Capital Christmas 2017

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Christmas Capital

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2017

HOW VICTORIA CELEBRATES

Celebrating the Season!

Readers share their favourite yuletide stories

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holiday event calendar

Foxtrot, whiskey Tango spotlight

christmas songbook

eric akis: tourtiere

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8 16 30 40 42 44 48 49 53 56 58 Capital

Catch the holiday spirit with festive events for all ages Readers share their personal stories of Christmas past Christmas Songbook Lesser Known Christmas Traditions Dream a Little Dream Holiday Happening Fundraisers Eco-friendly Holiday Season Foxtrot, Tango Whiskey to warm you up on chilly winter days A Christmas Eve Tradition – Tourtiere Santa's Helpers Jack Knox: Dad Friday

Christmas 2017

Dave Obee | Editor-in-Chief David Whitman | Advertising Director Darron KLoster | Editor GORDON FALLER | Designer JENUS FRIESEN | Designer Jason Scriven | Sales Manager WENDY KALO | Operations Manager

Capital Christmas is published by the Times Colonist, a division of TC Publication Limited Partnership, at 2621 Douglas St., Victoria, British Columbia V8T 4M2. Canadian Publications Registration No. 0530646. GST No. 84505 1507 RT0001 Send comments about Capital to: Editor-in-Chief Dave Obee: dobee@timescolonist.com.

To advertise in the next edition, phone: 250-995-4464, or email Sales Manager Jason Scriven at: jscriven@timescolonist.com.

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Editor’s Note

Dave Obee Editor-in-chief, Times Colonist

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A lesson from ol' Ebenezer

et’s make this the best Christmas ever.

No, really, let’s go for it. Let’s have a day — a season — that is based on mutual love, respect and understanding. We can do it if we try.

There is far too much anger in the world these days. For many different reasons, it seems that there is less civility on all sides. We’ve become unfiltered and uncaring. It is time to change that, and make lives better for everyone.

When did things start to slide? And why did they? Some blame the political climate in the United States, or the rise of social media at the expense of personal contact, or the overall tightness — dare we say Scrooge-like? — thinking that seems to be driving so many decisions in business and government offices these days. Some say this is new, others say it’s always been like this.

No matter what, it’s never too late to change. And since we mentioned ol’ Ebenezer already, it’s only reasonable to speak of the lessons he learned in his really bad night so many years ago. (In the book, Charles Dickens had Scrooge’s encounters with spirits over three nights. Blame Hollywood for squeezing away a couple of days.)

In simple terms, A Christmas Carol is about learning from the past, recognizing the present and planning for

the future. It is about the value of charity, of caring for others. It is about the Christmas spirit, a message of love and understanding that cannot be driven away by even the meanest, most miserable tightwad.

That the story has endured for more than a century and a half is telling. Dickens’ book captures the sense that, despite all of the misery in the world, there is hope — hope for a better future, and hope for right now.

But we need to get going.

How do we do that? Start by reading the stories in this magazine — stories that might bring back good memories, and thoughts of Christmases past. If possible, bring your family together (and we define family as the people who are close to us, not just those with biological connections. It is Christmas, after all; let’s be inclusive).

And while the 1951 movie version of A Christmas Carol is a must-watch, that doesn’t mean we have to do it every year. This year, gather the family around and take turns reading passages from the Dickens classic. Don’t have the book? The full text can be found on several websites, including this Literature.org one: literature.org/authors/ dickens-charles/christmas-carol.

As you pass the iPad from person to person, you can feel the warm glow of creating a new Christmas tradition.

No matter what, let’s make this a Christmas to remember, and let’s vow to make the good feelings of the season last as long as they possibly can. Perhaps into next year’s Christmas season, if possible. Then, this small corner of the world will be a better place for everyone.

Merry Christmas!

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s t l n e a v n o E s a e S Capital

Nov. 15 to Jan. 2

Nov. 25, 4:45 p.m.

26th Annual Victoria Festival of Trees

36th Annual Island Farms Santa’s Light Parade

The Bay Centre

Government St. between Superior and Chatham

The Festival of Trees has become a local holiday tradition. Wander through a lush forest of beautifullydecorated trees to raise muchneeded funds for the B.C. Children’s Hospital.

Santa kicks off the holiday season in Victoria with the Island Farms Santa’s Light Parade. See festive floats, bands and entertainment light up the night. Join Santa after the parade in Centennial Square for refreshments from Island Farms and to officially declare Christmas in Victoria open. You are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food donation for the Mustard Seed Food Bank.

bcchf.ca

Nov. 18 to Jan. 2

Canada’s National Gingerbread Showcase 2017 Parkside Hotel 810 Humboldt St.

This year, Parkside Hotel and Spa will host Canada’s National Gingerbread Showcase, which benefits Habitat for Humanity Victoria. Event highlights the skill and creativity of professional and amateur bakers from across Canada while supporting the work of Habitat for Humanity Victoria. This year’s theme is Celebrating Canada.

habitatvictoria.com

gvfs.ca

Dec. 1 to Dec. 12, either at noon or 1 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 24, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 25, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 26, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

29th Annual Out of Hand Artisan Fair Victoria Conference Centre

Find unique gifts for friends, family and yourself at Victoria’s most prestigious artisan fair. The fair is a celebration of fine crafts, food, one-of-a-kind fashions and decorative arts.

Choirs In The Courtyard Greater Victoria Public Library Central Branch/Central Courtyard

Treat yourself to an early afternoon seasonal sampling of Victoria’s choirs in the Central Branch courtyard – one of the city’s sweetest acoustic spots.

For times and performers, consult:

gvpl.ca

outofhand.ca

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Seasonal Events Dec. 1, 5 to 9 p.m.

Dec. 2, 1 to 5 p.m.

Christmas Craft Beer Show Save On Foods Memorial Centre

Celebrate a hoppy holiday at the Christmas Craft Beer Show, an opportunity for everyone to raise a mug of holiday cheer. Sample seasonal offerings of local microbreweries, as well as their brewery favourites. A great way to start off the holiday season. The event is suitable for those 19 and older .

Friday, Dec. 1, 7:00 p.m.

The Royal Victoria Yacht Club Annual Sea of Lights, Lighted Ship Parade From Cadboro Bay to Willows Beach, then back to Cadboro Bay after passing Gyro Beach. See the beautiful boats lit up in the boat parade. Donations go to the Salvation Army and Kiwanis Club of Oak Bay. There will be a bonfire and music at Willows Beach.

rvyc.bc.ca

Dec. 2 7:30 p.m., Dec. 3, 2 p.m.

Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney

Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 2, 2 and 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 3, 2 p.m.

Dance Victoria presents The Nutcracker with Alberta Ballet and the Victoria Symphony Royal Theatre

This year, Tchaikovsky’s enduring holiday classic returns with an extravagant bejeweled set and gorgeous costumes created by EmmyAward winner Zack Brown and choreography by Edmund Stripe. Be magically transported back to 19th century Russia with the captivating ballet that looks like a wonderfullyillustrated children’s book.

rmts.bc.ca

Guided Walks

Enjoy warm-hearted and sometimes humorous stories of how Christmas was celebrated in Victoria during the Victorian era during 90-minute tours taken among the historic buildings in Old Town.

discoverthepast.com.

Sunday, Dec. 3, 5 p.m.

Nov 28, 6:30 p.m.

Christmas Lights Across Canada Front lawn of the Legislative Assembly

Join special guests, the Reynolds Secondary Carol Band, and children’s choirs to celebrate the annual cross-country light-up on the front steps of the Legislative Assembly.

The giant sequoia on the front lawn will be illuminated with thousands of lights, with hot cocoa and cookies inside.

canada.ca

Sidney gets into the holiday spirit with an annual Christmas parade along Beacon Avenue. At its conclusion, people are encouraged to move to Beacon and Bevan wharves to be treated to the Lighted Boat Parade, a flotilla of beautifully decorated, lighted boats gliding along the waterfront.

Peninsula Singers Christmas Joy

marywinspear.ca

Christmas in Old Victoria

Sidney Sparkles Christmas Parade and Lighted Boat Parade

sofmc.com

Bring joy to your world at the Peninsula Singers’ Christmas benefit concert – 90-minutes of song, dance, banter and a polished chorus. The concert will include traditional songs and new arrangements such as the opening, Joy! A Medley of Carols, move along to old favourites like Mel Torme’s Christmas Song and, as is customary for the choir, witty send-ups of some Christmas traditions.

Saturday and Sunday From Dec. 2 to 31

peninsulacelebrations.ca

Dec. 11, 12 and 13, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 1 to Jan. 6

Magic of Christmas at the Butchart Gardens December marks the beginning of a month of festive displays and activities at Butchart Gardens.

Experience the thrill of thousands of lights, wreaths and the Twelve Days of Christmas displays. Enjoy ice skating, carollers and festive dining. Bring a paper snowflake and exchange it for a cup of hot chocolate (ages 12 and under, please).

butchartgardens.com Dec. 2

19th IEOA Truck Light Convoy and Food Drive Watch large commercial trucks festooned with lights parade through the streets of the capital region. Starting at Ogden Point, the convoy weaves its way through Oak Bay and downtown Victoria before continuing on to View Royal and Langford. People are encouraged to drop off their food donations at designated sites along the route.

Naden Band 2017 annual Navy Christmas Concert Series Royal Theatre

Get into the holiday spirit at the Navy Christmas Concert Series, a performance by the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy. This group of 35 professional musicians annually take to the stage to entertain and support of The Salvation Army Toy Drive.

This is the 39th year of the seasonal concert, with a festive musical program that includes original works and holiday favourites. Audience members are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy on the night of the performance.

nadenband.ca

Dec. 8 and 9, 8 to 11 p.m.

Dec. 10, 2 to 4 p.m.

Christmas Pops Royal Theatre

Celebrate the holiday season with the Victoria Symphony. Join the orchestra and the talented voices of Vox Humana to hear both popular and classical holiday favourites in this family-friendly presentation of Yuletide cheer.

Giuseppe Pietraroia conducts, with Kathleen Brett, soprano and the Vox Humana Chamber Choir.

rmts.bc.ca

Dec. 16, 2:30 p.m.

Diemahler Christmas Pops St. Mary’s Church

1701 Elgin Rd., Oak Bay

rmts.bc.ca

ieoa.ca

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Seasonal Events Dec. 8, 7 p.m., Dec. 9, 3 and 7 p.m., Dec. 10, 3 p.m.

Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular McPherson Playhouse

A celebration of Christmas, as well as an extravaganza of music and dance, with new Broadway hits, classical songs and Christmas favourites.

Listen to musical tributes to Johnny Cash, June Carter, Ella Fitzgerald and the Village People.

Also playing Dec. 5 and 6 in Courtenay and Dec. 12 to 17 in Nanaimo.

rmts.bc.ca

aligned with nature

featuring

essentials

Nov. 28 to Dec. 17

A Christmas Carol

by Charles Dickens, adapted by Michael Shamata The Belfry Theatre

1291 Gladstone Ave. A ghost story for Christmas, the Belfry’s acclaimed production returns, along with some of the best-loved Dickensian characters of all time. A story of love, generosity and second chances, it will take you through the darkness and into the light of true joy and celebration.

belfry.bc.ca

Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 16, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Daniel Lapp’s Home for Christmas Concerts Alix Goolden Performance Hall

Each year, Daniel Lapp’s Home for Christmas concerts enhance the holiday cheer for audiences, with exceptional musicians from pre-teen to the very wise — and everywhere in between. Featured soloists, as well as the renowned Shiny H’ornaments, Swing’n Shepherds and the Strings of Lights. Lapp’s legendary ensembles, including the B.C. Fiddle Orchestra, Folkestra! and Joy of Life Choir also appear.

DECK YOUR WARDROBE WITH ECO COZY FASHION

vcm.bc.ca

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Dec. 5 and 6, 7:30 p.m.

