Winter 2016-17 + Holiday Issue: Issue 27

free MAGAZINE

VANCOUVER ISLAND

COUPON AND AFFORDABLE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE | FALL/WINTER 2016

ON THE COVER: Red Barn Market In-House Double Smoked Cheddar

1550's Pub Pairings with Driftwood Brews

ISSUE 27

Affordable Holiday Wine Pairings WITH SOMMELIER MEGAN THOMPSON PAGE 9

Embracing Our Truth with Life Coach, Inspirational Speaker & Writer, Victoria Johnson

PAGE 7

PAGE 7

HUNDREDS OF

savings

almostfreemagazine.com

IN COUPONS

2

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL/WINTER 2016

Air Polishing for THAT Affordable Bright Smile – A quick way to remove stains from red wine, coffee, and berries for that naturally bright smile –

Air Polishing - brighten your teeth for that special occasion or just because...

Do you have an upcoming wedding, reunion, graduation, or getaway?

Air polishing is the #1 recommended treatment for braces.

Do you have embarrassing stains? The most effective and efficient way to remove surface stains and plaque.

Ways Your Oral Health is Directly Linked to your Overall Health: • improves self esteem • Dental hygiene decreases inflammation and infection in the body which decreases stress on the body (linked to diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and other diseases) • oral cancer screening • blood pressure monitoring The knowledgeable and friendly dental hygienists at Focus on Dental Hygiene are compassionate of your dental health needs. Their warm and inviting environment offers the latest in ultrasonic scaling and air polishing technology.

Your comfort is their focus.

– Your independent dental hygiene choice – Services for You with a Hygiene Appointment: • •

• • • • • •

Cheri Wu, RDH, BDSc, Owner

Free oral hygiene assessments Free oral cancer screening with Velscope technology Needle-free anesthesia Teeth cleaning Air polishing or traditional polishing Whitening services We accept dental insurance We work independently with your dentist for comprehensive care.

Give Focus on Dental Hygiene a call or drop by to see about availability – your teeth are as unique as you are!

IN ADDITIONAL TO REGULAR HOURS, THEY OFFER EXTENDED HOURS TO MEET YOUR BUSY SCHEDULE.

141 Menzies St, Victoria (250) 590-1931 www.focusondh.com

Meet the Team: RECEPTION: Warren, Kim, Chandra and their little rescue dog Roscoe will welcome you at the door and answer any service related questions you may have—they take most dental insurance plans and don’t forget to ask about the Senior’s Discount.

HYGIENISTS: Cheri Wu, owner, dental hygienist and educator, takes great pride in her innovative clinic and awards for dental hygiene excellence. Cheri Wu, RDH, BDSc, Denise, RDH, BDSc, Heather D, RDH, BDSc, Nicole, RDH, Heather O, RDH, BDSc, Rachelle, RDH, BDSc, and Carrie, RDH will make you feel comfortable while providing outstanding individualized care.

Teeth cleaning can be fun and educational!

Let us help you “SMILE FOR THE

HEALTH OF IT”

Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine

| AlmostFreeMagazine.com

3

FAVOURITE

eats

breakfast / brunch

New twist on old classics • Holiday Party Location Can Accommodate Large Groups with Special Menus

531 Yates St. Victoria BC • hawkandhen.com 778.265.4295

At Frankie’s Modern Diner we are all about friends, family & fresh fare.

Open for Dinner, Lunch, & let us not forget breakfast: the MOST important meal of the day!

38 - 910 GOVERNMENT ST. VICTORIA BC frankiesmoderndiner.com

778•265•8575

All-day breakfast, swivel bar stool, everything homemade sorta place.

Victoria's modern diner.

Spoons Diner spoonsdiner.com

ALL DAY Breakfast & Lunch 7:30-3:30 Mon-Fri & 7:30-4 Sat-Sun

2305 BEACON AVE. W, SIDNEY BC

4

778.351.1555

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL/WINTER 2016

2915 DOUGLAS ST. (INSIDE SUPER 8)

250.382.5111

FAVOURITE

eats

comfort food

delivery and take out

Burgers, Authentic Quebecois Cuisine, Squeaky Cheese Poutine, Montreal Smoked Meat & more!

1215 ESQUIMALT RD. VICTORIA BC

4-5 CAN DINE FOR $45

250.220.8427

Buy 1 Meal and the 2nd one is 50% OFF

4 or 5 CAN DINE for $45* Includes 1 large butter chicken, 1 large vegetarian korma, 1 large steamed rice, 4 plain naan bread, 1 large chana masala, & 1 lb vegetable mixed pakora

(Exp. Feb. 28, 2017)

*Exp. Feb. 28, 2017

2646 QUADRA ST. VICTORIA BC

250.381.3363

24 BURNSIDE RD WEST, VICTORIA BC

778.430.5858

Several items under $10. Gluten-free and vegetarian options.

Eat Healthy, Eat Fresh!

$5 OFF your purchase of $25 or more.

(Exp. Feb. 28, 2017) Check out our menu at www.willowsgalley.com

2559 ESTEVAN AVE. VICTORIA BC

250.598.2711

COOK ST. VILLAGE, 1109 MCKENZIE ST.

Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine

250.382.1501

| AlmostFreeMagazine.com

5

FAVOURITE

eats

special occasion

Available for Staff Holiday Parties

Waterfront Dining serving modern-comfort inspired West Coast Cuisine

Semi-private Party Rooms 2 Buffets Daily Largest Selection of Beer from Around the World

$5 Off when Spending $25 or More*

Take Out & Delivery Office & Special Occasion Catering Available

1765 COWICHAN BAY RD. COWICHAN BAY

1245 Wharf St, Victoria, BC • 250.381.8181 newasianvillage.com

250.597.4353 (Of Equal or Lesser Value. Any lunch or Dinner Entree. Limit 1 redemption per month. Dine in only, Excludes Specials. Expires Feb. 28, 2017)

cafes / bakeries Warming lattes, comforting macchas, & scrumptious home baked goods.

Listed by Victoria Buzz in their 'top 12 locations to visit' for a freshly made sandwich.

TownshipCoffeeCo

4343 TYNDALL RD. VICTORIA BC

778.265.3253

In the heart of Gordon Head/Mt. Doug

6

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL/WINTER 2016

Drop by our famous sandwich bar and build your own!

LOCATIONS 1933 Oak Bay Ave. 5550 West Saanich Rd. 129-5325 Cordova Bay Rd. 751 Vanalman Ave. 611 Brookside Rd. Open 7 days a week 7am -7pm

AdvertoriAl

1550’s Pub Pairings with Driftwood Brew Lamb Shank Moroccan Braised d Pita ~with Risotto & Grille

FAVOURITE

FAVOURITE

eats FAVOURITE eats

d Brewery’s Paired with Driftwoo ier Crooked Coast Altb

eats F

An infusion of North African sp ices and aromat create this tant ics fuse to alizing fall-off-t he-bone lamb for four hours in dish. Braised a spiced vegeta ble laden broth burnt orange co of beautiful lour—and acco mpanied by th classic risotto an e perfect d grilled pita— the choice beer came to none ot pairing her than the ve ry popular Ger Crooked Coast man-style Altbier from Drif twood Brewery. hint of sweetnes The subtle s in the sauce (a secret ingredie Chef Neil Meija nt by 1550’s ) complements the earthy tone spices connectin s of the g the earthy no tes of Driftwoo Most notably, th d’s Altbier. e agreement in this pairing off cleanse betwee ers a palate n each bite. Cr ooked Coast is the original Altinspired by style beer of D usseldorf; “Alt” “old” and the st is German for yle a vestige of the days before was discovered lager yeast , when ales wer e what German produced. A m Brewers arriage of the ar omas of both G hops and caram erman noble el Munich malt, this quintessen beer is defined tial session by its delicate malt-hop balanc Moroccan Braised Lamb Shank e.

