Bountiful Brunch
(Family Features) Set the stage (and the table) for an inviting brunch experience with recipes that cover all the bases from desserts to a mouthwatering main course.
Tide the appetite of your guests with Spiced Lamb Over Hummus served with toasted flatbread or tortilla chips. Just as this delectable dish is vanishing, pull Apple Pear Walnut Crisp out of the oven and pair with ice cream for the finishing touch.
Visit Culinary.net to find more ways to broaden your brunch menu.
Spiced Lamb Over Hummus
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6
INGREDIENTS
Lamb:
4 lamb loin chops
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Hummus:
1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas
3 cloves garlic, chopped
1/4 cup tahini
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
3 tablespoons olive oil
For serving:
1 Persian cucumber, small diced
1 small tomato, diced
2 tablespoons roasted pine nuts (or 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds) parsley, chopped
lemon wedges
toasted flatbread or tortilla chips
DIRECTIONS
1. To make lamb: Remove lamb from bone, dice meat into small cubes and transfer to medium bowl.
Pear Walnut Crisp
Total time: 1 hour, 5 minutes
Servings: 4
INGREDIENTS
Walnut Crisp Topping:
1 1/2 cups walnuts, divided
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup quick-cooking oats
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup butter, chilled and sliced into 1-tablespoon pieces
Apple Pear Filling:
3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch slices
2 D’Anjou pears, peeled and sliced into 1/4inch slices
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2. Add cumin powder and salt. Toss to coat. Marinate while preparing hummus.
3. To make hummus: Drain chickpeas, reserving 1 tablespoon liquid. Rinse chickpeas under running water then drain.
4. In bowl of food processor, pulse chickpeas, chickpea liquid and garlic until chickpeas and garlic are chopped.
5. Add tahini, lemon juice, salt, cumin, paprika and olive oil. Mix until smooth paste forms. Taste and adjust by adding more salt, lemon juice or olive oil, as desired.
6. Transfer hummus to large platter and spread it out.
7. In large skillet, heat extravirgin olive oil over high heat until hot. Add lamb and cook 30 seconds without moving.
8. Turn lamb over and cook 30-60 seconds, repeating until all sides are browned. Remove from pan and let rest 5 minutes.
9. To serve, place cucumbers and tomatoes in well of hummus then top with lamb, pine nuts and parsley.
10. Top with squeeze of lemon juice and serve with flatbread or tortilla chips.
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
ice cream (optional)
caramel sauce (optional)
DIRECTIONS
1. To make walnut crisp topping: In food processor, pulse 1 cup walnuts until finely ground.
2. In small bowl, combine ground walnuts, flour, brown sugar, oats and cinnamon. Cut butter into mixture until coarse crumb forms.
3. Coarsely chop remaining walnuts and stir into crumb mixture until incorporated. Set aside.
4. To make apple pear filling: Preheat oven to 350 F.
5. In bowl, toss apples, pears, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, salt and lemon juice.
6. Place fruit mixture in bottom of 10-inch
cast-iron pan or baking dish.
7. Sprinkle walnut crisp topping mixture over fruit.
8. Bake 45 minutes, or until fruit mixture is hot and bubbly and topping is golden brown.
9. Top with ice cream and caramel sauce, if desired.
Find more recipes to celebrate the season at walnuts.org/fall-favorites.
Publisher’s Note
Publisher
Victoria Ledden
OWNER/PUBLISHER/AD SALES Victoria Ledden | 705-429-0761 | vledden1@gmail.com
Collingwood Office: 330 First Street Collingwood and THE ARMSTRONG TEAM! Brenda - Cell: 705-828-4571 Candy - Cell: 705-817-1007
Wasaga Beach Office: 1249 Mosley St. Wasaga Beach
Showroom: 1470 Mosley St., Unit 5, Wasaga Beach 705-429-9382 info@georgiangraniteworks.ca georgiangraniteworks.ca @GeorgianGW
John and Nickel (his unlicensed assistant)
Kim Dadswell, DD
THINGS TO DO IN YOUR GARDEN IN November
Master Gardener
• While we have had some rain in October, I would suggest a little last-minute deep watering to trees and shrubs before the frost.
• Look for discounted bulbs on sale. Buy them and get them in the ground now. Your extra efforts will bloom in the spring.
• Remove annual plants from the garden and from pots or other containers. Dump plants and soil onto your compost pile. Clean pots thoroughly and store them.