The Celtic Tenors Christmas Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney

The Celtic Tenors offer a holiday program which stretches musical boundaries while paying homage to their traditional Irish roots.

Prepare for a festive evening of Celtic and Yuletide music.

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November 28— December 17 2017

“A Christmas ghost story with soul… a visual delight.”

TIMES COLONIST

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ISTMA R H C S CAROL

Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Christmas McPherson Playhouse

The Legends of Rock n’ Roll presents a tribute to Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash and a young Elvis with 90 minutes of tunes that have stood the test of time, played by tribute artists, played the way it is supposed to be played.

rmts.bc.ca

Dec. 16, 8 p.m.

A Jann Arden Christmas Join Canadian superstar Jann Arden and Giuseppe Pietraroia, conductor, for an evening of holiday music and favourites with the Victoria Symphony. Her quick wit, warm heart and passion for music will make this an unforgettable evening.

S N E K RLES DIC M I C H A DA P T E D BY M AT A AEL SHA

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mts.bc.ca

Dec. 27, 7 p.m., Dec. 28 and 29, 2 p.m.

The Gift Royal Theatre

Ballet Victoria presents a uniquely wonderful Christmas ballet to Tchaikovsky’s timeless Nutcracker score performed by the Victoria Symphony. Join the dancing characters as a young girl sparks an exciting adventure and a world of unexpected wonder when she opens a present early.

rmts.bc.ca

TICKETS

250 385 6815 B E L F R Y. B C . C A

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Seasonal Events Dec. 21: Sylvan United Church, Mill Bay, 7 p.m.

Dec. 22: Sooke Harbour House, Sooke, 7 p.m.

Dec. 23: Oak Bay United Church, Victoria, 2 p.m.

Dec. 23: Oak Bay United Church, 2 p.m.

Seventh Annual Winter Solstice Concert Dec. 15, 8 p.m.

Dec. 17, 2:30 p.m.

University of Victoria Centre Farquhar Auditorium Dec. 18: Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, Duncan

Handel’s Messiah With the Hallelujah Chorus as it's centrepiece, Handel’s oratorio Messiah is probably the most famous piece of classical music in the world.

Feel the music and hear the voices ring out this holiday season, with Eve-Lyn de la Haye, Soprano, Kirsten Schellenberg, Alto, Justin Odwak, Tenor, Michael Nyby, Baritone, the Victoria Symphony and the Victoria Choral Society.

victoriachoralsociety.ca

Weaving the Light - A celebration of music and joy The Winter Solstice Concert returns with award-winning violinist Quin Etheridge-Pedden. Includes Cari Burdett, Sara Marreiros, dancer Marisa Jackson and Adrian Dolan and Adam Dobres on piano and guitar.

Uplifting melodies to classic carols, global sounds and cabaret style numbers sung in Italian, French, Spanish, and Portuguese. Choral textures of gospel, folk and chanting with bits of theatre and improv throughout. All ages welcome.

The Sooke Philharmonic Orchestra and the Sooke Harbour House will sponsor an intimate concert with 75 seats, optional candlelit dinner.

Dec. 21, 22, 23 Times: 6:30, 7, 7:30, 8 p.m.

The First Christmas Nativity Pageant Topaz Park

This free outdoor Nativity Pageant is presented by local members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and friends. Members of the 100-strong cast and crew, plus live animals, transform the park for a few unforgettable moments that will keep the true meaning and joy of Christmas in your heart forever.

A great experience for the whole family.

christmasnativity.ca Jan. 1, 2:30 p.m.

A Viennese New Year’s Royal Theatre

Start the New Year off right with an afternoon of music, dance, and song.

Enjoy lively and nostalgic music from the family of Johann Strauss and his contemporaries, with Timothy Vernon conducting.

For a comprehensive listing of seasonal events, visit the Times Colonist website:

timescolonist.com/events

rmts.bc.ca

cariburdett.com/solstice

Detail © Qing Lin

Members get all the perks!

Members receive unlimited admission to feature exhibitions.

EXHIBITION OPEN Dec 8, 2017 – Apr 2, 2018 Join today at royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/join

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Letters

Capital

Readers their sto share ries from seasons past

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Letters

The warmth and love of a Christmas in Canadafirst

It was 1947 and, as an immigrant arriving in Canada from a war weary U.K., I fou This room was obviousl nd myself searching for y a catch-all for the ne a new life in Edmonton – anything eds of daily life, snow shovel different after almost s, heavy boots and co five years in the of A.T.S. – the women’s ats, buckets potatoes and tree-like army in England. stems of Brussels sprou I had rented a room fro ts, while overhead, suspended m a friendly family an fro m the rafters, were smok d as Christmas approached ed hams and canon-ball shape , my hosts were deter d Christmas pudding mined that I would not spend it alo s wr ap pe sno d in wy white cloths. ne. They were to travel to Biggar, Sask., to enjoy the ho The women folk settle lidays with members d into their various ne of their family who farmed just outsid sts in front of the banked-up sto e the town. ve aft er what seemed to be Assured that I would a neveren ding parade to the ‘lav be made welcome, I y’ and gradually the ho joined the two children in the back sea use slept.

Su dd enly, from the icy porch t of their old car, and there came an almigh in short order, we were off to the Pra crash, with muffled cu ty iries. rses and cries. A flashl It was bitterly cold. Th ight glowed and then a hysterical e sun sparkled on the eight-year-old burst int snowy streets and there was o the kitchen screaming, “Mam! Ma a Christmas feel in the m! A pudden just kill air, but as we got closer to our destin ed Dad.” Bu t Dad was made of ste ation, the skies began rner stuff — he lay stu to darken, a howling wind buffe nned for a moment after being ted the car and swirli side-swiped by a fruite ng snowflakes covered the windscree d, spicy missile which had broken loo n. se from its moorings After what seemed to above and hit him on the side of his be a never-ending jou head, which was luckily rney, I spotted a sign which cushioned by the he avy boasted : “New York woolen toque that he is Big, but this is had worn to bed.

Biggar.”

Further sleep was ou t of the question, and “Thank you, God,” I after a medicinal to all round thought. to restore shattered nerve We lurched on for a few s, the men, loa ded down with heavy more miles and arrive coats, boots, mitts an d at a modest farm house wh d scarves, ad jus ted their toques and went ere I was warmly welco out to the barn to ass med by kindly family members and try to repair the ess and smiling strangers damaged sled. who were obviously visiting, too Later, their success wa . s obvious as they cam These were neighbours e laughing and shouting through who had travelled by the snowdrifts in a no a horsedrawn sled from their wcalm dawn.

Fro m a huge vat of oatmea own home about five l that had simmered miles away to bring Christmas greeti all night on the stove, assorted ngs and simple home bowls and mugs were -made gifts to these old friends. filled and enjoyed. After gratef ully declining an invita The storm held no ter tion to stay on for Christmas dinner, rors for them and the the neighbours decid y planned to be home before dark. ed to risk their fiv e-m ile journey home, urged It was only when a sno on by their children wh w- covered boulder damaged on were impatient to see o e of the runners of the what Santa had left un ir sled that they limped back to their der the tree.

Those of us who were friends' farm and rea left helped with the da lized that getting home in the dark tha ily chores, prepared veggies and t night was not possi watched the errant Ch ble. The three children and two adult rist ma pu s dd ing bubbling on the stove. s were going to be ov By mid-afternoon, the ernight guests as well. was more food set ou re t on the huge scrubbe It was Christmas Eve d kitchen table that I had seen – delicious food was in years. laid out for all to share, and then we Now some 70 years lat all gathered around the er, the memory of the old upright piano to sing well-lov welcome, the generosity and the ed carols and popular kindness of my new songs.

There was so much wa Canadian friends is stil rmth, so much love in l with me. that little house that night that I found myself longin g to see family I had so willingly my own

Barbara F osdick left behind in war-torn England, wishing that they, too

, could experience thi s warmth, this V ictoria love.

With the children conc erned that Santa would never find them, they reluctantly agreed to bed down in the spots that the women had found for us all. Makeshift sle eping bags of horse blankets and heavy overcoats were made up for the men and boys wh o rolled in fully dresse d in the frigid glassed-in porch.

Continued> Capital Christmas | 17

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Letters

Brown paper

parcels

On the nigh t before Ch ristmas and of a bell stir past the elev red the slum enth hour, th ber of youn bed, dress an g children. It e loud ringin d to be on ti caused them g me to atten the children to jump out d Midnight and those o of Mass. The u f the church Christmas ca plifting voic choir sang in rol, Adeste es of Latin and in Fideles There was b harmony th reakfast in th , to celebrate the bir th e o boiled egg e large refe f Christ. by a serving ctory, wher e each child nun. Early af a cold floor was given a ternoon, th in the playro e girls sat in om and liste wearing the a wide circle ned attentive black and w on ly to the voic hite habit o paper parce e of a perso f the holy cl l in her han n oth. Holdin d, picked up out the girl’s g a small bro from a pile name on it. wn on a nearby When all th some of the table, she ca e parcels wer girls left the lled e in the han playroom w forgotten o d of the ow ithout a Ch nes. ner, ri st m as gift. Thes The crownin e were the g glory of C hristmas was the clergy an d local paris per forming hioners of th in a play atte with permis e church an nded to by sion, to wea d of the per r makeup o Tea time, th former’s del n this specia e glory of al ight, l occasion. l glories, was blancmange being served with red jelly a portion of on top, and pink a thin slice o

f Christmas iced fruit ca ke.

Caroline

A Christma worth rememsber

E . W hitehea d Sidney

ing

It was 1992 . We were liv ing on a gar Chelsea just den acreage north of Ott in Old awa. I had a could do a fa my dad for big idea that mily Christm many, many we as as my so living with th years and d questions, h n and daug eir mother in espite my m e had alway hter were North Vanco divorced), m any s refused to an Su uver (we wer ddenly, the y older broth swer any of g e at er was living e younger bro o p them. ened and h about his ex in Nanaimo ther was in e star ted ta perience as , my Cranbrook lk in Ladysmit in g th e HMCS Athab youngest sa and my par h. ents were ilor aboard askan (the U My wife ag nlucky Lady) the German reed, but no , his capture s, his years in t before I pro kitchen app by prison camp towards the liances becau mised her al and his esca end of the w l new se she was with the old pe ar only to b American A not going to ones we had e arrested b rmy because cook . Okay, $10 Zero fridge, y the he had blon they though ,000 later fo new stove, d hair and b t he was a G r Sub built-in dish technology lue eyes; er m an w an as escapee! W microwave. soldier prete her and the e were all to I must adm latest nding to be mar vel afte father in a n tally enthralle it the kitchen r we cleaned ew light. d and I saw was a up the instal We purchas my Just about ti lation mess. ed a free-ran m e for Christm ge turkey fr and ever yth goes out! It as om a local su ing else we d in n er and the pow does not co needed from pplier Price Club (n me back on er finished coo the newly-o ow Costco) for three day king ever yth pened as my family was great to s so we ing using th as our kitch star ted arrivi see ever yon e fieldstone en as well as ng. It e again und time coming fireplace our heat. M on the living er one roof ) and we all y older broth fl (a o o lo r en fo n g joyed ever yo a long time r th er slept re e b d u ays just to ke rning. coming) ove ne’s compan ep the fire r a few bott y (also Christmas m le B s y of wine and the time the orning arrive pop. power cam living room d and ever yo was closer th opening pre n e w as an we had ev e back on, my family in th sents and w e had star ted er been bef Christmas w atching the in our huge ore. That w orth remem fire I fieldstone fi was cuddle as a b er h ing and the av re e ever had si place. My so d up next to only one we nce as a fam n his grandpa suddenly “w ily (m . y dad) and hat did you said do in the w ar? ” I had liv Peter F air ed with child

V ictoria

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Greater Victoria Concert Band

hristmas Nerdy Days of C Craft Fair

Market Square CapitalChristmas_2017_60pgs.indd 19

Tuba Christmas

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Letters

Lone Ranger rides to the rescue

I was nine years old and we lived in a small town in snow country. It was a week before Christmas, and all the shopping had been done at Sears or Eaton mail order, for delivery a few days before Christmas. The tree would be cut from the forest in the coming week, and decorated — a family affair followed by hot chocolate and friendly teasing.