with Risotto & Grilled Pita nce offers of hearty substa ew st in lo sir ef s of This classic be thyme and hint he-ordinary with er, and pp pe d an lt, a twist out-of-t se of garlic, sa ba sic as ire. A cl sh its rk ant Yo vanilla to a tender flaky gi in up l oice al ch ed d pp an then wra the dish texture follows in r. e rte nc Po rie ne pe to ex lovely ery’s Blacks Driftwood Brew e of th s, ng ur iri ho pa w er be for a fe ackstone Porter Braised in the Bl mirrors the crisp ur vo fla ld ss yet bo rter. The vanilla beef’s tenderne e ch sip of th po ea in d un fo lp astute gu each porter sip meanders with ef be e th m fro notes d coffee inside. s of chocolate an ne to its uliflower, er ov sc to di firm broccoli, ca e th , on as se e g mashed Just right for th e the comfortin id gs on al y le ed palate. The and carrot m m the belly and ar w ly re su ill w support the potatoes ample body to s ha r rk rte Po ne Blacksto rived from the da ate and coffee de r, ol rte oc Po ch n io of s ss ur flavo quaffable se ygl in ris rp su A he sation w n specialty malts. to good conver on ni pa m co ct ne Porter is and the perfe indows. Blacksto w e th at g in sh the rain is la lder months. ally during the co available season

Paired with Driftwood Brewery’s

Coast Altbier Porter BraiseCrooked d Sirloin Yorkshire ~Sirloin Beef Stew w rappedspices infusion of North African and in a Gi anaromatics t Yorkshire seAn rv create withthis Crea my Mashe fuse toed tantalizing fall-off-the-bone dish. d Potatoes &lamb Vebroth g Braised for four hours in a spiced vegetable laden ofPa beautiful burnt orange colour—and accompanied by ired with Drift wood Brewery’s the perfect classic risotto and grilled pita—the choice Blac kstone Po rte beer pairing came to rnone other than the very popular

German-style Crooked Coast Altbier from Driftwood Brewery. The subtle hint of sweetness in the sauce (a secret ingredient by 1550’s Chef Neil Meija) complements the earthy tones of the spices connecting the earthy notes of Driftwood’s Altbier. Most notably, the agreement in this pairing offers a palate cleanse between each bite.

Crooked Coast is inspired by the original Alt-style beer of Dusseldorf; “Alt” is German for “old” and the style a vestige of the days before lager yeast was discovered, when ales were what German Brewers produced. A marriage of the aromas of both German noble hops and caramel Munich malt, this quintessential session beer is defined by its delicate malt-hop balance

Driftwood Brewery 1550’s Pub Style Restaurant In a world filled with mass-produced stuff, being 1550’s Pub Style Restaurant welcomes patrons of all ages. connected with the things we consume brings As we are a primary food establishment and not solely a joy. Distinct and local, at Driftwood Brewery, 1550’susPub Style Restaurant pub, children and minors are always welcome at all times we aspire to create a unique profile in every of the day. Please call ahead and we would be happy to 1550’s Pub beerStyle we make.

And, from the moment weall sold Restaurant welcomes patrons of ages. set up a table and accommodate any of your needs. We As we are ourafirst keg, food we’veestablishment upheld a commitment to a primary and not solely andcorners minors are always welcome allstyle. times are wheelchair accessible and have booster seats, high- pub, children never cut on quality, characterator of the day. Please call ahead and we would be happy chairs, and of course, colouring sheets for children. to set up a table and accommodate any of your needs. driftwoodbeer.com We are wheelchair accessible have booster seats, 1550srestaurant.com | (250) 472-0047 Retail Inquiries (250) and 590-3555 highchairs, and of course, colouring sheets for children.

1550 Cedar Hill Cross Rd, VictoriaVancouver BC 102-450 Victoria BC Island’s FREE coupon and affordable livingHillside magazine Ave, | AlmostFreeMagazine.com 7 1550srestaurant.com

Holiday Pairings

by Sommelier Megan Thompson

Cloudline

Lopez de Haro

Pinot Noir

Rioja

Harmoniously bringing the tradition and experience of French viticulture to the

are in the ABC club…”Anything But

“new world” soil of Oregon, the Drouhin

Chardonnay,” so if Chardonnay doesn’t

family carefully fashioned this Cloudline

agree with your palate but you still crave

2014 Pinot Noir to be balanced and lifted,

that weighty and rich white wine to go

fruity and earthy and a perfect pairing for

along with your turkey feast this season,

your holiday dinner this season. Bright

try this 100% Viura from Lopez de Haro.

red fruits of strawberry, cranberry and

A Spanish white aged for two months in

red cherry lure you in while undertones

French oak makes for a warm and round

of baking spice and expressions of damp

mouthfeel with notes of ripe fruits, banana

mushrooms keep your palate intrigued and

and dates. You work hard to make your

wanting more.

holiday dinner from scratch so it only

It is medium to light bodied so will not take up unnecessary real estate where the turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce

deserves a wine just as meticulously crafted.

This lively and balanced white comes

will certainly be occupying and merely

from hand-harvested grapes which have

compliments the savoury spices and fruity

been watched and analyzed carefully

preserves that will be served. Even though

throughout the entire harvest and are

it is a perfect match for your festive meal,

carried back to the bodega in small

a sneaky glass for the cook before is easily

tractors as to not harm the grapes. A full

enjoyed on its own and highly encouraged.

and generous wine with a price tag to

For only $35 this Pinot is your holiday’s

make your holiday budget smile. At only

saving grace. Happy Holidays and happy

$19.99 it is the best deal around.

sipping.

8

There are many people around that

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL/WINTER 2016

Hello Beautiful...

Ten Fifteen Beauty is a locally owned boutique style beauty bar located in Fairfield.

They specialize in a wide range of services such as eyelash extensions, special occasion glamour, nail enhancements, and brow sculpting. From their cruelty free products, to their environmentally safe waste disposal program, the team at Ten Fifteen Beauty believes that that beauty and self expression should not come at the cost of others or our environment.

The next time you are searching for that encouraging and inclusive environment to feel your best, let’s get to know each other!

We would love to meet you!

@tenfifteenbeauty Vancouver |Island’s FREE265-3397 coupon and affordable living magazine | AlmostFreeMagazine.com 5-1827 Fairfield Rd, Victoria (778) | www.tenfifteenbeauty.com

9

letter FROM THE EDITOR

our team Holiday Greetings!

EDITOR & PUBLISHER

Elissa Bergman elissa.vaf@gmail.com

and then the new year, so With the holiday season upon us, ds, celebrations, new goals many people have family and frien affording it all at top of mind. for next year, and then of course for the magazine as well!

This theme couldn't ring more true azine and all of our tips for ‎ Please enjoy this issue of the mag ey matters, and experiencing dining, health and wellness, mon g yet affordable way. Many the community in the most enrichin eased online activity with readers will have noticed our incr les, and more. Throughout videos, photojournalism, blog artic campaign of videos and December watch out for our online l businesses in "The Twelve photojournalism as we visit 45 loca n after a short break for Days of Affordable Christmas"! The Christmas into the new year with our family and friends, you'll see us back in action online, and our format of the print magazine will become quarterly moving forward. The next issue will hit streets before Spring.

250.419.2579 LAYOUT & DESIGN

Tania Castillo-Pelayo Myrna Proulx MARKETING

Louise Hodgson-Jones louise.vaf@gmail.com 250.812.2518 PRINT PHOTOGRAPHER

Rachel Knoop, Razzle B Photography ONLINE PHOTOGRAPHER & VIDEOGRAPHER

26 Gammie D. Bruce CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Louise Hodgson-Jones Jenny Hainsworth Jen Paterson Saira Waters Victoria Johnson Deena Kinarthy Megan Thompson

Warmest regards for the season,

advertise with us

Elissa Bergman, Editor

For advertising opportunities, online or in print please contact Elissa or Louise with the contact information above. © 2016 www.almostfreemagazine.com

FALL/WINTER 2016 | ISSUE 27 Vancouver Island Almost Free Magazine Winner of the 2014 Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Crystal Award for Business Excellence for a NEW Product or Service.

www.almostfreemagazine.com

10

@AlmostFreeMagazine

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL/WINTER 2016

@VicAlmostFree

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

ISSUE THE FALL/WINTER

EXPLO RE

the island

Each community section invites you to explore the wonders of Vancouver

features 4

FAVOURITE EATS

7

1550'S PUB PAIRINGS WITH DRIFTWOOD BREW

8

HOLIDAY PAIRINGS with Sommelier Megan Thompson

12

COZY COMFORT RECIPES

16

HEALTH & WELLNESS Embracing our Truth

18

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS

20

FITNESS TIPS Trail Tripping

22 COMMUNITY CULTURE

The Lotus of Milner 24

MONEY CENTS Navigating Gift Giving

26

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Island with tips, write ups, and coupons!