• There is an annual argument among gardeners as to whether you should cut back all your perennials, grasses etc., in the fall, or leave them long for “winter interest”. Up here, most perennials are covered by 2+ feet of snow, so you can’t see them anyway. With no fall clean-up, spring clean-up can be daunting. It can be delayed by wet weather, a late spring or there can be instant summer. That’s why I am opting for a BIG FALL CLEAN-UP this year to get a jump on spring 2025. I’ll leave a few tall perennials with seeds for the birds, but suit yourself.
• Dig up and bring in dahlia tubers, tuberous begonias and gladiola corms when the leaves turn yellow. Remove the soil and wash the tubers. Remove little cormlets from glad corms for more plants next year. Cure the tubers and corms for 2-3 weeks in warm dry place. Place in trays and cover with dry compost, peat moss, sand or perlite. Store at about 5 C in a cold-cellar, or a slightly heated garage.
• Try potting up some spring bulbs like amaryllis and paperwhite narcissus and force them into bloom for Christmas and/or for late winter indoor colour. Different bulbs will require various lengths of cold storage in your refrigerator or cold cellar to flower, so read the product packaging carefully.
• Complete winterization procedures for plants and containers; drain hoses and clean all other garden equipment. To be a perfect gardener, sharpen your tools and put linseed oil on wood handles. Paint the handles of small hand tools RED, so you won’t lose them in the garden next spring.
• Protect young trees and shrubs from rodents by using wire collars or plastic protectors.
• Hill up your Hybrid Tea and Floribunda roses with 10+ inches of compost covering the stems, or use a metal or plastic “Rose Collar” and fill it with compost before the ground freezes.
• Create one or more Winter/Christmas urns using a variety of evergreen branches. Find branches with colourful berries and add red dogwood stems and dried hydrangea blossoms.
• Check mulch levels in gardens. Pull mulch back 3” to 6” from around shrub and tree trunks to discourage rodents. Add more compost or leaves to beds if you have them. It provides winter homes for pollinators and other insects.
• Order seed catalogues for next spring.
• I usually recommend that you stock up on Triple-19 fertilizer now, so it is ready to put on your flower beds in March, right after the snow has melted. In early March, call the Markdale Co-Op at 1-519-986-2031 to make sure they have it in stock, or buy some now to be sure you’ll have it in March.
Submitted by John
Hethrington
Things to do in your garden each month taken from the Ontario Master Gardener Calendar by John Hethrington, Past President, Master Gardeners of Ontario. For more information, OR TO OBTAIN YOUR OWN COPY of the 11” x 17” colourful calendar of the full year’s tips for a $2 contribution to Master Gardeners, call 519599-5846.
What’s Up? Georgian
What Happens in Vegas
(NC) It’s okay, you can talk about what happens in Vegas.
While Las Vegas’s nickname, “Sin City,” did lead the local tourism board to come up with the creative and catchy slogan, “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,” the Nevada destination is about much more than just gambling and other vices. Here are four types of activities you can safely discuss when you get back home.
STAR POWER
Since the days of the Rat Pack crooners in the 1960s and late-career Elvis held court in dazzling style, Las Vegas has drawn top-notch music acts. The Sphere, also known as the Eye, is an eye-catching concert hall that hosts massive acts such as U2 and The Eagles. Countless other musicians hold weeks- or months-long residencies at various other venues in the city, including Canada’s own Shania Twain. Other acts to see include marquee comedians, magicians, circus acts and more. FOODIE HEAVEN
Somewhat lesser-known is that Las Vegas is a Mecca for food lovers. While many of the large resorts still offer low-cost, decadent buffets to indulge in, the city has also attracted many world-famous chefs who’ve built Vegas-sized restaurants, including Guy Fieri, Giada de Laurentiis, Wolfgang Puck and Gordon Ramsay.
DAY TRIPS
Las Vegas is also well-situated for taking some memorable day trips out of town. The Hoover Dam, for example, is about a one-hour drive from the city. This massive concrete structure was built during the Great Depression, largely to generate electricity. But it’s a tourist attraction in itself and well-worth seeing, with daily guided tours available.
The Grand Canyon is another popular excursion from Vegas. Depending on which part you visit, it’s about a 2.5- to 5-hour drive by car or coach bus from the city. Or, tick another item off your bucket list and take a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of the canyon.
FREE TIME
If a ticket to a top-billing show isn’t in your budget, there are plenty of free sights and sounds to take in. Simply strolling along the famed Las Vegas Strip will mesmerize you with its neon and over-the-top architecture. But there are also numerous free outdoor concerts, waterworks displays, fireworks shows and more.