Mom had asked us children what we wanted for Christmas, so she could tell Santa, she said. This was her way of injecting a little mystery and suspense into the season. I knew there was no Santa Claus, of course, but went along with her because, well, you never know for sure and I wanted to take no chances. We had each bought presents for everyone in the house — seven people in all, a strain on my saved-up allowance.

What I wanted more than anything else in the world that year was a set of pearl-handled Lone Ranger cap pistols, with matching gem-studded leather fast-draw holsters. When Christmas Eve arrived, Mom said to us that she had heard on the radio a severe storm was happening in the North, and Santa may not be able to make it. I knew that meant Sears might not be able to deliver my precious guns in time.

I stayed indoors, staring down the street, watching for the Sears delivery van until 3:00 p.m., then, fearing the worst, I

Magic Moments

I just had our youngest daughter that June, and in July the Armed Forces sent us to Lahr, Germany. It was a big adventure for our little family and it was quite exciting, but despite all the travel adventures and happy events, when it came time for Christmas, the season was feeling just a little bit lonely. We were far away from family and friends-and on that particular Lahr Christmas morning, there wasn’t even any snow on the ground.

We all went into the living room and turned on the Christmas lights as well as some nice Christmas music.

Katherine, our 22-month-old daughter, wasn’t quite sure of what to make of all the interesting packages she saw under the tree and in her stocking. She was wide-eyed and a little hesitant about what was going to happen next.

I turned from the soft glow of Christmas lights and looked out of the window.

Right on cue, big snowflakes began tumbling from the sky. I said: “Oh Katherine! Look! Snow!”

I picked her up and carried her over so we could look out of the window.

The windows in the apartment were the kind that you opened inwards — like little glass doors.

I opened them wide and we watched those soft pretty flakes drift gently down and begin to cover the ground.

Then — just like magic — in the German tradition, Christmas bells from three area

had to get outside. I rounded up some pals, and we started playing a game of shinny hockey on the snow-packed street, using frozen horse-droppings for a puck. Time passed swiftly.

At supper time I went indoors and glanced at my mom, who mentioned that the latest weather forecast noted the storm was beginning to clear. This, translated from her code, meant that my beloved pistols might still arrive. I was elated.

I could imagine myself in a blue shirt with matching slacks and a white hat, black mask and cowboy boots. I would rid the town of desperadoes, and ride into the sunset astride my trusty horse, shouting a hearty: “Hi ho, Silver, away!”

From that point on I was in a dream world. The Midnight Mass we attended was magical, and the customary feast afterward was better than ever. When gift-opening time finally arrived, sure enough, there were my lovely pistols. I strapped them on with a jaw-breaking smile; I just knew life did not get any better than this.

Dad said with a grin, “Don’t shoot your guns in the house, son.” Mom smiled a tiny smile, but her eyes sparkled, as she knew that she and Santa between them had once more made a little boy’s Christmas perfect.

Ted Lavallee Victoria

churches all joyfully began to ring at the same time. Truly a special moment ever to be remembered.

But one extraordinary moment deserves another.

When we returned from Germany a few years later, we went directly to Petawawa, Ont. Petawawa surely had no lack of snow. There were several feet of the sparkly white stuff on the ground by Christmas eve. Katherine and Erica were three and four at the time, so we decided to take advantage of the situation.

We got the girls all dressed up in their snowsuits and they took their seats on the family toboggan. We had a set of real sleigh bells that my husband had purchased at a local tack shop, so the bells jingled their way onto the toboggan as well. Pulling the jingly toboggan behind us, we set out for the candlelight family service at the base chapel. There was very little traffic on the quiet married-quarters streets that festive evening. Once again, snow had begun to fall in big soft flakes. The world was muffled and still, except for our sleigh bells. The neighbours had their homes lit up with beautiful Christmas lights. The bushes in front of homes were nestled in blankets of snowy white, but the coloured lights diffused up through the snowcovered branches.

As we walked along, the lawns twinkled with snowdiamonds bordered by Christmas-lit fantasy lands. The sound of sleigh bells, mixed with the giggles of two happy little girls pulled along by their mom and dad team completed the picture.

The base’s church bell rang out a welcome, and another special Christmas Eve had begun!

Jean Jenkins, Victoria

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Re-enacting the true Christmas story For many years, Parksville Baptist Church held what was called Bethlehem Walk, for five days, beginning a week before Christmas.

This was organized by Pastor Gordon Reeve with his wife, Donna.

Often, it was not easy to find a tiny baby to be part of the Nativity scene.

A number of years ago, our daughter, who with her husband and twin three-month-old daughters (born prematurely and still very tiny) arrived from England to stay with us in Qualicum a few days before Bethlehem Walk began. When they were asked if they would take part in the Nativity scene, Michelle was delighted, and a friend who had worked with Michelle before, agreed to take the part of Joseph. That particular year, the Nativity was held in a large tent with a platform. The tent would fill up quickly as many folk came from all over the Island and the Mainland to attend.

Each evening, as the story unfolded, the time would come for Joseph, who had been holding the Baby, to hand Him to Mary. She would take the Baby, look at Him in total awe, and whisper loud enough for everyone to hear: “Joseph! I’m holding GOD! I'm holding GOD!” As you may imagine, this was followed by a complete silence before the clapping began. When this eventually quieted down, Joseph and Mary, who carried the Baby, would walk part way down the steps where Mary sat holding the Baby, so people, especially children, could see Him as they walked by.

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Continued> Capital Christmas | 21

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Letters

No turkey? No problem

We were a motley crew and far from home when we gathered around the scrubbed pine table for Christmas dinner in 1973.

Alke, the long-time English teacher at Hochalpines Töchterinstitut Ftan (HTF), the Swiss school that employed most of us, was once again playing mother to me and Kathy, neophyte teachers at this girls’ boarding school. It was our first Christmas away from our homes in Victoria, and Alke, herself from Sooke, had done her darnedest since our arrival earlier in the year, to see that Kathy and I glided smoothly through life in this alpine village in eastern Switzerland.

The table was made merrier with Gary, the wild-haired and bearded Jewish Philadelphian hippy-dippy music teacher who was always up for a party, his FrenchCanadian wife Antoinette, their year-old cherub Isaac, my boyfriend and Kathy’s sister, both visiting for the holidays. We also welcomed Anna, a favoured senior year student whose family lived in the village. The only thing missing was the turkey.

The “Stube,” or pine-panelled dining room in Alke’s apartment, was looking so festive. Candlelight backlit the simple straw decorations and the table settings sported nuts and leaves from the surrounding forest.

Our mothers had sent along care packages, fearful that we’d not be able to access the customary trappings, so the usual necessities of a traditional Christmas dinner were all in place. Too bad they couldn’t have sent over a Butterball.

It should have been so easy. The local butcher, who doubled as our ski instructor in winter, had a daughter in the school. We were so sure we would have an “in” when it came to the big bird, even though we knew that turkey wasn’t a popular meat in Switzerland.

But despite our ample lead-time request to Herr aPorta, it didn’t happen. Not his fault; we truly believe he tried but there were simply none to be had. And, it’s not the meat of choice to grace a Swiss Christmas table. They customarily serve Bündnerfleisch, an air-dried beef served cold with salads and pickles on Christmas Day. So, we settled for two chickens. Not much else we could do.

Alke, Kathy and I prepped the smaller birds in turkey fashion and popped them in to be roasted in the temperamental oven with fingers crossed. The 1973 OPEC oil embargo played with our minds and our stomachs. The gas could go dry at any time. But our prayers were answered. Two roasted beauties were laid out on a platter with the accompanying vegetables and roast potatoes. The cranberry sauce, oversupplied by our mothers and complete with the stripes from the can, wobbled in ruby tones as we pulled Christmas crackers, donned paper hats and shared the groan-worthy jokes.

Isaac toddled around the room in childlike wonder, sporting Alke's red ski helmet and carrying a dreidl. We toasted our far-away families, we ate, we hugged and we even danced to Gary's dulcet piano jazz, grateful for this ad hoc family of friends, and, in the end, not really missing the turkey.

Christmas Chaos

A grandparent raising grandchildren story

The toilet’s plugged again. Merry Christmas! My husband, shrieking from the head: ‘What the hell did the little tykes put in it this time?

“I dunno,” comes the reply.

Another yell: “Where’s that thick old brown towel we always use [to place around the toilet so it doesn’t leak all over nearby carpeting?]

He gets everything set and tries a tentative flush. Minor flood. Oh, this is just great! And we’ve got company coming for Christmas dinner. And for the past two days we’ve had the worst snowfall in years!

He tries our old and well-worn toilet plunger. Doesn’t work. Tries a different plunger which he has to borrow from the neighbour. It doesn’t work either. Trudges to the shed in the snow to get the snake. No go.

Grumbles. Much groaning and wrenching. The kids watch from the doorway, fascinated. Last time he had to break the seal, take it off and haul it outside.

Still more trudging and griping. This time it’s to hook up the garden hose and haul it in the bathroom window. Oh no, there goes my beautiful Christmas window ledge display. Have to grab it quick before it ends up in the toilet, too! Blasts the toilet with water. No dice. The kids are now hanging onto the door frame, heads craned, with gleeful expressions on their faces.

“Grandpa’s gonna have to take the toilet off”! They love this part. One hour until company arrives and the toilet still won’t flush. We only have one bathroom. He finally found a spare seal in the garden shed which he saved for just such a contingency.

Hauls the massive toilet outside. Me warning and cautioning all the way.

Pat Kelly Victoria

That’s a Peach Bisque Elger Donegal ‘elongated-style custom-ordered toilet from the U.S. (Texas, of all places!) I waited two months for the darn thing to come when I built the house 20 years ago. The plumber had to temporarily install a white one. Six months later, my lovely peach creation arrived to match its complementary tub and basin.

“Be very careful, hon, one crack in this thing and I’ll never be able to replace it.” (I haven’t seen a colored toilet anywhere for about 15 years!)

He hikes the massive thing out the door where he has set up large wooden blocks at the side of the house. In the snow, of course! My husband stands 6-foot-3, so setting it up high takes the strain off his back. It also gives the hose more ‘whooshing’ power’ (to quote the kids). He places said toilet on top. A bit wobbly, like a pink leaning Tower of Pisa. The kids race outside; I with the camera. He flushes it vigorously and repeatedly with the hose.

Then we get an idea. Camera at the ready, we take a picture of Grandpa, foot up on the side of the toilet like a big game hunter. Trusty, but dangerous nozzle in his hand. Flushing it ‘into submission’ with the garden hose.

Our little entourage follows him triumphantly back into the house as he lugs in the monster and reinstalls it — just minutes before our Christmas company arrives!

P.S Guess what our old neighbour got from us for a Christmas present on Boxing Day? A new toilet plunger which DOES work.

(In case we have to borrow it from him again next year!).

Joy Glover Sheldon Victoria

Continued>

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Something to sing about I grew up on a street in Toronto, where neighbours got together for special occasions.

One of our the traditions was singing Christmas carols on Christmas Eve to neighbours on nearby streets, as well as to a transit operator. The leader would bring his guitar and song sheets were given to each person.

Normally, we would just sing one or two verses, as it was generally pretty cold! Afterward, one of the families would host a dinner, along with Santa Claus. One year, when I was 11, I was given a Hot Toddie instead of a Hot Chocolate! This tradition went on for many years.