GREATER VICTORIA MAPS SEE PAGES 28-31

ON THE COVER:

RED BARN MARKET With five locations in Greater Victoria, Red Barn Market will open its sixth in Esquimalt this January 2017 and the seventh in James Bay in January 2018.

A pillar in the community for local meats, their in-house smoked products, and fresh and whenever possible Island sourced produce, the communities of the new locations welcome Red Barn with wide open arms. The enthusiasm not a surprise, the ownership and management team truly understand the impact they make beyond sourcing local and offering an alternative grocery shop. They support local initiatives, sports, and non-profits in the areas they operate, while taking pride in offering employment to locals in the area. Their most recent new location, Oak Bay which opened earlier in 2016 employs many students and seniors looking for part-time work.

The next time you’re in search of a local turkey, party trays of delicious smoked cheese and meats, and groceries, think Red Barn Market.

Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine

| AlmostFreeMagazine.com

11

F L AVOURS

COZ Y CO M FO R T

recipes Kale & Spinach Dip 1/4 cup Tuscan Herb Olive Oil, divided 2 cup fresh spinach, thinly sliced 2 cup fresh kale, thinly sliced 1/4 cup white onion, finely diced 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1/2 cup red bell pepper, roughly chopped 1 cup artichoke hearts, finely chopped 1/2 tsp Fleur de Sel 1/2 tsp cracked Black Pepper 1/4 tsp grated Nutmeg 2 tbsp flour 1/2 package cream cheese, softened and cubed 1 cup whipping cream 1/2 cup milk 1/2 cup Artichoke Pesto 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded Step 1 - In a large, deep non-stick skillet over medium heat, add 2 tbsp olive oil, garlic and chopped spinach and kale. Sprinkle with fleur de sel, pepper and nutmeg, then toss and saute greens and garlic for 7-8 minutes, until spinach and kale have completely wilted down. Remove from heat and drain spinach in a mesh sieve, pressing down gently to drain away liquid from greens. Allow to cool.

12

Mac and Cheese 1 lb dried small pasta (Tortiglioni, Elbow, Penne – your favorite!)

5-6 slices thick slices of pancetta or thick cut bacon, chopped 1/4 cup flour 1/4 plus 2 tbsp Tuscan Herb Olive Oil 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1 tsp Cognac Mustard 1/4 tsp Nutmeg 1/2 tsp Black Pepper, divided 3/4 tsp Amola Garlic and Rosemary Salt, divided 3 cups milk 1/2 cup chicken stock 1 1/2 cup aged white cheddar cheese, divided 1 cup mozzarella, grated 1/4 cup gorgonzola, crumbled 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled 5-6 sprigs of fresh thyme, divided 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs Step 1 - Preheat oven to 375*F and oil a cast iron skillet with 1 tbsp Tuscan Herb Olive Oil, then set aside. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then cook pasta according to package directions. Cook until just al dente – still having some bite, but not gummy. Drain and set aside. Chop 1/2 cup of white cheddar cheese into 1/2” cubes, then grate remaining cheddar cheese.

Step 2 - Preheat oven to 350*F. Wipe out non-stick skillet and add remaining olive oil and flour, whisking together until smooth over medium heat. Stir in whipping cream, whisking until smooth, then stir in parmesan cheese.

Stir until cheese melts into a creamy, thick sauce. Remove from heat and then stir in 1 cup mozzarella cheese and cream cheese.

Step 2 - In a deep non-stick pan, heat 1/4 cup Tuscan Herb Olive Oil over medium heat then add garlic. Saute garlic for 2-3 minutes, then whisk in flour, stirring till smooth and creamy.

Add nutmeg, fleur de sel, pepper and mustard, then whisk in milk and chicken stock, stirring sauce until smooth and evenly blended. Keep warm on low.

Step 3 - Stir in drained greens, red peppers and artichokes into sauce mixture, checking for seasonings. Pour into a large baking dish and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.

Bake dish for 30 minutes, until bubbly and top has lightly browned.

Step 3 - In a non-stick pan, cook bacon or pancetta over medium heat until crisp, then remove to paper towels to drain. Stir into cheese sauce, then pour warm sauce into a large bowl and begin stirring in grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL/WINTER 2016

and smooth. Stir in cooked pasta, leaves of thyme from 4 sprigs of thyme, goat cheese, and gorgonzola, mixing until well combined. Pour mac n cheese into cast iron skillet, spread evenly.

Step 4 - In a small bowl, stir together last tbsp of Tuscan Herb olive oil, panko, fleur de sel, pepper and thyme leaves from remaining sprig of thyme. Heat a small skillet over medium heat and pour in panko mixture into the pan. Toast in skillet for 5-6 minutes, until panko is golden brown and toasted - remove from heat.

Step 5 - Pour panko mixture onto mac n cheese, spreading evenly across the top.

Bake mac n cheese for 15-18 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and bread crumbs are golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy!

Movie Night Popcorn

Add your favourite Olive the Senses infused Olive Oil to your standard popcorn. Just heat oil in a saucepan and pour over. Try our butter, dill, or chipotle as suggested by customers.

Find the Infused Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar products used in the recipes at Olive the Senses

FLAVO URS

WISHING YOU A WINTER OF WHOLESOME MEALS PREPARED & SHARED WITH THOSE YOU LOVE.

XO -THE ROOT CELLAR FAMILY

LOCAL CHRISTMAS TREE S LOCAL FREE RANGE TURKEYS LIVE MUSIC & OCCASIONAL ELF SIGHTINGS ALL THE TRIMMINGS & FIXINGS

WE WORK WITH OVER 250 LOCAL & BC FARMERS, MAKERS & SHAKERS TO BRING YOU THE ISLAND’S BEST INGREDIENTS.

DELICIOUS!

BRING WELLNESS & ELEGANCE INTO YOUR EVERYDAY!

Find our Coupon on the Downtown Victoria Map Page in the back of this issue.

250.882.4210 www.olivethesenses.com

IN THE HUDSON, 1701 DOUGLAS ST VISIT OUR ONLINE STORE

Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine

| AlmostFreeMagazine.com

13

Spotlight on WHIPPLETREE JUNCTION 4705 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan

Celebrating Cowichan Valley Artisans & Producers Rarity comes in all sorts of forms. For an artist or producer, their craft becomes a constant pursuit of uniqueness, betterment of skill, and a way to make a special offering to those who their work speaks to most. This alone creates the reason behind what often takes hours upon hours, weeks, and even seasons and years, of handy work. This goes for artists, farmers, and producers alike.

People from all over the island, and tourists, have come to appreciate the local artisanal approach that Whippletree Junction business owners take with what they carry in store. You’ll find everything from Cowichan made gifts and handmade fudge at Next to Nature Trading Co, to an array of handcrafted and vintage items of clothing, home décor, and crafts at Nest Collective.

Nest Collective has quickly become the fresh champion of Whippletree Junction’s often forgotten quirky past.

Embodying the original spirit of loving the old and supporting local, Nest continues to grow as it supports more

local artisans each and every month.

This November/December more than 30 artists of Nest Collective are back with another not-to-miss evening at Whippletree Junction. Join us as we unveil 40+ artisan designed trees along with thousands of one-of-a-kind holiday items and festive decor. From traditional and vintage to Avant Garde and whimsical. Drop by to meet many local and talented artists. Music and Food will be local and exceptional as always.

Cam Stiles Trio returns this year along with Scoops Natural Foods. There will be free-to-enter Cash Door Prizes and an Art Raffle If you’re heading down for the evening grab some food items from your pantry to add to the food bank bins.

