, notched or scalloped C = COLOUR Most benign moles are all one colour. If a mole has a variety of colours, possibly different tans, browns or blacks, this is a warning sign.

D = DIAMETER Moles with a diameter more than 6mm are more suspicious for malignancy.

E = EVOLVING If a mole starts to change or evolve in size, shape, colour, etc., this is a warning sign of malignancy.

You are at increased risk of skin cancer if: • You have a person or family history of malignant melanoma • You have more than 50 moles on your body • You have a history of radiation exposure, particularly in childhood • You have fair skin, naturally red or blonde hair, tend to burn or freckle easily If you have any concerns about your skin, it is recommended to contact your primary care provider for a skin screen. Should you not have a primary care provider, the RAAMP Clinic in Windsor does offer a self-referral for skin screening. For more information regarding the RAAMP Clinic and self-referral process, visit www.raamp.ca

32 | Southpoint Living

HEALTHY WAYS TO ALLEVIATE

STRESS

Stress can affect anyone at any time. Men, women and even children experience stress, which can be triggered by professional, personal and social pressures. Chronic stress has been linked to various long-term health issues and people feeling stressed out may turn to various unhealthy coping strategies, such as overconsumption of alcohol, drug use, and overeating, compounding the negative effects of stress.

If stress is an ongoing battle, here are some healthy ways to alleviate it: MAKE AN EFFORT TO SOCIALIZE An inability to socialize during the pandemic undoubtedly contributed to increased stress levels.

Socializing increases a hormone that decreases anxiety levels and helps individuals feel more confident in their ability to cope with stress.

Socializing also provides a chance to direct energy outward, thus providing a distraction from internal stress.

MAKE TIME TO EXERCISE Exercise benefits the body in a myriad of ways and can be an effective tool in the fight against stress.

One of the ways exercise helps to combat stress is that it imitates the fight or flight response created by stressful situations and essentially teaches the body how to work through stress. Much like practice prepares athletes’ bodies prior to a game, exercise prepares the body to respond to stress in a healthy way.

PERFORM GOOD DEEDS When helping others, individuals activate neurotransmitters in their brains that are associated with positive feelings and reduced feelings of anxiety and worry. Volunteering with a local nonprofit, coaching a child’s sports team and mentoring a young person are some good deeds that can not only benefit others but also make you feel better.

If you require immediate mental health support, contact Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare’s Community Crisis Services at

519-973-4435 (24/7 support)

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Southpoint Living | 33

MADE LOCAL

We’re in awe of the many talented people in our community and the incredible things they’re doing. Check out these local makers we’ve discovered through Instagram.

EPK Fine Art

Brianne’s Art Creations and Photography

Kekes Bakes

Who:

Who:

Erica Peterson-King

What:

Who:

Kaitlyn Bergen

Brianne Taggart

What:

Ocean and geode artwork

What:

Cakes and cupcakes

Where:

Paintings and photography

Where:

@epkfineart

Where:

@kekes_bakes

@briannesartcreations

Kelsy & Co.

Wickerie Candle Co.

Who:

Who:

Syndi Bolinto

What:

Handmade scrunchies and bows

Where:

@kelsyandco

34 | Southpoint Living

Shawna Wilkinson

What:

Hand poured soy wax candles

Where:

@wickerie_candleco

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