It has been over 25 years since I last attended, and all the original neighbours have moved on to other areas. I do miss this, and do remember how important it is to sing and praise with your neighbours!

Jason Richardson

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Letters

Frisky Business There was excitement in our eyes just thinking about opening our presents on Christmas morning. Mother and Father were busy clearing the table after a delicious and very special pancake breakfast with lots of whipped cream, fruit and other treats. The sun was shining, glistening on the snow in our backyard in the suburbs of Montreal. It was a perfect scene.

Our cat was named Santeux, which in French means One Who Smells. Cats are by nature very curious and inquisitive — thus the connection to his name. It was time to let him in from the cold. Father opened the door as he had done so many times before. Santeux shook the snow off his back and proceeded directly to the living room, where a beautifully decorated tree stood among a mountain of presents.

It reminds me now of a scene from Norman Rockwell: a dad in a white shirt, his sleeves rolled up, a mom on a chair cuddling the youngest, four children seated on the floor staring intensely at the gifts brightly wrapped in festive paper.

Santeux seemed disinterested with then whole affair and sat on the back of the sofa — until something spooked him!

Perhaps it was the decorations on the tree, the flashing light or just our excitement filling the air. As if sitting on a live wire, the 14-pound cat jumped up and sprinted toward the tree. He then jumped in the tree, causing most of the decorations to go flying and crashing all around us. When he tried to break his fall, many more decorations flew in all directions.

The tree toppled only to be caught at the very last second by my father, who stepped on the manger, killing everyone inside. Recoiling from such a faux-pas (literally), he knocked the rabbit ears antenna from our old black and white TV and fell between mom and the baby and the TV. When Santeux finally broke free of the wiring and the decorations, he fled toward the kitchen with my father in hot pursuit. That’s when his foot caught the antenna, nearly toppling the TV over.

It was a horrific scene. It looked like a tornado had come through our living room. Mom and all of us kids laughed our heads off — and we still do!

We’re still looking for Santeux.

P. Jasmin Oak Bay

A Most Unusual Christmas from the Past.

Our family’s most unusual Christmas took place in the 1980s.

The suburban Montreal church that we were members of, a United Church, was one of many that offered sanctuary to people who were, for a variety of reasons, in serious danger of being deported by Canada’s immigration authorities.

The man, whom we called Julio (not his real name), was a union organizer who had fled Chile in fear for his life. He had spent more than a year in our church, not being able to set foot outside for fear of being arrested by the authorities, and helped the sexton by doing odd jobs around the building.

Julio’s sojourn in our church extended through December of this particular year, and since it would not have been much of a Christmas for him to be all alone in an empty church building, my wife Mary and I decided that Julio should join us for Christmas dinner. Under normal circumstances, having a guest for dinner would be no big deal, but our intended guest was, in effect, a fugitive from the law.

On Christmas morning, after we had all opened our gifts and set about preparing our traditional Christmas turkey dinner, I drove over to the church, feeling somewhat like a secret agent heading for a meeting with a confidential informant. I had a good look around the area outside the church, just to make sure there were no Mounties lurking in the bushes, and quickly hustled Julio into the car and over to our house.

Having Julio as a dinner guest was not the only thing that made this particular Christmas memorable, though.

Some weeks before Christmas our congregation had been informed that there were a lot of university students from overseas who would be on their own over Christmas, and would appreciate being able to spend Christmas day with a family. Why not, we said. The more the merrier!

Let’s really spread the Christmas spirit around!

So after I had spirited Julio to our house, I headed into Montreal on a much less furtive mission to pick up our other dinner guests, two student teachers from Kenya. As I recall, they had only been in Montreal for a couple of weeks and were getting their first taste of a frosty Montreal winter. I can’t imagine what it must have been like for those two young men to be confronted by weather far, far colder than either of them had ever experienced, or even thought about. When I picked them up, neither was wearing gloves.

When I asked them if they had gloves, they said no. They were trying to harden their hands against the cold, they said.

While we were getting everything cooked for dinner, Julio and the two students were off in a corner of the living room deep in animated conversation, while our five kids looked on in fascination.

It was quite a crowd that sat down to dinner this Christmas Day: My wife and I, our five children, my mother, a Chilean refugee claimant, and two newly arrived African students. It was a most wonderful and memorable Christmas Day, one we’ll never forget.

Ian McFarland Duncan

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Letters

Christmas: The true meaning

One of my fondest memories of Christmas as an adult occurred in 1967 when my children were youngsters. My oldest son would have been 4 1/2, his brother and sister were 3 1/2.

This particular Christmas, we were having the family Christmas Eve dinner at my brother’s home. At that time he had two daughters. My mom and dad were also there, along with my sister and her husband and their four sons. In all, there were seven children six or younger. The older two boys were 10 and 12.

My brother arranged for a friend to make a visit to the house dressed as Santa Claus before the dinner hour. The children wore their finest outfits. Everyone arrived in plenty of time, and the youngsters had no idea they would have a special visitor.

You can imagine when Santa Claus arrived with his “ho-ho ho,” there was plenty of excitement. The older ones approached Santa with some caution but soon warmed up to him. The younger ones held back, but the look of awe and wonderment in their eyes was so precious.

It wasn’t long before Santa had coaxed them to come and talk to him. The prospect of a candy cane was too much to be denied.

They were soon bombarding Santa with what they

wanted for Christmas, no matter that they had already sent a him a letter with their requests. When Santa left, he promised when they woke on Christmas morning there would be a surprise under the tree for each of them.

The excitement kept up for a long time after Santa left. Dinner was enjoyed by all and soon it was time to go home. It would be a very special and lasting memory of the Christmas Santa came to visit and to recall the joy and sparkle in the children’s eyes as he talked to each one of them.

There was no problem getting the children into bed that night. The anticipation of waking up to a present from Santa was a huge incentive for three tired little ones to hurry into pyjamas, hang up their stockings, say their prayers and hop into bed. However, for Mom there was still a long evening ahead wrapping presents, filling stockings and doing last-minute preparations for the next day.

As I finally relaxed with a cup of tea and reflected on the day’s events, it became very clear to me that Christmas is love. It’s much more than Santa Claus or giving gifts. Love is the special bond that draws family and friends together. It’s being kind and respectful of all persons, starting at home.

May the same wondrous joy that lit up the eyes of my children light up your eyes as you celebrate the most precious gift of love God gave the world, his son Jesus.

Dianne Day

Continued>

Sinterklaas

One of my fondest memories of g Christmas was when I was a youn ated liber r -wa post in up girl growing Holland. by We celebrated the birth of Christ with filled was h attending church whic ing the sound of beautiful music com ls, caro s stma Chri of ing sing the from yed enjo then choirs and pipe organ. We t grea se cour of with family gatherings etc. food, drinks No gifts were exchanged as that t of tradition was held on Dec. 5, the feas ).

Day olas Sinterklaas. (St. Nich Great Memories!!

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Letters

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Christ v r g ye ep and season. Mo d o lo t t in 0 s s f v 7 li o e is t ly e h h r th tell t 's gif N ea ip in s this d do an k o t a s t e ep e a d t d k e 's f t a b d d Da chil ill m ne le few n, bu t o ll w e a u a t t e ly o g m o n t w s in g o u r e as iss po een fo hear t of th was m however; w he would s health long b e h S e e r t . d u s s u o g m it r t d t at Judg lessin l wa righ e ha e il b b l t w r s o is u . d h o e n C e of m count was over, a a twinkle in d another Bo n n i inside ha h ar the w ily. Dad wit st to mom n a n m e had and fa s unbeknow ristmas . H sh to h e y C xtra ca ie, blue e r tly before little e other Donn o a h s n r a r e b plan o y t ab tunity r my b o pp or ball fo a e s a purch

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l a i c e p S e n O istmas Chr

hristmas wed my e each C d a m they sho e v n a e h h d w a d o d rs ag r of 2002 Mom an many yea f season. The yea g in n hased in g e just purc d eaning o a h special, b m I e d u n tr s. It and a I the ing chair sister and tand out. My husb six match ce h s la it s p w y a to le will alw ch end om tab a ro e t g a in ad rs in e d w er as it h my dream k with special dra r it forev fo is d e h a k ic o o ad lo h, wh was solid res. We h randparent’s hutc h su ic a h e w tr f a lea at G “secret” that extr ly Great Gre d b a y a h m rt o h fo ls a tc m to ma old. It airs co 100 years d it have eight ch ough n well over lth te a x e d ing ve” an e could onservati s, and despite urg meant w c “ e b n a c ir I a . h e c it lg a o extr around to indu r those tw s reluctant for us a wishing fo . w le I b am ta husband g this dre n from my nd dad ti a le p m o m on co , my m d e iv r rr a anymore g red at ou s mornin ere gathe w Christma y il m h other fa along wit

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tmas s i r h lC

k oo B g n o S a pit a C

The history behind some beloved Christmas songs

H

oliday traditions vary from family to family, but one component of the holidays that seems to be universally enjoyed is a good Christmas song. Music is piped throughout malls and stores to entertain shoppers, and favorite tunes may be on the radio or streamed through a digital music service as families decorate their homes.

Many people may love Christmas songs and carols, but not everyone shares the same favorites. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of material when it comes to Christmas songs, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

In 2014, Time magazine researched records at the U.S. Copyright Office to determine the most popular and most recorded Christmas songs since 1978. when copyright registrations were digitized. The following are some of the more beloved holiday tunes and a bit of history about each song.

• Silent Night: One of the most rerecorded songs in history (733 versions since 1978), “Silent Night,” was composed in 1818 by Franz Xaver Gruber and put to lyrics

by Joseph Mohr. It was first performed on Christmas Eve at St. Nicholas parish church in Oberndorf, a village in Austria. Today’s version is a slow lullaby, but it’s believed the original was a dance-like tune in 6/8 time.

• O Holy Night: This popular song was composed

by Adolphe Adam in 1847 to a French poem titled, “Minuit, chrétiens (Midnight, Christians).” Many notable performers, including Perry Como, Céline Dion, Josh Groban, Michael Crawford, and Lea Michele, have performed “O Holy Night.”

• Silver Bells: Now a Christmas classic, “Silver Bells” originally was written for the Bob Hope film, “The Lemon

Drop Kid.” Songwriter Jay Livingston wanted to title the song “Tinkle Bell,” but his wife dissuaded him from using the word “tinkle.”

• White Christmas: Irving Berlin believed his song “White Christmas” would be an instant hit. His prediction was correct, especially after singer Bing Crosby recorded it.

• Jingle Bells: Although it has become one of the more popular Christmas songs, “Jingle Bells” really was written for Thanksgiving. It’s also one of the oldest holiday songs of American origin. James Lord Pierpont, the song’s author, was inspired by the famous sleigh races of Medford, Massachusetts.

• Do You Hear What I Hear: Noel Regney wrote this song as a call to peace during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

The original context has long been forgotten, and “Do You Hear What I Hear” is now a staple of holiday celebrations.

• Santa Claus is Coming to Town: James Gillespie wrote this tune while riding a subway and reminiscing about his childhood with his brother. It became a hit after being performed at the famed Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

• The Christmas Song: This classic Christmas song was written in 1944 by Bob Wells and Mel Tormé. It’s usually subtitled “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire.”

The song was written during a heat wave as a way to think cool thoughts. It only took 40 minutes to write the music and some of the lyrics. Nat King Cole’s rendition of the song is among the more popular versions.

Christmas songs are enjoyed and performed year after year. The most popular songs continue to endure and attract new fans.

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Silent Night — Joseph Mohr, 1816 Silent night, holy night All is calm, all is bright Round yon Virgin Mother and Child Holy Infant so tender and mild Sleep in heavenly peace Sleep in heavenly peace.

Silent night, holy night!

Shepherds quake at the sight Glories stream from heaven afar Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia!

Christ, the Saviour is born Christ, the Saviour is born.