As always, the more you give, the more chances you have to win some amazing artisan gifts for you or someone you love this holiday season. Tree viewing and opportunities to win will be ongoing throughout December. Follow the flock and join the fun!

When down to enjoy the festivities at Nest Collective, be sure to check out all of the local Cowichan and BC–made souvenirs, clothing, gifts, and the fudge at Next to Nature Trading Co. They suggest some fantastic gift ideas to help your loved ones, and you, have a more cozy and comfortable winter. Mohair Socks, fleece lined fair trade booties, locally made soap and salt lamps are also ways of making their nest or yours cozier over

the dark wet west coast months!

You will find them in the small cabin directly to the left of the big cabin, Pioneer House. In business for over 23 years, they proudly carry items made

by BC artisans. The dream catchers are from a tribe in Mission and are 100% handmade, and cards and pottery from Cowichan. There are also fair-trade items, which include Kyber sweaters made of New Zealand wool, lined with fleece, and some have reflective fiber. These popular sweaters are made fair-trade in Nepal, a great way to help the Nepalese earthquake survivors.

Happy Holidays from Nest Collective, and Next to Nature Trading Co!

Creations from Over 50 Local Artisans Showing in Store & So Many Art Supplies for Your Creative Needs!

Come in for our wide selection of Homemade Fudge

Puzzles, Mohair Socks, Sheepskin Slippers, Fair Trade Sweaters, Cards, Pottery, Salt Lamps, and More!

4705 Transcanada Hwy Whipple Tree Junction 1-800-641-4677 (toll free)

beaverhousefudge.com

14

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL/WINTER 2016

BOSCH KITCHEN CENTRE Whippletree Junction, Cowichan Bay BC (778) 422-3310 @scoopsnaturalfoods

Unit O, 4705 TransCanada Hwy, Duncan BC WHIPPLE TREE JUNCTION, 250-746-5588 LocalTreasures I localtreasuresbc.ca

Happy Holidays from Our Table to Yours!

Proud to be a complete grocery stop for all of your favourite items this season and year round!

250-477-6513 • 3829 Cadboro Bay Rd.

Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine

| AlmostFreeMagazine.com

15

H E ALTH &

wellness

EMBRACING

our truth

BY VICTORIA JOHNSON Inspirational Speaker, Writer, Life Coach

In the darkness at 3 am when the silence is deafening, who are we? We are our thoughts. We doubt ourselves and negative self-talk takes over, the voices in our head chattering about everything we have done wrong from that time in grade three when we felt humiliation, to what we think will happen 20 years from now.

We all have these voices, learning to hush the chatter and replace it with loving selfacceptance is and effort well worth taking.

Who would we be if we knew we had no limitations? We each have within us boundless potentiality. Let's look at some ways to tap into the flow that is our true and authentic self, the person we naturally know to be.

Negative self talk must be at a minimum. We all have it and we all think no one else has it! It’s that constant criticism that loops in continuous play in our minds. We have heard it so many times we have adopted it as truth. We all know the one, and now that we do it

16

is time to change the message. When we run the messages that have held us back in the past, we feel low energy, like we are not enough. We believe we have a persona to maintain so that other people think we are who we present ourselves to be to the world - not who we really are if they knew our deepest, darkest thoughts.

In truth, we are all the same. We all want love and acceptance, we all want to leave a positive legacy when we leave this world, and we all want to enjoy the journey while we are here.

When we really love ourselves, everything in our life falls into place.

Self-love inspires us to not harm ourselves, with numbing techniques or overindulgence. Numbing shows It shows up in many ways, food, alcohol, resentment, or too much time spent in negative environments and dysfunctional relationships. When we are numbing, the self talk gets louder, and self-love diminishes. When we recognize this

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL/WINTER 2016

pattern we can lift ourselves up by surrounding ourselves with things and people that make us feel alive and connected. We begin to rise out of the low frequency and want more and more of what instinctually feels good to us. For some of us it is nature, others animals, children, fresh food, inspirational reading, music or loving relationships. When we find what feels good for us and spend time there, we will only attract more of this into our lives. The higher the frequency, the quieter the voices trying to limit our potentiality become.

To really love ourselves we must embrace self-acceptance and self-approval.

Forgiveness is the key. When we forgive ourselves, and the people around us, we can release all past negativity and be free.

I know from personal experience that it feels safer to embrace the idea of resisting forgiveness than it feels to think about forgiving. I can promise you this; when you are brave enough to forgive the past,

H E A LTH &

and the person whom you feel has wronged you, you will begin to feel gratitude for the experience and a freedom that is unfathomable.

In short - yes, that happened, it is part of my life experience and helped me to learn more about myself, and I am strong, open and feel safe embracing life. Every thought we think is creating our future. If we choose to live in thoughts of hate, victimization, or rejection we will draw more of that into our lives. If we choose to live in love, trust, self-acceptance and self-approval, we will draw more of those feelings and relationships into our lives. It is all part of defining who we really are, and who we really are is always enough. When we believe this about ourselves and others, our subconscious minds manifest it easily and effortlessly. Forgiveness is a decision that has nothing to do with anyone else, it is our decision to make. The healing will come from within us, and we can reach towards it with just a thought.

Now that we have made the decision to filter the voices in our head, we can talk about about what to do when the old messages show up. We can be spiritual and enlightened, and freely travelling on our path to our boundless potentiality - when out of nowhere, the chatter starts up again. When this happens it is the most important time to be kind to ourselves.

Whether it is once a month or ten times a day, notice the chatter. Acknowledge that it is there and thank it for showing up. It is there to teach us to be mindful and to recognise what has triggered us. Too often we judge ourselves, but it is important to resist this reaction, and instead replace the thought with a loving thought that lifts us up and empowers us.

The next time you are laying in bed at 3 am and the voice of self -doubt shows up, instead reach for another thought. I am enough. I am capable. I am loving and worth loving. I trust life. Everything always works out for me. I am Divinely guided. I am safe. All is well.

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

Heal Your Life Workshops and Life Coaching.

victoriaholmes.ca

105-2250 Oak Bay Ave. Victoria, BC V8R 1G5 250-590-0833 www.muckymutt.com

wellness

Cozying Into This Season’s Skincare With Miiko Skin Co. As seasons change, so does our skin. Stress from school, work, and busy schedules can catch up on us and show up in the form of skin sensitivities, dryness, irritations, and breakouts.

The multiple layers of our skin each serve a specific job. The top layer, the stratum corneum—a layer of dead skin—keeps moisture in and irritants out. The structure of this layer looks like a brick and mortar wall, strong and acting to keep the deeper layers of tissue hydrated and happy. But if it becomes STRESSED, the tight brick and mortar structure will loosen and become vulnerable to moisture loss and create areas for bacteria, allergens, and toxins to break into the deeper skin tissues.

The unique chemistry of this top layer of skin [the stratum corneum] makes it lipid-loving. Of significance here with our bodies being comprised mostly of water, this chemistry helps the body retain its moisture. This lipid-loving wall also acts as a barrier to harmful allergens, bacteria, and more.

We recommend trying oil-based moisturizers because of this lipid-loving chemistry at our outermost layer of skin. Our goal at Miiko Skin Co is to strengthen the lipid-loving stratum corneum. We choose simple recipes to focus on ingredient quality over quantity. Additionally we source our ingredients from suppliers in BC, and mostly choose edible artisan oils.

This is because organic food regulations are much higher than cosmetics, and we believe your skin has the same rights as your digestive system.

Miiko Skin Co Pro Fall/Winter Tip: Try Oil Cleansing Massage one of our three face oils onto your dry, clean face in circular motions for a minute or so. Apply a warm (not hot) cloth and allow the heat to steam the medicinal properties of the oils deep into the skin's tissue. Repeat and gently rinse off the excess oil. Finish this treatment with the PH balancing Saving Face Toner and notice the difference in one treatment.

Your satisfaction is guaranteed. If you are not satisfied with the results we will work with you to find a skincare routine that meets your needs best.

Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine

| AlmostFreeMagazine.com

17

SEASONAL FEATURE

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS

WITCH CIDER

BLUE SUEDE

RED ROCKER

by Spinnakers Spirit Merchants James Bay

by The Loft

by The Loft

1 oz blueberry vodka

1 oz raspberry sour puss

.5 blue bolster

.5 triple sec

1oz Sheringham Vodka

Topped with Soda

.5 grenadine

1/2 oz Bols Ginger

and Sprite

Topped with soda and

1/2 oz lime juice

sprite

Dash of Angostura Bitters 2 oz Sea Cider Witch's Broom Shake first four ingredients and double strain into old fashioned glass and then top with cider. Garnish with a lime twist and pinch of nutmeg.

435 Simcoe St #3, Victoria (250) 590-3515 spinnakers.com/ spirit-merchants

18

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL/WINTER 2016

Visit the The Loft Pub or Coachman Eatery and bring the lyrics from Cheers “Where Everybody Knows Your Name” a little closer to home.

We feature a large selection of micro-brewed and traditional beers on tap and an enticing Pub menu with great daily specials. The friendly staff are here to serve you the best that Victoria has to offer and an hour here can easily become an enjoyable afternoon or evening out.

229 Gorge Rd E, Victoria (250) 383-8212 theloftpubvictoria.com

Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine

| AlmostFreeMagazine.com

19

F IT NESS

tips

TRAIL tripping

By Louise Hodgson-Jones

With fall now truly setting in and winter just days away the thought of hibernating comes to mind, particularly with the days getting shorter. Having just come back from a walk on Mount Doug with my trusted four-legged partner, this is often the best time to experience the fresh, damp air where leaves form a perfect carpet and often the only sound I can hear is a happy panting dog beside me.

So as the seasons turn once more, I think of the many trails we can explore on foot – either as a brisk walk, hike or a run. We can choose to run by lakes, the ocean or through residential areas where rural trails are in abundance so let’s start with Mt Doug. It is the largest park in Saanich and has a myriad of trails at its base. All of the trails have excellent markers and there are maps at some intersections, so getting around is fairly easy even if you are direction-

20

ally challenged. If you hike to the top you have a 360° view of Victoria. For runners keeping to the lower trails can still offer a challenge with many undulations and tree roots. It provides a good workout and your dog will love you for it.

The 10k trail that circumnavigates Elk and Beaver Lake is a gem in Victoria. On a warm day it provides shade and on a rainy day: shelter. It is ideal for running or walking as there are many places for your canine friend to cool off. Just beware of the algae warning signs. It has been particularly bad this past summer and your pet could get sick if exposed to it. The trail is marked every kilometre so you can explore by distance or minutes.

Watch for others enjoying the trail, in particular horses. Dogs can be off leash as long as they are under control. And keep an eye out for the National rowing team who train on Elk Lake year-round.

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL/WINTER 2016

Another beautiful place to exercise is Thetis Lake. Rated moderate to challenging by the CRD, this 834 hectacre park has an abundance of trails that intersect to you can make your journey as short or long as you like.

Arbutus trees are a feature of this lake trail as is natural wildlife on the water. Like Elk and Beaver Lake there are areas for your four-legged friend to enjoy a cooling swim. The all-year round doggie beach is a particular favourite allowing your best friend to socialize with like-minded canines.

If you like to run or walk early then you will see triathletes training as the main beach is a popular spot for swimming.

Victoria has two great urban/rural trails that intersect - Lochside Trail and the Galloping Goose Trail. Lochside Trail is a 29 km trail from Swartz Bay to Victoria and even though there are paved and road sections, the Royal Oak Drive to Sayward Road and beyond to Island View Road

F I T NESS

tips

has some off road and is surprisingly quiet. It is a favourite for cyclists so if you are running with your dog then it is advisable to leash up. Ocean views are a feature of this trail.

Lochside meets the Galloping Goose trail at the Switch Bridge. It is 60 km of sheer delight for recreational athletes with many cyclists also enjoying the Goose. The pathway is now paved all the way to Colwood. However, beyond Colwood it is still mainly trail and stunning to explore – particularly around Roche Cove and Matheson Lake and all the way to the Sooke Potholes. This part of the Goose is surprisingly quiet and largely undiscovered so ideal for a quiet, solitary run or walk. It is marked every kilometre so you can choose to join the trail at a convenient spot and venture forth for as long or short as you like.

OAK BAY BICYCLES

WESTSHORE

Massive Selection

of Kid’s Bikes & Accessories Rolling under th tree thise year!

Other areas worth exploring are Horth Hill Regional Park near Sidney, Durrance Lake in Mount Work Regional Park, Francis King Regional Park in the Highlands, Goldstream Provincial Park and John Dean Provincial Park on the Saanich Peninsula.

Whatever area you choose to explore, ensure you dress appropriately and carry ID and a cell phone if you are on your own.

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

• Kids Bike “Buy Back” Program • Kid’s Road Bikes • Kid’s Clothing & Accessories

WESTSHORE VICTORIA

250-590-6960 Westshore Town Centre

104-800 Kelly Road Langford BC, V9B 5T6 westshore@oakbaybikes.com Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine

| AlmostFreeMagazine.com

21

CO MMUNITY

culture

The Lotus of Milner

BY JENNY HAINSWORTH AULD

In the year that I turned ten, I had no friend but Cheryl, and I was her prophet.

Cheryl, who was ten and a half, had straight golden hair and a confident voice like a bell. She was worldly and knew things, because she had an older sister, Lori, who was sixteen. Lori’s boyfriend, who was older than sixteen, sometimes stayed over at the big white house that never seemed to have parents in it.

When Lori’s boyfriend was around, Cheryl and I would hide in her room and listen to the couple fight downstairs.

The crescendos of the man’s voice scared me, but Cheryl just looked watchful. Her thin body seemed braced for something. Like a runner waiting for the starting pistol.

Behind Cheryl’s house, always wandering an expanse of grass and mud that seemed endless, was a white horse named Shelley Dawn. When I think of her, even now, she is pale pink like a seashell, and she stands among tall weeds and floating cottonwood, backlit by morning sun. I used to drape myself over the cold metal gate and sing her name until she noticed me. Shelley Dawn. Shelley Dawn. The fog from my breath hung her name in the air.

On weekday mornings, Cheryl would stride into our classroom and fling her bag into the cloakroom, declaring her presence. As if she could go unnoticed! She was Apollo, she was Blake’s Glad Day, the balm of my loneliness. She would shoot threatening looks at the boys, just in case. They would shrink against the walls as she passed by, partly clowning, partly out of real fear. I would feel my shoulders relax.

One October day in music class, Cheryl broke a ukulele – my ukulele -- over a boy’s head. He had been bothering me since the beginning of the school year. “Flat.” He’d drone in my ear, like clockwork, every class. “Flat. Your chest is flat.

Flat. Flaaaat.”

But not today. “Flaaaaa—OW!” A blur of blonde hair and whap! My avenging angel.

Mrs. Friesen tried to contact Cheryl’s parents to complain about the incident, without success. My parents were just glad I had a loyal friend, and they got me another uke. I didn’t even hear a discussion about the money, which surprised me, since there never seemed to be enough for anything except bare necessities. After thirty-five years, the little uke that replaced my broken one still sounds good -- better than other instruments I have tried as far away as Hawai’i, better than ukuleles made from koa and mango wood, hanging in specialty shops in Holualoa.

Cheryl and I spent weekends roaming our world.

Crossing ditches, up to our knees in mud, passing through echoing metal tunnels, negotiating barbed wire fences.

(Was this one electric? Only one way to find out!) Exploring barns. Boosting each other up onto the bare backs of strange horses, with various results. Visiting the gentle cows, the

22

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL/WINTER 2016

curious pigs, rabbits in their outdoor hutches. We were chased by bulls and dogs and billy goats, and sometimes by people.

Some Saturdays, we would sneak into the Langley Auction, where livestock was bought and sold. Cheryl and I would buy cups of instant chicken noodle soup at the snack bar, and a pomegranate at the fruit stand. The chicken soup was for eating – the trick was to somehow consume it before it spilled and scalded you to death – but the pomegranate was for sport.