Silent night, holy night Son of God, love’s pure light Radiant beams from Thy holy face With the dawn of redeeming grace Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth.

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2

Oh Christmas Tree — Traditional German carol Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree!

Thy leaves are so unchanging Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree, Thy leaves are so unchanging Not only green when summer's here, But also when it’s cold and drear.

Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree, Thy leaves are so unchanging!

Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree, Such pleasure do you bring me!

Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree, Such pleasure do you bring me!

For every year this Christmas tree, Brings to us such joy and glee.

Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree, Such pleasure do you bring me!

Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree, You'll ever be unchanging!

A symbol of goodwill and love You'll ever be unchanging Each shining light Each silver bell No one alive spreads cheer so well Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree, You'll ever be unchanging

3

joy to the world — Isaac Watts , 1719 Joy to the world, the Lord is come!

Let earth receive her King; Let every heart prepare Him room, And Heaven and nature sing, And Heaven and nature sing, And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing.

Joy to the world, the Savior reigns!

Let men their songs employ; While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow, Nor thorns infest the ground; He comes to make His blessings flow Far as the curse is found, Far as the curse is found, Far as, far as, the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove The glories of His righteousness, And wonders of His love, And wonders of His love, And wonders, wonders, of His love.

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jingle bells

— James Lord Pierpont wrote the song in 1857 for a Thanksgiving program Dashing through the snow, in a one-horse open sleigh, Over the fields we go, laughing all the way.

Bells on bob-tails ring, making spirits bright, What fun it is to ride and sing a sleighing song tonight.

Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way!

O what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.

Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way!

O what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.

A day or two ago, I thought I’d take a ride And soon Miss Fanny Bright, was seated by my side; The horse was lean and lank, misfortune seemed his lot; He got into a drifted bank and we got upsot

Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way!

O what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.

Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way!

O what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.

5 O holy night!

— Adolphe Adam, 1847 O holy night! The stars are brightly shining, It is the night of the dear Saviour’s birth.

Long lay the world in sin and error pining.

Till He appeared and the Spirit felt its worth.

A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices, For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.

Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!

O night divine, the night when Christ was born; O night, O holy night, O night divine!

O night, O holy night, O night divine!

Led by the light of faith serenely beaming, With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.

O’er the world a star is sweetly gleaming, Now come the wisemen from out of the Orient land.

The King of kings lay thus in lowly manger; In all our trials born to be our friend.

He knows our need, our weakness is no stranger, Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!

Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!

Truly He taught us to love one another, His law is love and His gospel is peace.

Chains he shall break, for the slave is our brother.

And in his name all oppression shall cease.

Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we, With all our hearts we praise His holy name.

Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we, His power and glory ever more proclaim!

His power and glory ever more proclaim!

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Continued>

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and.

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6 Hark the Herald Angels Sing — Charles Wesley, 1739

Hark the herald angels sing ‘Glory to the newborn King!

Peace on earth and mercy mild God and sinners reconciled’ Joyful, all ye nations rise Join the triumph of the skies

Hark! The herald angels sing ‘Glory to the newborn King!’

With the angelic host proclaim: ‘Christ is born in Bethlehem’ Hark! The herald angels sing ‘Glory to the newborn King!’

Christ by highest heav’n adored Christ the everlasting Lord!

Late in time behold Him come Offspring of a Virgin’s womb Veiled in flesh the Godhead see Hail the incarnate Deity Pleased as man with man to dwell Jesus, our Emmanuel

Hail the heav’n-born Prince of Peace!

Hail the Son of Righteousness!

Light and life to all He brings Ris’n with healing in His wings Mild He lays His glory by Born that man no more may die Born to raise the sons of earth Born to give them second birth Hark! The herald angels sing ‘Glory to the newborn King!

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7 It came upon the midnight clear — Edmund Hamilton Sears, 1849 It came upon the midnight clear, That glorious song of old, From angels bending near the earth, To touch their harps of gold: “Peace on the earth, goodwill to men From heavens all gracious King!”

The world in solemn stillness lay To hear the angels sing.

al apit

Christmas

The cattle are lowing The poor Baby wakes But little Lord Jesus No crying He makes

8 Away in a manger Author unknown. 1895.

Away in a manger, No crib for His bed The little Lord Jesus Laid down His sweet head The stars in the bright sky Looked down where He lay The little Lord Jesus Asleep on the hay

I love Thee, Lord Jesus Look down from the sky And stay by my side, ’Til morning is nigh.

Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay Close by me forever And love me I pray Bless all the dear children In Thy tender care And take us to heaven To live with Thee there.

Continued>

Still through the cloven skies they come, With peaceful wings unfurled; And still their heavenly music floats O’er all the weary world: Above its sad and lowly plains They bend on hovering wing, And ever o’er its Babel sounds The blessed angels sing.

For lo! the days are hastening on, By prophets seen of old, When with the ever-circling years Shall come the time foretold, When the new heaven and earth shall own The Prince of Peace, their King, And the whole world send back the song Which now the angels sing.

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Good King Wenceslas — John M. Neale, 1818-1866

Good King Wenceslas looked out On the feast of Stephen When the snow lay round about Deep and crisp and even Brightly shone the moon that night Though the frost was cruel When a poor man came in sight Gath’ring winter fuel “Hither, page, and stand by me If thou know’st it, telling Yonder peasant, who is he?

Where and what his dwelling?”

“Sire, he lives a good league hence Underneath the mountain Right against the forest fence

By Saint Agnes’ fountain.”

“Bring me flesh and bring me wine Bring me pine logs hither Thou and I will see him dine When we bear him thither.”

Page and monarch forth they went Forth they went together Through the rude wind’s wild lament And the bitter weather “Sire, the night is darker now And the wind blows stronger Fails my heart, I know not how, I can go no longer.”

“Mark my footsteps, my good page Tread thou in them boldly Thou shalt find the winter’s rage Freeze thy blood less coldly.”

In his master’s steps he trod Where the snow lay dinted Heat was in the very sod Which the Saint had printed Therefore, Christian men, be sure Wealth or rank possessing Ye who now will bless the poor Shall yourselves find blessing.

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Christmas

Angels we have heard on high — Traditional French carol translated by Bishop James Chadwick in 1862

Angels we have heard on high Sweetly singing o’er the plains, And the mountains in reply Echoing their joyous strains.

Gloria, in excelsis Deo! Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

Come to Bethlehem and see Christ Whose birth the angels sing; Come, adore on bended knee, Christ the Lord, the newborn King.

Gloria, in excelsis Deo! Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

Shepherds, why this jubilee?

Why your joyous strains prolong?

What the gladsome tidings be Which inspire your heavenly song?

Gloria, in excelsis Deo! Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

See Him in a manger laid, Whom the choirs of angels praise; Mary, Joseph, lend your aid, While our hearts in love we raise.

Gloria, in excelsis Deo! Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

Continued>

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Song Book 11

The twelve Days of Christmas

1909 arrangement of the traditional folk melody

by English composer Frederic Austin On the first day of Christmas my true love sent to me: A partridge in a pear tree On the second day of Christmas my true love sent to me: Two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree On the third day of Christmas my true love sent to me: Three French hens two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree On the fourth day of Christmas my true love sent to me: Four calling birds three French hens two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree On the fifth day of Christmas my true love sent to me: Five golden rings four calling birds three French hens two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree On the sixth day of Christmas my true love sent to me: Six geese a-laying five golden rings four calling birds three French hens two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree

On the seventh day of Christmas my true love sent to me: Seven swans a-swimming six geese a-laying five golden rings four calling birds three French hens two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree On the eighth day of Christmas my true love sent to me: Eight maids a-milking seven swans a-swimming six geese a-laying five golden rings four calling birds three French hens two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree On the ninth day of Christmas my true love sent to me: Nine ladies dancing eight maids a-milking seven swans a-swimming six geese a-laying five golden rings four calling birds three French hens two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree On the tenth day of Christmas my true love sent to me: Ten lords a-leaping nine ladies dancing eight maids a-milking

seven swans a-swimming six geese a-laying five golden rings four calling birds three French hens two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree On the eleventh day of Christmas my true love sent to me: Eleven pipers piping ten lords a-leaping nine ladies dancing eight maids a-milking seven swans a-swimming six geese a-laying five golden rings four calling birds three French hens two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree On the twelfth day of Christmas my true love sent to me: Twelve drummers drumming eleven pipers piping ten lords a-leaping nine ladies dancing eight maids a-milking seven swans a-swimming six geese a-laying five golden rings four calling birds three French hens two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree CC

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hristmas celebrants participate in many different traditions year after year, but some may not fully understand the meaning behind such activities. A Christian holiday, Christmas did not originate with all activities centralized to the church. In fact, many of the traditions people hold dear have pagan roots, which were adapted as Christmas celebrations evolved.

People who hang mistletoe in doorways may be surprised to learn that this tradition dates back to the ancient Druids. The Druids believed mistletoe possessed mystical powers that brought good luck to the household and warded off evil spirits.

Evergreen trees are now associated with Christmas trees, but evergreen boughs were once used to decorate homes during the winter solstice to help people envision the spring to come.

Christians often look at evergreen trees as a sign of everlasting life and their relationship with God. However, while many Christmas traditions continue to be an integral part of annual celebrations, there are some customs that have fallen out of favor. Although these traditions may no longer be widely practiced, anyone can revive them and make them part of their holiday celebrations.

Wassailing is a custom that has ancient origins and is not as popular today as it once was.

“Wassail” comes from the Ango-Saxon phrase “waes hael,” which means, “good health.” Wassail is a drink made of mulled ale, spices and other

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ONCE

FEB 9 - MAR 10

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET MAR 23 - APR 14

KIM’S CONVENIENCE

Wassail is an ancient spirited beverage that was brought house-to-house with the goal of spreading Christmas cheer.

ingredients. To go wassailing meant to travel doorto-door singing and offering a drink from a wassail bowl in exchange for gifts. Wassailing has been mentioned in certain Christmas carols, including “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.”

Largely an English tradition, wassailing was brought to America by British settlers. January 17th, the old Twelfth Night, is the traditional date for wassailing. Although wassailing has largely fallen by the wayside, increased interest in ales and craft brewing may help revitalize this Christmas tradition, which can inspire community spirit.

Gifting with fruit cake is another tradition that has been much maligned and does not enjoy the same popularity that it once did. Fruit cake is a cake made with chopped candied fruit, nuts and spices and is occasionally soaked in spirits.

Fruit cakes have been enjoyed all over the world, but Americans may never have embraced the Christmas fruit cake tradition as much as those from other countries. However, with the right recipe and an open mind, it may be possible to resurrect the fruit cake tradition once again.

Mummers plays are another British tradition that arrived in North America with settlers but has largely fallen by the wayside. Mummers plays involved miming folk dramas, and the plays were commonplace around the holiday season.

Celebrants may want to research such dramas and include them in this year’s festivities to liven up celebrations even more.

Traditions passed on through the years help make Christmas a favorite time of celebration.

People may want to explore the less popular traditions today and once again make them interesting parts of this year’s festivities. –MC C

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Downtown Sidney

Sidney Merchants Open House Sat Dec 2nd 5 to 8:30 pm.

Experience Christmas in Sidney On and Off the Avenue.

Support Local Sidney Shops This Christmas Season.

Dream a Little Dream…

T

Holiday Happenings in Sidney!

he holidays are just around the corner.

So why not give yourself a head start and toss in a bit of holiday sparkle by Carol Singers Stroll the Town Every Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 4 pm. enjoying the warm, welcoming Merchants Open House put on by Sidney businesses on Saturday, December 2 from 5 to 8:30 p.m. During this annual event, merchants welcome shoppers not only with a wide selection of beautifully made goods and great service but also with special holiday treats, tasty drinks, and a chance to chat with friends and neighbors. It’s all a great start to the holiday season Sidney looks spectacular at this time of year. Check out the beautiful shop windows, bright and sparkling. Merchants pull out all the stops at this special time of the year, so enjoy a bit of holiday magic as you stroll around town with a warm drink and friends or family.