We would take our soup and pomegranate to the topmost bench in the main auction building, where the seating narrowed to only two spots at the very top of the dizzying steep bleachers.

We tore the fruit into bloody-looking pieces, extracted seeds, and loaded the seeds into our cheeks. The object of The Pomegranate Game was to spit as many seeds onto the brims of the cowboy hats below as possible before being found out by the wearers of the hats. When the men turned around in irritation, or rage, we would thunder down the hundred steps to the exit and flee away through paddocks, fences and lumpy fields, swift and agile as two nymphs.

It all came to an end, one icy day in December. Four days after John Lennon was killed and five days before my tenth birthday.

Cheryl and I were walking to my house after school, and we spotted a foreign object in my front yard. It was a sign that read “For Sale.” We went inside to find my mother. (My dad had been shut away in his study for days, because of John Lennon.) Mom was hanging laundry in the kitchen. I asked how our house could be for sale while we were living in it. Was this not our house? She smiled sadly and explained.

I had thought that my parents were inscrutable gods; now I learned that above them was a higher rank of gods, the landlords, who had the power to turn families out of houses. It was fated that we leave not only the pea-green house beside the old Milner church; we were to leave Langley altogether. My mother thanked Cheryl warmly for being a good friend. But we were moving away next month.

Cheryl and I went back outside. It was already getting dark.

We stood and looked at the For Sale sign. Cheryl silently bent over and scooped mud into her white hands. I did the same. She flung her mud at the sign. I did it too. We flung mud at the sign until the words were illegible. We kept scooping mud, bending and flinging like small catapults. We flung and flung until we could no longer see the sign, or our hands, or each other’s faces.

Whatever that was. We were on our way to find out.

Jenny Hainsworth Auld is a BC born painter and writer living in Victoria. Find her art and stories on her Facebook page "Jenny Hainsworth Auld Fine Art."

CO M M U NI T Y

culture

• Residential & Commercial Moving • The Best Service for The Best Price!

• Call Us About Our Mid-Month Special!

250-418-1747

- No Travelling Time Before or After Local Moves -

veryone who works for Done Right Moving is courteous, conscientious, and respectful to ALL customers, building owners, managers, and neighbours.

We take pride in our reputation of having professional, reliable, and experienced movers who are happy to work hard and do a good job.

Seniors receive a special rate and service.

We are fully insured and WorkSafe approved.

Our guarantee is honesty: we are only human and if mistakes are made, such as damage, we take full responsibility to make it right.

Our goal is to provide a stress-free moving experience for the good people of Victoria, and get the job Done Right.

Tyler Jackson, Owner/Operator smoothmoves250@gmail.com

$20 OFF

Find us on

Your Move with Coupon

2014 TORCH AWARD FINALISTS

SEE PAGE 45 FOR OUR OFFER

Service

www.donerightmoving.ca 47 VANCOUVER AFFORDABLE LIFESTYLES | AlmostFreeMagazine.com VancouverISLAND’S Island’s FREE coupon and affordableMAGAZINE living magazine | AlmostFreeMagazine.com

23

MO NEY

cents

NAVIGATING

Gift Giving

BY JEN PATERSON & SAIRA WATERS Co-Founders of Dollar Divas

Before you jump all over me and say “it’s only fall, can we PLEASE leave the Christmas talk until it’s actually Christmas”, just hear me out. Gift giving is not something that only comes up once a year, it’s something that pops up all the time with birthdays, mother’s day, father’s day, weddings, and baby showers just to name a few. Gift giving can be met with a lot of stress, resentment and hurt feelings if it’s not handled well, so here are a few tips on tip-toeing through the giftgiving mine-field.

Include incidental gift giving in your budget

It’s not a surprise, sometimes we need or want to give gifts and it’s nice to not take a financial hit every time an invite arrives in your inbox.

The best way to estimate this is to go though your calendar and write down

24

all the occasions that you give gifts through throughout the whole year and estimate how much you want to spend on each occasion. Don’t forget birthday cards (and the associated cash), friends’ birthday parties or hostess gifts.

Leave Christmas out of this calculation, I’ll explain why later. Get an annual total and divide it by 12 to get an average monthly amount. I usually like to add a little extra for one off events like weddings and baby showers.

Save for Christmas all year long

Regardless of whether you are an Excited Elf or a Grumpy Grinch, Christmas is coming. It’s comes every year and it’s not surprise that a lot of people spend way more than they can afford. Even if you keep your budget under control it’s still a big weight on your December finances. A way to avoid this is to figure out how much

Christmas will cost you including food, transportation and gifts, divide that total by 12 and save a little bit every month so you have a nice little nest egg waiting for you when it’s time to start shopping.

Ways to cut back

Sometimes, even with careful planning there just isn’t enough money for you to be as generous as you would like to be. Not to worry, there are things you can do to ease your economic burden: 1.

Gift exchanges: Do you have a big family or a large group of friends? Chances are many people in the group would be more than happy to receive fewer gifts in exchange for only needing to purchase a few. Put everyone’s name in a hat and pull names to see who buys for whom.

M O NEY

2. Give the gift of time: Do you have a friend or family member that recently had a baby? Most new moms get tons of adorable clothes and blankets for their little ones but what new mom wouldn’t love the gift of a home-cooked meal, a clean load of laundry or a freshly vacuumed carpet? I even know a few that would give anything to have someone watch their bundle of joy so they could shower and take an uninterrupted nap.

3. Are you looking around your home and thinking, I don’t want anything this year?

My house already has too much stuff in it! Ask those that would normally give gifts if they want to do something special together instead of exchanging gifts.

4. Gift wrapping can become just as pricey as gift giving. Getting creative with the gift wrapping can be a great way to cut back.

A big roll of brown paper and some pretty ribbon makes a beautiful package for a fraction of the cost. A fun way to wrap baby gifts is in receiving blankets.

5.

Beware the DIY trap. While it can be fun to give gifts that are homemade its can be very expensive to purchase the items needed to make the gift. Especially if you are doing something different for each recipient. If you are determined to DIY it, try to buy things in bulk to avoid this pitfall.

Avoid the reciprocation trap

We’ve all been there, you are finished with your Christmas shopping and are just sitting down to enjoy a well earned cup of tea when there is a knock at the door. Your friendly neighbour brought by a small token of the holiday season. On the outside you are smiling and saying a gracious thank you and on the inside you are a big ball of stress because you hadn’t planned on buying gifts for your neighbours. Having a couple generic gifts on hand can ease that stress and make these unexpected visits a pleasant surprise and not a cause for panic.

Jen Paterson, Financial Expert & Saira Waters, REALTOR® with Royal LePage, teamed up to create Dollar Divas, the Meetup group for women who want to be financially independent! To learn more about Dollar Divas, check out www.dollardivas.org or find us on Facebook.

cents

Lifetime Friendships Lifetime Friendships Lifetime Supports Lifetime Supports Lifetime Networks.

Lifetime Networks. lifetimenetworks.org lifetimenetworks.org

You’re invited to our

Congratulations Country Grocer Congratulations Country Grocer 15th Annual for winning this year's for winning this year's Gala Dinner & Auction National Philanthropy Award National Philanthropy Award April 2017 at The Union Club for28th, Corporate Responsibility! for Corporate Responsibility!

Reception: 6:00pm | Dinner: 7:00pm Tickets: $80/person Appetizers, Dinner, Wine, Entertainment, and Auction Ticket Information at info@Lnv.ca or call 250-477-4112 Lifetime Friendships Lifetime Supports

Lifetime Networks.

For Sponsorship Opportunities call or email Carlene at lifetimenetworks.org 250-477-4112 | carlene@Lnv.ca.

We hope you will learn about Congratulations Country Grocer and consider uspeople in your forus winning this year's We create opportunities for We create opportunities for people with disabilities and families. giving thistheir season!

National Philanthropy Award with disabilities and their families.

We provide friendship and support We providecontact friendship and support To Donate Carlene Thompson at for Corporate services so that allResponsibility! people can live rich services so that all people can live rich 250-477-4112 or carlene@Lnv.ca. and rewarding lives in our community and rewarding lives in our community – safely and with friends that care.

– safely and with friends that care.