And take delight in the traditional carolers who will stroll the streets of Sidney during the Merchants Open House, capturing the warmth of a small-town Christmas and singing seasonal favorites. Feel free to sing along! The carolers will also perform on Saturdays and Sundays, December 2 to 23, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Between 5 and 8:30 p.m., also during the Merchants Open House, you can take pleasure in a free carriage tour through downtown Sidney. Offered

by Victoria Carriage Tours on a first come/first served basis, this is a charming way to begin the holiday season.

The Carriage Tours also will be available on Saturdays and Sundays between December 3 and 23, from 12 p.m.

to 4 p.m., at a minimal cost of only $30 per carriage.

Each carriage seats up to six. The tours fill up quickly, so please book as soon as possible: 250-883-3651. (reservations highly recommended!)

Santa has ordered up several family-friendly events for kids of all ages too. Check out the gingerbread houses hidden in shops throughout the Town. Find 12 and enter to win one of three great prizes! Entry forms are found in the December printed Events Calendar.

At the Mary Winspear Centre (MWC), you can view the Festival of Trees, a beautiful collection of trees decorated by local organizations and businesses. Vote for your favorite and drop off a new unwrapped gift for Peninsula Santa’s Helpers or make a donation to the Sidney Lions Food Bank.

Be sure to visit the Sidney Museum too which celebrates Christmas with a unique display of holiday teddy bears. The exhibit runs from November 16 to December 31, every day between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., except Christmas and Boxing Day. Admission by donation.

Adding to the holiday spirit, you can win a little magic, just by making a purchase at a participating Sidney merchant between December 2 and 23. The Sidney BIA is pleased to announce a special “scratch and win” promotion with outstanding prizes that include a night at the Pier Hotel, spa treatments, restaurant and cafe vouchers and many, many more. Yet another reason to enjoy the holiday season in Sidney!

So dream a little dream in Sidney this holiday season, where there is truly something for everyone! Check out distinctlysidney.ca for additional details. CC

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Keep

poinsettias looking great

through the holidays

A

long with the fragrant evergreens and twinkling lights synonymous with the holiday season, poinsettias make up a key component of holiday decorating.

Unlike holly and some of the other greenery that is commonly associated with the holidays, poinsettias do not naturally thrive in the colder temperatures. These plants originate in southern Mexico and were considered an exotic plant when first introduced

by Joel Robert Poinsett, the first American ambassador to Mexico.

Poinsettias can be fickle plants and ones that gardening novices may find challenging to maintain. The plants are comprised of green foliage, colourful (often red) flower bracts, and the actual flowers of the plants, which are the red

or green buttonlike parts nestled in the centre of the bracts.

Because they are a tropical plant, poinsettias can be damaged by exposure to low temperatures, even if they are only exposed for short periods of time. They should be wrapped and protected against the elements when brought home.

For maximum plant life, poinsettias need to be placed near a warm, sunny window, or another area that has ample amounts of light. They thrive in temperatures between 60 and 75 F and should be kept away from warm or cold drafts.

Water the plant whenever the surface feels dry to the touch. Water until it drains out the bottom, but don’t let the plant sit in water. Over- or under-watering can cause leaves to drop prematurely and wilt.

If your home lacks in humidity, you may need to water the plant more frequently.

Poinsettias do not need to be fertilized while the plant is in bloom.

Poinsettias can be reflowered the following Christmas, but unless a year-long schedule of care is observed, the results usually are not good. Speak with a gardening expert or consult online resources for the proper care schedule.

Caring for a poinsettia yearround involves gradually drying out the plant and storing it in a cool location. The plant later will be moved outdoors and then back inside and pruned to keep a full shape.

Poinsettias are short-day plants, which means they flower about 10 weeks after the daylight shortens to about 12 hours or less. Therefore, to have the plant in full flower

by Christmas, it will have

to be kept in complete darkness between 5 p.m. and 8 a.m. from the first part of October until the end of November. Many people find the affordability of poinsettias makes it more convenient to buy new ones each year rather than trying to foster regrowth.

Contrary to popular belief, poinsettias are not poisonous to humans or animals, but they should not be ingested due to the potential for allergic reactions. Poinsettias can help remove pollutants from indoor air, which is advantageous during the winter months when doors and windows are typically kept closed.

Select plants that have dark green foliage and no low or damaged leaves. This ensures the best success for keeping poinsettias looking healthy and vibrant throughout the holiday season. –MC

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26th Annual Victoria Festival of Trees The trees are displayed from November 16th, 2017 to January 2nd, 2018 along the balconies overlooking centre court on Levels 2 and 3, and are accessible during regular business hours of The Bay Centre.

Habitat for Humanity’s Gingerbread Showcase at The Parkside Hotel & Spa “We are absolutely delighted to be the new location for such a wonderful and festive event,” says Trina White, General Manager of The Parkside Hotel & Spa. “We love supporting our community and being able to help Habitat for Humanity continue the Showcase to help local families achieve homeownership is a true honour.”

Join us for the 26th Annual Victoria Festival of Trees in support of BC Children’s Hospital. With the help of sponsors, the festival transforms The Bay Centre into an enchanted holiday forest celebrating our local community and its generosity. The trees are displayed from November 16th, 2017 to January 2nd, 2018 along the balconies overlooking centre court on Levels 2 and 3, and are accessible during regular business hours of The Bay Centre. We invite you to bring your family and friends to tour the displays and vote for your favorite to help select the winner of the 2017 People’s Choice award. All voters will be entered to win a $500 gift card to The Bay Centre.

On average, seven children from Vancouver Island are admitted to BC Children’s Hospital each day, two of which will come Victoria. In fact, 66% of patients treated at BC Children’s come from outside the Vancouver area. It is the only hospital in the province dedicated to treating critically ill and injured children

and the only pediatric teaching hospital in BC, providing highly specialized training to the medical professionals of tomorrow.

Thanks to the generosity of our community, the Victoria Festival of Trees has raised over $1.6 million dollars to support our community’s sickest kids. This year, funds raised will purchase a new transport monitor for the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and go towards The Excellence in Child Health Fund which supports research into childhood diseases, life-saving equipment, rehabilitation, and the most urgent needs of the hospital.

An exciting feature is Text-to-Vote, sponsored by Rashida Malik of Royal LePage, which allows visitors to skip the voting stations and donate directly through their cell phones. If you love all the displays and can’t pick a favourite, text TREE to 45678 to make a general donation.

Once again, tourists and locals alike will be enchanted and awed by the magnificent displays fashioned out of gingerbread and other edible delicacies at the Habitat’s annual Gingerbread Showcase. The event brings together professional and amateur bakers who pull out all the stops with their talent and creativity.

And new this year, the Showcase will now be displayed in the stunning atrium of The Parkside Hotel & Spa. Opening on Saturday, November 18, 2017 and continuing daily from 9am to 9pm until January 2, 2018, this central location makes an ideal starting point for all your holiday activities!

Much more than houses, the Showcase’s elaborate creations are detailed sculptures and unique works of art.

Following some key criteria, the most important being that it be made of 100 per cent edible (but please, no eating!) material, chefs often spend hundreds of hours designing and constructing their creations. This year’s theme is Celebrating Canada.

Everyone is invited to view the sweet creations and vote for their favourite in exchange for a donation to Habitat Victoria. Last year’s event raised $50,000 thanks to the generosity of the more than 20,000 visitors who made a visit to the Showcase part of their holiday tradition. All donations go directly to helping bring strength, stability and independence to families living in need of decent, affordable housing.

Learn more at: habitatvictorica.com.

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Santa Claus is coming to town!

Wishing all our customers and friends a fun, flirty and fabulous Christmas!

​Begin your Christmas Season in Victoria with the magical Island Farms Santa’s Light Parade on Nov. 25 beginning at the Inner Harbour at 4:45 p.m.

Floats and bands, entertainment and lots of fun for the entire family.

Afterwards, meet up at Centennial Square for refreshments from Island Farms and witness Santa officially declare Christmas in Victoria open.

Remember to bring a donation for the Mustard Seed Food Bank.

– TC file photo.

C

Locally Owned

Mon.-Sat. 10:00-5:30 • Sun. and Holidays 11:00-5:00 pm

103-2506 Beacon Avenue, Sidney | 778 426 3356 | www.marmaladetart.com

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DECEMBER 1 - 25:

FESTIVE DESK

| 11am – 6pm ‘Tis the season to give and receive, whether it is to yourself, someone special or a corporate gift: • Turkey-to-Go Complete Christmas Dinner with optional add-on desserts • small or large Empress Holiday Hampers • gift cards and many more festive goodies

DECEMBER 1 - JANUARY 2:

FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA

| 11am – 5pm Traditional Afternoon Tea during the festive season with famous seasonal offerings and classic desserts. $75 for adults, $37.50 for children. For reservations please call 250-389-2727.

DECEMBER 16:

KID’S CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE

| 12pm – 3pm Perfect for parents and their kids. Champagne and canapés for Mom and Dad, Christmas activities and a candy buffet for the kids! $50 per one child and one parent. Please inquire for larger groups.

DECEMBER 24:

MEET MRS. CLAUS

| 6pm • 7pm • 8pm Bring the family to meet Santa Claus’ lovely wife for a special reading of Christmas stories while everybody snuggles up to enjoy milk and cookies.

Free event

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10/30/17 12:11:07 PM

CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER

| 5:00-9:00pm Location: Q Restaurant Four-course set menu, with the option of wine pairing. $79 for adults, 50% off for children, +$45 for wine pairings

CHRISTMAS DAY DINNER

| 4:00 - 9:00pm Location: Q Restaurant | Maximum table size of 10 Five-course set menu. Featured offers on select wines. $175 for adults, 50% off for children

CHRISTMAS DAY DINNER BUFFET | 3:00pm, 5:00pm, 7:00pm seatings Location: Crystal Ballroom Enjoy the chef attended carving stations, seafood, classic Christmas dishes, and a children’s buffet. Live piano music. $109* for adults, 50% off for children

NEW YEARS EVE DINNER IN Q | From 7:30pm Location: Q Restaurant Celebrate the New Year at Q at The Empress. Five-course set menu with wine pairing option served. Choice of appetizer & choice of main; large grand finale dessert buffet in the Lobby Lounge to follow dinner. $210 for adults, 50% off for children, +$90.00 for wine pairings, NEW YEARS EVE DINNER BUFFET | From 7:30pm Location: Crystal Ballroom Appealing, modern, current, chef attended action stations, festive buffet in palm court, cash bar, wine selection. Live music from adjacent Lobby Lounge. $175* for adults NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA PARTY | From 9:00pm-1:00am Price: Included in your choice of dinner options above Location: Lobby Lounge After enjoying dinner in Q or the Crystal Ballroom, dance in the new year with live music at the most elegant New Year’s Eve party in Canada’s most romantic city, Victoria! Enjoy a live performance by Amanda Woods - a local jazz and pop singer/ songwriter. Includes a complimentary glass of sparkling wine at midnight. Black tie *price subject to automatic 15% gratuity

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TAKE THE ELEVATOR HOME AFTER THE NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER & GALA Experience the New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet in the historic Crystal Ballroom, then ring in the new year at Victoria’s premier New Year’s Eve event, the Empress’ Gala. Package includes 20% off accommodations. Prices starting from $615 per night (based on double occupancy).

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CapitalChristmas_2017_60pgs.indd 47

qattheempress.com

10/30/17 12:11:08 PM

Enjoy an

eco-friendly

holiday season

T With the Victoria Symphony

Royal Theatre

Dec 28 | 7:30 pm Dec 29 - 30 | 2:00 pm Tickets: balletvictoria.ca | 250-386-6121

P AUL D ESTROOPER - A RTISTIC D IRECTOR BALLET VICTORIA

he color green is synonymous with the holiday season, as Christmas trees, mistletoe and holiday wreaths feature prominently throughout the month of December. But there are ways to make this holiday season even greener.

Going green around the house can save homeowners substantial amounts of money and benefit the planet in various ways. Yet come the holiday season, many people unintentionally eschew eco-friendly practices in an effort to make their homes as festive as possible. Fortunately, there are several ways to enjoy an eco-friendly holiday season.

• Choose LED holiday lights. Holiday lighting displays help make the season even more special. But traditional incandescent holiday lights consume considerable amounts of energy and burn out much more quickly than

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more eco-friendly alternatives. According to Energy.gov, LED holiday lights consume less energy than incandescent holiday lights, and they’re also safer because LED lights burn cool, reducing the risk of combustion.

In addition, LED lights are more resistant to breaking than incandescent bulbs, which should please homeowners who want to avoid broken or burned out bulbs that can ruin holiday lighting displays.

• Get creative with wrapping paper. The United States Environmental Protection Agency notes that household waste increases by 25 percent between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. That translates to about one million extra tons of waste in the roughly five-week holiday season. Much of that waste is wrapping paper. Instead of purchasing holiday wrapping paper that will ultimately end up in landfills, wrap gifts in reusable gift bags or old newspapers lying around the house. If you must use wrapping paper, choose recycled paper. In addition, save bows, ribbons and undamaged wrapping paper to use again next season.

• Turn down the thermostat. Holiday music fans know that the weather outside can be frightful during the holiday season. But holiday hosts inviting friends and family over this year can turn down the thermostat to save energy and make conditions inside the home more comfortable. Extra bodies inside the house will warm the place up, allowing homeowners to turn down the thermostat during parties. If you’re traveling for the season, program your thermostat so you’re not heating an empty home.

• Send e-cards. Holiday cards are a tradition in many families. But paper cards contribute heavily to that extra million tons of holidayrelated waste noted by the EPA. In lieu of paper cards, send e-cards. E-cards can be emailed to friends and family, saving the cost of postage and the fuel required to deliver those cards. In addition, e-cards save families the hassle of signing each individual card.

The holiday season is not the most ecofriendly time of year, but celebrants can take steps to reduce their carbon footprints between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.CC

48 | Capital Christmas

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10/30/17 12:11:15 PM

Foxtrot Tango Whiskey Winter drinks to warm you up.

Capital Christmas | 49

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10/30/17 12:11:18 PM

FoxtrotTangoWhiskey When Jack Frost starts nipping at your nose, it's time to stir up a little something to warm you up!

W

inter in Victoria can be treacherous, with our weather being anything from cool and dry to snow banks; all of which could happen in the same day. Christmas in Victoria is beautiful, we still have leaves on trees, the crisp air nips at your ears and fingertips and the sea breeze off James Bay is refreshing.

Bartenders in Victoria have always taken this opportunity to master the hot beverage to take the edge off the cold when their guests join them at the bar.

Solomon Siegel, Victoria’s godfather of cocktail culture takes his holiday tradition to new heights mastering the somewhat difficult punch. He remarks that “Since I got married and now have an extended family that does celebrate Christmas, I started a new tradition of making a big bowl of Tom & Jerry batter in the morning. I use a mortar & pestle to crush the spices and follow the

professor’s recipe. All day long I dole out the batter with hot water or milk and mix it with rum & brandy.

They make everyone happy and I feel I am caring on a time-honoured bartending tradition” While eggnog is a love-hate beverage for many people, classic nogs and flips are balanced, delectable and when done right change many a person’s mind from the sickly-sweet carton variety. Simon Ogden has his take on a flip over at Veneto in the Hotel Rialto. Flips are cocktails with a whole egg, hard shaken and strained; making a velvety custardy texture combine with the liquor and garnished with nutmeg.

Ogden’s rendition combines classic Christmas flavors in a glass.

Clive’s Classic Lounge head bartender Jayce Kadyschuk enjoys a warm tea cocktail in the style of an amped up Hot Toddy. A toddy is another vintage style cocktail that makes a resurgence

of the colder winter months. Jayce combines high proof rye with complex sweeteners of Benedictine and falernum along Silk Road’s Snow Apple Tea. This drink can be made in bigger batch for a party of cold, visiting guests.

Over at Foxtrot Tango Whisky Bar, they use a vacupot that would be more at home at a coffee shop than behind the bar. Using an immersion circulator along with a halogen lamp, they combine rum, calvados & cider and let infused in the vacupot before being poured over a spiced cider butter syrup. The hot buttered rum for one is long, slightly sweet and spicy; the perfect way to warm up.

Wherever you decide to go in winter in Victoria, most bars will have hot punches, drinks, toddies, flips and a myriad of other winter themed drinks on the menu. Head out in the chill, there are plenty of places to warm up.

50 | Capital Christmas

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10/30/17 12:11:27 PM

The recipes Hand-Ritten Letter 1 ½ oz. Rittenhouse rye ½ oz. Benedictine ½ oz. House Amaro falernum

HOME OF THE $8 NEGRONI

4 oz Snow Apple Spice tea (Silk Road) Method:

Combine rye, Benedictine and falernum in tea glass. Steep tea 2 to 3 minutes, then pour into glass. Stir and serve.

Garnish with one whole star anise- floating on surface. Serve in a vintage hot cocktail glass.

The Yukon Cornelius 2 oz. Chai spice-infused Canadian rye whiskey

Grated nutmeg and cinnamon

d Items oo or

f

$3l0 l

Method:

Dry shake all of the ingredients together,

W

ng

!

1 Whole egg

3F

½ oz. Chestnut-infused syrup A whisper of Menthe Pastille mint liqueur

A in te r L o

then stir briskly with ice and strain into a chilled punch cup. Finish with a little freshly grated nutmeg and cinnamon.

Cheers! C Courtesy of the Foxtrot Tango Whisky Bar 722 Humbolt Street in Victoria ftwbar.com

Happy Hours: 5pm-6pm & 11pm-12am

OPEN TUES-SUN 5PM - 12AM 1002 BLANSHARD ST. @ BROUGHTON

Capital Christmas | 51

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10/30/17 12:11:32 PM

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10/30/17 12:11:35 PM

A Christmas Eve Tradition

By Eric Akis

In Quebec, nearly every French Canadian family has its special recipe for tourtière, which stars in Christmas Eve feasts.

Family traditions make December and Christmas a special time of year. For me, these involve the pilgrimage to get the perfect tree, witnessing my wife turn our mantel into a winter wonderland with her beloved trinkets, and caringly packing goodie-filled parcels to send to distant loved ones.

I also look forward to making tourtière to enjoy on Christmas Eve. That tradition came from my late Montreal-born FrenchCanadian mother, or "Mud-der," as we adoringly called her because of her rich accent.

I, too, was born in Quebec, but my father's military career transported our family out of the province shortly after my birth. While I was growing up, we lived in all three Prairie provinces and northwestern Ontario.

My mom did what she could to keep her culture alive in these far-from-home places, which is how I learned about, and began to relish eating, tourtière. In Quebec, she told me, this savoury meat pie is traditionally eaten at Réveillon, a Christmas Eve feast enjoyed after midnight mass.

It was also enjoyed at other special occasions and could be found on the tables of both rich and poor. Mud-der, being number 17 of 19 children (that's not a typo), was definitely in the latter category.

Unlike tender roasts and plump turkeys, tourtière was accessible to most folk because of the modest ingredients used to make it - pastry and a humble filling made with ground or cubed meat, depending on the part of Quebec you were from. Nicely seasoned and served up with cheer, it could bring a smile to one's face on the coldest night of the year.

According to Bill Cassel-man's fascinating book, Canadian Food Words, tour-tière took its name from the utensil in which it was baked. He says the original tourtière, in French print by 1573, was a pie pan for tourtes. In old French cookery, he says, a tourte was a round pastry pie filled with meat or vegetable, or fruit and cream.

QJH

In Quebec, the savoury tourtière took hold, with pork the preferred ground meat.

However, these days, in some recipes, other types of ground meat are combined with the pork.

How many, or how few flavourings are combined with the meat can vary greatly from family recipe to recipe. Onion, potatoes, spices such as cinnamon, clove and black pepper, and herbs such as savoury, thyme and sage are ingredients I've seen listed in recipes.

In a past column and in two cookbooks, I've published a recipe called Eric's tourtière, the one that I make every year for my family that contains wonderfully spiced ground pork, veal and beef. So, to offer you another version, I decided to come up with a tourtière that contained some flavourings popular in the place tourtière took its name from: France.

In today's recipe for pork and veal tourtière, that meant deliciously flavouring

the meat with such things as green peppercorns, shallots, Dijon mustard and herbes de Provence, a French-style blend of herbs.

I make the filling for tourtière the day before making the pie. Sitting in the refrigerator overnight gives the filling flavours a chance to meld and become even richer. However, if time is short, you can skip this step and assemble and bake the tourtière as soon as the filling has cooled to room temperature.

Never put a warm filling into a pie crust, as it will cause the fat in the pastry to melt and seep out and you won't end up with flaky, tender pastry.

I like to serve tourtière with such things as pickled beets and other vegetables, mustard pickles, chutneys and relishes homemade if you have them.

Because tourtière is pretty rich, a light and colourful green salad is a nice accompaniment.

ŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐ >ŝŐŚƚƐ ĐƌŽƐƐ ĂŶĂĚĂ dŚĞ ,ŽŶ͘ ĂƌƌLJů WůĞĐĂƐ͕ ^ƉĞĂŬĞƌ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ >ĞŐŝƐůĂƟǀĞ ƐƐĞŵďůLJ͕ ŝŶǀŝƚĞƐ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ĐĞůĞďƌĂƚĞ ƚŚĞ ůŝŐŚƟŶŐ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ƉƌŽǀŝŶĐŝĂů ŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐ ƚƌĞĞ ĂŶĚ WĂƌůŝĂŵĞŶƚ ƵŝůĚŝŶŐƐ͘ ŶũŽLJ ĨĞƐƟǀĞ ĐŚŽƌĂů ĂŶĚ ďĂŶĚ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞƐ͕ ƐĞĂƐŽŶĂů ƚƌĞĂƚƐ ĂŶĚ Ă ƐƉĞĐŝĂů ĚŝƐĐŽƵŶƚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ŐŝŌ ƐŚŽƉ͊

dƵĞƐĚĂLJ͕ EŽǀĞŵďĞƌ Ϯϴ͕ ϮϬϭϳ 6:30 pm, Parliament Buildings

Capital Christmas | 53

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10/30/17 12:11:56 PM

BLUE BRIDGE REPERTORY THEATRE

fresh classics!

BLUE BRIDGE Includes admission to the 8 pm performance of Blue Bridge Sings! a celebration of 10 years of Blue Bridge musicals starring Sara-Jeanne Hosie and Kholby Wardell and guests under the musical direction of Chris Donison.

Roxy Theatre, 2657 Quadra St.

A celebration of Blue Bridge and the musical NOV. 30-DEC 3

CLASSIC RADIO DRAMA

Our

beloved radio series is back for Christmas with perennial favourite It’s A Wonderful Life plus Shop Around the Corner

DEC. 14-17

Tickets online or 250.382.3370 Roxy Theatre, 2657 Quadra Street bluebridgetheatre.ca

PORK AND VEAL TOURTIèRE WITH PEPPERCORNS AND HERBES DE PROVENCE Savoury tourtière richly flavoured with a splash of red wine, mildly spicy green peppercorns, tangy mustard and a wonderful blend of herbs.

Preparation time: 40 minutes, plus overnight chilling of the filling.

Cooking time: About 70 minutes.