"It was an honour to be nominated by "ItLifetime was an honour to and be nominated Networks the Island by Prostate Lifetime Networks and the Island Prostate Centre and then to be recognized for giving Centre then to be recognized giving back and to our community.

It was afor great back to our It was a great feeling forcommunity. us being part of the evening feeling us being of the evening wherefor there were part so many people doing where people doing such there greatwere workso tomany help those such great work to help those who are in need." who are in need." ~Peter Cavin, Director, ~Peter Cavin, Director, Country Grocer Country Grocer We Info create opportunities for people with disabilities and at lifetimenetworks.org or call 250.477.4112 their We provide friendshipand support services Info families. at lifetimenetworks.org or call 250.477.4112 so that all people can live rich and rewarding lives in our community – safely and with friends that care.

We create opportunities for people Info at lifetimenetworks.org or call 250.477.4112 with disabilities and their families.

We provide friendship and support Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable | AlmostFreeMagazine.com services soliving thatmagazine all people can live rich and rewarding lives in our community

25

ARTS &

enter tainment

WORKINGCLASSTHEATRE:

A CLASS ACT

A veritable Class Act is how one could describe the fellow thespians who make up Workingclasstheatre, conducted at the helm by artistic director and Capilano University grad Tristan Bacon and company.

Bacon is also known these days as our favourite neighborhood coffee connoisseur, earning this title as he not only works as general manager at the hip, urban coffee shop 2% Jazz but he also facilitated the local coffeehouse as a pop-up venue at the Victoria Fringe Festival this past summer. 2% Jazz was home to Workingclasstheatre’s popular episodic sitcom series Café Soap Operas! where, naturally, Bacon plays a lovable Barista.

Showing a total of six different episodes each night of the festival, Café Soap Operas! (also directed by Bacon) was a hilarious, quirky comedy written collectively by members of the Workingclasstheatre troupe, and stage managed by Rachel Paxton. De-facto writerin-residence Keeley Wilson also pitched in, and Joanne James directed one of the episodes.

Café Soap Operas! is to the millennials what Friends was to Generation Y. Just as in the hit 90’s TV sitcom, the characters of Café Soap Operas regularly meet in a central coffee shop to talk about their problems with relationships, dating, being unemployed, and life in general. The Barista is undeniably the anchor of the show, and quips about

26

all the people and life events he observes from behind the counter. Why do people gather in coffee shops? He has observed first dates, lengthy breakups, and then there are the regulars who show up at the same time every day. Josh (played by Markus Spodzieja) forcefully captures the essence of a vegan meathead (oxymoron?) who is obsessed with staying fit and healthy. Nicholas Yee plays the likeable character, Hamilton, an unemployed tech savvy chap who creates the first ever Victoria-based dating app. Emma Hughes plays a convincing high-powered PR agent, an aggressive yuppie business type hell bent on making money.

Sarah (played by Sophie Underwood) is an outraged self-declared feminist looking for any cause to get behind (for a fee, of course).

The show’s snappy, witty dialogue and highly amusing physical comedy kept audiences engaged and laughing. Time flew by, amazingly I never batted an eye— my attention was entirely focused on the performance.

While being a hit at the Fringe, the fun doesn’t stop there for this theatre company. I sat down with Tristan as he divulged details about Workingclasstheatre’s upcoming season. This is why, in my opinion, they are a class act: First off, it’s not about the money. It is about their passion for telling a story that brings them together. Bacon says, “[At first], we

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL/WINTER 2016

wanted to be a working-class. Now it feels a lot more like a philosophy. Nobody in the company is making a living on this, we all work day jobs in one way or another and then come together to tell stories.”

Secondly, they believe in community. Tristan says that telling great, timeless stories brings people together.

Third, they have a giving and charitable spirit. They have a wonderful holiday show planned in their upcoming season called Radio: Scrooge, which is a modern retelling of A Christmas Carol, presented in the form of a live radio play. In the spirit of the holidays, they are putting together a toy and book drive to donate to underprivileged families at Christmas. Sponsors are also coming together to donate tickets to single parent families, so they can get out and enjoy seasonal entertainment without worrying about the cost.

For Tristan, A Christmas Carol has a special place in his heart. When he first moved to Victoria, the Belfry's version of the play was the first professional piece of theatre he attended in the city - and he says he fell in love with their adaptation. Only a few years later he recalls, “I had an opportunity with a grant from the BC Arts Council to assistant direct the remount of the show at the Belfrysuch a beautiful experience, to work on the

A R TS &

enter tainment

show that had captured my heart when I moved to what would become my new home. Now I get a chance to put a workingclass spin on the show. It's really exciting. We're really getting into the spirit with the toy and book drive and ticket subsidy, and the response from local businesses has been fantastic.”

For more information on Workingclasstheatre’s upcoming season visit www.workingclasstheatre.com or like them on Facebook.

EVENTS CALENDAR 1) One Man, Two Govnors A comedy by Richard Bean, directed by Roger Carr is Jan 20 - Feb 4, 2017 2) Taking Leave A dramatic comedy by Nagle Jackson, directed by Angela Henry is MaR 3 - 18, 2017 Deena Kinarthy, Arts & Entertainment Columnist

CHMS_AR_Monday_Magazine_Ad_X1a.pdf

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

1

2016-09-20

1:10 PM

APPARENTLY WE HAVE AUGMENTED REALITY. I’M TOLD IT’S EXCELLENT. We are pleased to introduce Augmented Reality guided tours at the Castle. Come take one for a spin!

CMY

K

C A N A DA’ S C A S T L E

|

T H E C A S T L E .C A

Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine

|

1 0 5 0 J OA N C R E S C E N T

| AlmostFreeMagazine.com

27

F O R T ST & D OW NTOW N A R E A

shop FAB U LO U S

shop FABULOUS

Victoria Homes

,

.

FORT ST & DOWNTOWN AREA IN VICTORIA

1

Dutch Bakery and Diner

$5 OFF when you spend

$20.00 anywhere in the Diner, Bakery or Chocolate Counter.

#

Expires Jan. 31/17

2

BRING WELLNESS & ELEGANCE INTO YOUR EVERYDAY!

Specializing in European Pastries, Cakes, Cookies & Chocolates – Full service diner offering full breakfast and lunch menus.

Dutch Bakery and Diner 718 Fort Street, Victoria BC 250-385-1012 Open Monday - Saturday 7:30AM-5:30PM

10% OFF

ANY PURCHASE

OFFER VALID ONLY WITH COUPON. EXPIRES JAN 31, 2017

250.882.4210 www.olivethesenses.com

IN THE HUDSON, 1701 DOUGLAS ST VISIT OUR ONLINE STORE

Creatively Combined Full Flavoured Food Chicken & Veg Cashew Cream Alfredo over Edamame Mung Bean Noodles

Caesar Salad with Egg Free Dressing & Brown Rice Bread Croutons

Low Glucose Index Naturally Sweetened Gluten Free Brownie with Chocolate Cashew Cream Icing

Signature Infused Balsamic Style Teriyaki Chicken & Black Bean Noodles

• Specializing in Weekly Meal Services with a focus on Nutrition (heart healthy, low glucose index, slow burning carb diet, and more) • Private Dinner Parties • Special Event Catering

250-419-2579 | plumpplate.com | facebook.com/plumpplate

28

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL/WINTER 2016

F OR T ST & DOWN TOWN AREA

shop FABU LO US

“The holiday season is a perfect time to reflect on our blessings and seek out ways to make life e St Ellic

ve ide A Hills

id St Dav

Bay St

Discovery St Government St

Store St

Herald St 3

Vancouver St

Pembroke St

Quadra St

ard St Blansh

Queens Ave Princess Ave

from around the globe, this street takes its food seriously… so come hungry! Eat, drink and be entertained as you wander from shop to shop exploring the locals street!