Makes: 8 servings Ingredients:

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CapitalChristmas_2017_60pgs.indd 54

3/4 lb ground pork 3/4 lb ground veal 1/3 cup finely chopped shallot (2 small to medium shallots) 2 medium garlic cloves, minced 1 tsp herbes de Provence (see note) 2 to 3 tsp green peppercorns, drained and coarsely chopped (see note) 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground clove 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour 1 cup chicken stock 1/4 cup red wine 1 cup small (about 1/4-inch) potato cubes, boiled until just tender, drained and cooled 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard 2 green onions, very thinly sliced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 1 (10-inch) deep-dish double crust pie shell Egg wash (1 large egg mixed with 2 Tbsp milk) Method:

Place ground meats, shallots and garlic in a pot over medium heat. Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until meat is cooked through and no longer pink. At that point, drain away excess fat. (If there are still noticeable clumps of meat, use a potato masher to create a smooth meat mixture.) Add the herbes de Provence, green peppercorns, cinnamon, clove and flour and mix well to combine.

While stirring, slowly pour in the stock and wine. Simmer the meat mixture until the liquid has almost evaporated, and then mix in potatoes, mustard and green onions.

Season the meat mixture with salt and pepper. Remove from the heat, cool to room temperature, cover, and refrigerate filling overnight.

Evenly pack the filling into bottom pie crust. Brush the edges of the pastry with egg-wash. Set the top crust on, crimping the edges to seal. Trim off excess pastry. Brush the top of tourtière with egg-wash. Cut a small hole in the centre of the tourtière to

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911 Yates St. Next to London Drugs allow steam to escape. Refrigerate tour-tière 20 minutes, to allow the pastry to firm up.

Preheat oven 425 F. Bake tourtière in the middle of the oven 20 minutes.

Reduce heat to 350 F and cook 25 to 30 minutes more, or until pastry is cooked and nicely browned top and bottom. Allow tourtière to set 10 to 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Note: Green peppercorns, packed in brine, are sold in jars or cans in the pickle aisle of most supermarkets. Herbes de Provence is available in bottled herb and spice aisle of most supermarkets.

Eric's options: You could make the tourtière several hours before needed and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.

This tourtière, unbaked, also freezes well.

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. If you do either of these things, add a few minutes to the baking time, as you'll be starting with a very cold product.

FLAKY PIE DOUGH In this recipe, the generous amount of shortening and a touch of butter creates an ultra-flaky crust once baked.

3 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp salt 1 1/4 cups cold vegetable shortening, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 1 large egg, beaten with 1/3 cup ice-cold water Combine flour and salt in a bowl. With a pastry cutter or two forks (or the paddle attachment of your mixer), cut shortening and butter into the flour until well blended.

Pour egg/water mixture into the bowl; gently work until it forms a loose, moist dough that just holds together. Transfer to a lightly floured work surface. With lightly floured hands, shape dough into a ball. Cut in half. Press each half into a 1/2-inch-thick disk. Wrap and refrigerate each disk for 20 minutes before rolling out. If you've chilled the dough more than 20 minutes so the fat in it is very firm, let the dough warm at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out.

Eric's options: The dough, if tightly wrapped and kept refrigerated, could be prepared up to two days in advance.

Preparation time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: See main recipe. Makes: Dough for 1 doublecrust pie, or 2 single-crust pies.

C

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2017 - 7 PM McPHERSON PLAYHOUSE VICTORIA

Tickets at McPherson Box Office.

Call 250-386-6121 or toll free 1-888-717-6121.

Purchase tickets online at www.rmts.bc.ca

THE ONLY APPEARANCE ON VANCOUVER ISLAND

Capital Christmas | 55

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10/30/17 12:44:10 PM

Santa's Helpers Helping Others While Celebrating the Holidays

by Katie Lauder

L

ooking to make a positive impact in your community this holiday season? Volunteering is an easy and meaningful way to make a significant difference for someone in need.

Cool Aid volunteers build strong, safe, and supportive communities for all. Volunteers show they care, and share the belief that no one should be without a warm place to call home, a nutritious meal, health care services and support.

Every act of kindness makes a meaningful impact for those we serve.

Cool Aid is seeking volunteers this holiday season for the following positions:

information. The experience is one that you’ll always remember with a sense of meaning and fulfillment.

Writer of Stories Are you looking for a volunteer opportunity that allows you to have a direct impact while using your writing skills? Homeless Partners is looking for Volunteer Storytellers, to sit down with a shelter resident one-on-one for a guided, 15-minute interview.

Storytellers then write down the personal story, along with the person’s Christmas wishlist, to be posted to the Homelesspartners website. Members of the community browse the stories and pledge to fulfill a wish.

To volunteer, or to provide a personal Christmas present to someone in need, go to the homelesspartners.com website and click on Contact to send a message with your contact

Shelter Elves Sandy Merriman House, Cool Aid’s emergency shelter for women, is seeking three volunteers for Christmas Day and three volunteers for New Year’s Day, to help prep and serve a hot, nutritious lunch for their 25 residents. Contact Christine at: 250-480-1408 to learn more.

If you’d like to volunteer but aren’t sure what the right fit is for you, visit: CoolAid.org/ volunteer, fill out an application form and check out the volunteer opportunities.

Not able to volunteer but would still like to help? When the weather turns wet and cold, Cool Aid’s need for warm and waterproof clothing is at its greatest. Your donation of socks, coats, pants or hygiene products

go directly to someone in need.

Check out CoolAid.org/goods for a detailed list of current client needs and drop-off locations.

Financial donations are welcome and always needed.

Thanks, in part, to the generous donors in the past year Cool Aid housed 457 tenants in 14 buildings, ensured 1,631 shelter residents had a warm, safe place to sleep with nutritious meals, provided medical and dental care to over 7,000 patients, and a variety of support services.

Consider becoming a monthly donor. It’s the easiest way to ensure a manageable amount for you and has the greatest impact, and allows Cool Aid to plan long term. Donations can be made online at: CoolAid.org/donate, or by contacting Katie Lauder or Alan Rycroft at: 250-383-1977.

Thank you for thinking about Cool Aid’s clients this holiday season! C

You can help others less fortunate this holiday season.

Your contribution, whether through volunteering, a monetary gift, or even a pair of warm socks or gloves, can help make someone else's christmas just a little bit brighter.

56 | Capital Christmas

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10/30/17 12:12:14 PM

How You Can Help 'Our Place'

"I

hate to voice this aloud, but it feels like winter is coming on strong, wet and cold this year. Brrr.

And while those of us lucky enough to have a warm home and loving family embrace to escape the weather, hundreds upon hundreds of people living in poverty need to turn to Our Place for that respite.

With this weather in mind, Our Place has extended its hours until 9 p.m., seven days a week to bridge the gap between when we normally close, after supper at 6 p.m., and when the night shelters open. Because of those extended hours, we have lots more opportunities for volunteers on evenings and weekends.

At Our Place, we look after hundreds of vulnerable people every day, and often it starts with a simple smile and nod of 'hello' from a volunteer as he or she serves up a warm bowl of oatmeal or steaming cup of coffee.

For someone who has spent the night huddled in a doorway or in a tent, you would be amazed at what that genuine moment of welcome means to them.

Our Place has volunteers

who have been with us for years, decades even, and who have come to know our 'family members' (a term of affection we use for everyone who walks through our door) as their family, too.

At Christmas, we often get people wanting to volunteer for a day, which is great, but we really need people who are willing to commit to staying with us for a while, and who can help out in those cold, winter months when the family has so little to look forward to.

It only takes a few hours a week to make a lasting impact. There are lots of opportunities to find a shift that works best for you.

Another easy way to give back is through something most of us take for granted, and that is clean underwear and socks. As you can imagine, if you are living outdoors, especially when it’s raining, clean, dry socks and underwear become a precious commodity. These are the two items we hand out the most on a daily basis, and are easy to pick up the next time you go shopping.

Simply drop them off at the reception area of Our Place, 919 Pandora Ave., any time, day or night. Our security

staff work 24-7.

At Our Place, we like to say that everything that comes in goes straight back out to the family. We never charge for anything, so every donated blanket, piece of clothing or hygiene product goes directly to someone in need.

We are especially looking for blankets, men’s clothing: jeans, shoes, shirts, T-shirts, warm coats, etc. Plus rain gear, tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, feminine hygiene products, all the types of things one needs to survive outdoors.

We also need financial donations. Our Place exists because of our donors, and we simply couldn’t keep our doors open without your generosity. Last year, we served over to 745,000 meals to hungry people, and that was in large part due to financial donations from supporters. Every donation helps, no matter the size.

Donations can be dropped off at Our Place or easily made online by visiting: ourplacesociety.com.

And, if possible, we would love to see you become a monthly donor as that helps us budget year-round. Thank you for thinking of Our Place.

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Capital Christmas | 57

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10/30/17 12:12:23 PM

Humour

Jack Knox Columnist, Times Colonist

Dad Friday

B

lack Friday, we are told, is too late.

The day after American Thanksgiving, Black Friday — Nov. 24 this year — traditionally marks the beginning of the Christmas shopping/riot season in the U.S. Famous for A) big savings; and B) a casualty count higher than that at Stalingrad, it’s a day of consumer-on-consumer violence, one in which the hashtag #Walmart-fights trends on Twitter and posts of Customers Gone Wild fill your social media feed. The website BlackFridayDeathCount.com says 10 people have been killed and 105 injured over the past decade.

The ho-ho-hold-my-purse-while-I-slug-this-guy scenes are no longer just an American thing either. Smug Canadians who chortle at the festive fisticuffs down in Trumpistan should note that one of last year’s most-celebrated incidents was in Vancouver, where several fights erupted outside a Granville Street store, including one in which a shirtless man was filmed using his belt as a whip.

This is because Canadian retailers, too, were forced to adopt Black Friday a few years ago. It was an act of self-defence, done to stanch the flow of cross-border shoppers. If we didn’t start our sales as early as the Americans, they would get the business, it was reasoned.

Except recently, the Americans have been jumping their own gun.

Some analysts say Black Friday is way too late now. Shoppers go looking for deep discounts as early as mid-October, when the last of the school supplies are still rattling around the back of the shelves.

At least that lets consumers dodge the Black Friday tension, the analysts say.

To which I reply: Cowards.

You think Black Friday is pressure-packed? Try Dad Friday.

Dad Friday is the traditional start of the shopping season for husbands and fathers. It falls each year at the same time: the last Friday before Christmas — unless the Canucks are on TV that night, in which case it starts Christmas Eve. (As a reader pointed out after I wrote about holiday shopping a couple of years ago: “The 23rd is for wimps. The 24th is when you really get the smell of battle; blood, sweat and fear mingling with the acrid vapours from overworked cash registers. God, I love it.”)

Dad Friday shoppers don’t get rattled. They just wait until the turkey is thawing, then roll off the couch and ask the closest child, “what size is your mother?” before ambling to the mall, where the selection of goods has been nicely thinned out.

By Dad Friday, 90 per cent of shoppers are men. A few appear totally lost and panic-stricken, like a deer picking its way through Pat Bay traffic at rush hour, but those with balls of holly move with a sense of mission, like Matt Damon in a Bourne movie.

Either way, the cash register queue looks like the men’s room line at Beer Fest.

And when we say cash register, we’re not going about Sak’s Fifth Avenue either. If the gift card doesn’t smell like a 7-Eleven hot dog, it means dad lost his water and started shopping early.

Not everyone has this kind of pluck. Last year, my own beloved, in the midst of doing all the wrapping, doing all the shipping, buying the tree, decorating the tree, decorating the house, cleaning the house, cooking the turkey and running out to buy the cranberry sauce (“the one thing I asked you to pick up”) allowed that she had started shopping in November.

I explained to her that this was because she was slow and inefficient. “The important thing,” I added “is I forgive you.”

Then she began carefully and deliberately sharpening the turkey knife, which I thought was a good use of her time, seeing as she was already done wrapping the gifts that she bought way too early. CC

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