Fisgard St Cormorant St

1

View S

Vancou ver St

Gove rnme nt St

Fort St

Quadra St

Blansh ard St

Yates S t

Cook S t

Pando ra Ave Dougla s St

Johnso n St

Fabulous Fort St in Victoria From the ocean right on up to the castle …Fort Street is truly Victoria's main street. Peppered with unique and one of a kind shops, boutiques, eateries & restaurants, this street is a treat for Bay Ba y St t all the senses. Not only isSthis street home to some of the city's oldest and most established businesses, it is quickly

Bay St Cook S t

Government St

St John

x

Pandora Ave

t APPROVAL REQUESTED 2

Any correction to the ad must be requested by the customer48 within HOURS following the reception of this approval request in order to meet losing the c dates,which vary from one issue to anothe r.

Court

Fort St

t St APPROVAL REQUESTED For Any correction to the ad must be requested by the customer48 within HOURS following the reception of this approval request in order to meet losing the c dates,which vary from one issue to anothe r.

neyCHANGES St ARE MADETOTHISPLEASE PLEASE NOTE: YOURADWILLRUN “AS IS” UNLESS PROOF , SO PLEASE THERUN “AS IS” UNLESS CHANGES NOTE: YOURCHECK ADWILL ARE MADETO THIS PROOF, SO PLEASE CHECKTHE FOLLOWING CLOSE LY...

OFFER(S) EXPI RY DATE ALL WRITTEN COPY NAME/ADDRESS/PHONE FOLLOWING CLOSEL Y...

OFFER(S) EXPIR Y DATE ALL WRITTEN COPY NAME/ADDRESS/PHONE CoTo Thank You For Using Direct Response Media Group Advertising Promote Your Business. urt neThank y St You For Using Direct Response Media Group Advertising To Promote Your Business .

Local: 416-321-9900 Toll Free: 1-855-321-9903 Fax: 416-321-0098 Web: www.drmg .com Toll Free: 1-855-321-9903 Fax: 416-321-0098 Web: www.drmg.com Local : 416-321-9900

DOCKET: 99582

REP CODE: CWI

TRIM: 8.25” X 5.25”

SAFE: 8” X 5”

DATE: JUL 28/15 MAILING: VIC8 DOCKET: 99582 REP CODE: CWI PRODUCTION AR TIST: W.T. BLEED: 8.5” X 5.5” TRIM: 8.25” XREV: 5.25” SAFE: 8” X 5” 1

DATE: JUL 28/15

MAILING: VIC8 PRODUCTION AR TIST: W.T. REV: 1

PROUDLY SPONSORED IN PART BY: BLEED: 8.5” X 5.5”

3

Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine

| AlmostFreeMagazine.com

29

Jason Leslie A Smart Choice

QUALITY USED BOOKS

Your trusted advisor for residential marketing and professional representation of buyers and sellers

shop DOWNTOW N

Jason Leslie

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

jasonleslie.com office: 250.478.9600 Toll Free: 1.877.553.9601 Email: jleslie@remax.net

Expires Sept 30, 2016 Fiction/Self Help/Health & Diet/Cook Books/Literture Children’s/Science Fiction/War/Western/Antiquest & Collectables, and more

LANGFORD

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

#

Ditch the Workout! Join the Party!

You and a friend TWO 5-class passes one price

QUALITY USED BOOKS

Fiction/Self Help/Health & Diet/Cook Books/Literture Children’s/Science Fiction/War/Western/Antiquest & Collectables, and more

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

106 - 721 Station Avenue, Victoria, BC 250-478-0914 www.dragonflybooks.ca

#

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

Expires Sept 30, 2016

jasonleslie.com office: 250.478.9600 Toll Free: 1.877.553.9601 Email: jleslie@remax.net

1

SPECIAL PACKAGES Revitalize Package $99

Deluxe Eminence Pedicure and a mini facial. 2 Hours.

Renew Package $155

HOLIDAY SPECIAL Manicure & Pedicure Combo 1 - Just $59 (plus tax) with paraffin wax and a hydrating eminence chocolate foot masque.

Includes full facial, body treatment of your choice, pedicure with paraffin and a spa lunch. 3-5 hours.

Renew Package $195

Leave feeling like a new person. Let us pamper you with a full facial, 1 hr. massage SPECIAL PACKAGES with a warm paraffin packs, deluxe pedicure, mini$99 manicure Revitalize Package and spaEminence lunch. 4 hours.

Deluxe Pedicure and a mini facial. 2 Hours.

Renew Package $155

full facial, body ...providing a means for increased Includes self respect, self worth, and self esteem treatment of your choice, pedicure with paraffi n and in the lives of each person who enters here by enhancing their physical a spa lunch. 3-5 hours.

HOLIDAY SPECIAL appearance and mental well being...

Renew Package $195

feeling like a new Manicure & Pedicure Combo Leave person. Let us pamper you 101-2843 Peatt Road, Victoria BC with | 250.474.1401 | rejuvenationswellness.com a full facial, 1 hr. massage - Just $59 (plus tax) with a warm paraffin packs,

with paraffin wax and a hydrating eminence chocolate foot masque.

deluxe pedicure, mini manicure and spa lunch. 4 hours.

...providing a means for increased self respect, self worth, and self esteem in the lives of each person who enters here by enhancing their physical appearance and mental well being...

101-2843 Peatt Road, Victoria BC | 250.474.1401 | rejuvenationswellness.com 30

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL/WINTER 2016

#

Your trusted advisor for residential marketing and professional representation of buyers and sellers

Jason Leslie

106 - 721 Station Avenue, Victoria, BC 250-478-0914 www.dragonflybooks.ca

!

2

Jason Leslie A Smart Choice

#

shop L ANG FORD

!

2

shop L A NGF OR D

Ave

Perc y Pl

Clau de R d

Gol dstr eam

Pea tt R d

Stra thm ore Rd

Sca fe R d

“Christmas waves a magic wand over this world and behold, everything is softer and

Hoc kley Ave

3

14 2

nue n Ave Statio

Mea ford Ave nue Phip ps A ven ue

Jac klin Rd

Dan broo k Av e

1

Pea tt R d

Oro no Ave

1A

Bry nM aur Rd

Jac klin Rd

Pea tt R d

Jac obs on R d

Mas sie D r

Vete rans M e m oria l Par kwa y

Downtown Langford in Victoria Quickly becoming a central hub in the Western Communities, downtown Langford is quickly expanding where downtown Victoria businesses find their second location in the bustle of these streets. If you haven’t poked around Goldstream Avenue and area, you’re overdue. The ample free parking and densely situated shops make it an easy trip to discover ALL types of shopping. Go ahead and explore, eat, and be entertained!

Langford Parkway

Golds tream Ave

Veterans Memoria l Parkway

Kno tty Pine Rd

1A

GROOMING

• FOOD

• FOOD • SUPPLIES GROOMING • FOOD • SUPPLIES GROOMING

Lan gfor d Pa rkw ay

PROUDLY SPONSORED IN PART BY: 3

DECEMBER SALE

• FOOD • SUPPLIES

2

Call today and book your pet a ‘Yule-Tidy’ appointment in our grooming shop

250-590-4460 250-590-5803 250-590-5803

| Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine | AlmostFreeMagazine.com VANCOUVER ISLAND’S AFFORDABLE LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AlmostFreeMagazine.com

31 37

36

TH

ANNUAL

R Series UN

VANCOUVER ISLAND RACE SERIES

F Series UN JAN – APR 2017 8 RACE SERIES

REGISTER FOR 1 RACE OR MORE!

FOR INFO AND MAPS

MAR 19

COMOX VALLEY RV HALF MARATHON

6

MAR 5

APR 9

SYNERGY HEALTH MGMT. BAZAN BAY 5K

CEDAR 12K

APR 2

7

PORT ALBERNI PAPER CHASE 10K

JAN 8

8

HARRIERS PIONEER SAANICHTON 8K

JAN 22

COBBLE HILL 10K

2

FEB 5

5 1

SOOKE RIVER 10K

3 PRESENTING SPONSOR

GOLD SERIES SPONSORS

30th

32

AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL/WINTER 2016

MEDIA PARTNERS

4 CHARITY PARTNER

FEB 19

HATLEY CASTLE COLWOOD 8K

SERIES SPONSORS

Photos credit: Phil McOrmond, Jim Hockley, Chris Kelsall and Wayne Coulson

ISLANDSERIES.ORG