Find more information about things to do in Las Vegas and some of the many holiday packages available at aircanadavacations.com.
Veterans want Canadians to understand the price of freedom. They are passing the torch to the people of Canada, so the memory of their sacrifices will continue, and the values they fought for will live on in all of us.
First World War 1914 – 1918
The nations of Europe were at war soon after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary. More than 650,000 Canadians and Newfoundlanders served in this war and more than 66,000 of them gave their lives and more than 172,000 were wounded. Their great contributions and sacrifices earned Canada a separate signature on the Treaty of Versailles which formally ended the war.
HOW THE WAR STARTED
Rival alliances, clashing interests, and secret treaties divided pre-war Europe, and set the stage for a war that would quickly engulf most of the continent, and much of the world.
The immediate cause of the First World War was the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the heir to the Austrian throne, in Sarajevo on 28 June 1914. The assassin, Gavrilo Princip, was a member of a Serbian nationalist movement that aimed to unite Serbia and other Slav states, which were then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Almost everyone expected a short, victorious war – one that would be “over by Christmas.” They were wrong. The war would grind on for more than four years.
As many as ten million soldiers died in the fighting along with many millions of civilian casualties. Deadly new weapons of war such as high-explosive shells, tanks, powerful machine guns, and poison gas escalated the death toll.
CANADA GOES TO WAR
Germany invaded Belgium on 4 August 1914. Britain, which had long pledged to defend Belgium’s sovereignty, issued an ultimatum demanding the immediate withdrawal of German troops. When the ultimatum expired at midnight, without a German retreat, Britain and Germany were at war. So too were the nations of Britain’s empire, including Canada and the colony of Newfoundland.
Even though Canada had been its own country since 1867, its external affairs were still governed by the United Kingdom. This meant that once Britain declared war, Canada automatically followed.
PATRIOTIC ENTHUSIASM
In an unprecedented burst of patriotic enthusiasm, Canadians enlisted from across the country. Because prewar Canada had a very small military, citizen-soldiers would form most of the new Canadian Expeditionary Force.
Thousands showed up at their local recruiting stations eager to “do their bit,” many of them with strong emotional ties to Britain.
TRENCH WARFARE
After the initial German advances, the battle on the Western Front quickly turned into a stalemate of trench warfare. The front line zigzagged for nearly 1,000 kilometres, from the coast of Belgium to the border of Switzerland.
Life for soldiers in the trenches was miserable. They were often muddy and cold and had to live in the midst of pests like rats, lice and fleas. In this form of warfare, soldiers faced the enemy across a narrow strip of land between the opposing trenches. This was a harsh “No Man’s Land” of mud, barbed wire and shell craters, swept by machine gun fire, and menaced by artillery and snipers. This is what soldiers had to cross when they went “over the top” and launched an attack. The dead and injured who fell in No Man’s Land often could not be recovered.
CANADA’S ARMY
The Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) was the entire overseas force fielded by Canada during the First World War. Of the 650,000 Canadians who enlisted for military service, 424,000 went overseas as part of the CEF.
Canada’s first fighting division in Europe, comprised mainly of troops from the First Contingent who had sailed in autumn 1914, served as an individual division under British command.
In September 1915, the growing size and complexity of Canadian forces overseas led to the creation of the Canadian Corps, an operational and administrative grouping of most Canadian fighting units and their supporting services.
The Corps grew from an initial establishment of two divisions with approximately 35,000 troops to a powerful striking force of four divisions with 100,000 troops by early 1917.
A CANADIAN COMMANDER
At first, the CEF was commanded by British generals. Beginning in June 1917, the Canadians were led by Lieutenant-General Sir Arthur Currie, a Canadian militia officer who rose during the war from command of a brigade to command of the entire Corps.
Currie, who remained in command until 1919, is widely considered one of the war’s most capable generals.
THE CORPS’ EFFECTIVENESS
The Canadian Corps was a unique national formation that fought together for most of the war.
The soldiers of the four divisions and their supporting troops learned to work together and could pool resources to improve combat effectiveness. This cohesion and stability, jealously guarded by most senior Canadian military and political figures, bred a sense of identity and pride in national accomplishment.
LEGACY
Canada’s role in the war led to more autonomy and international recognition, but came at a great cost.
By the end of the First World War, Canada—at the time a country of fewer than 8 million citizens—would see 650,000 men and women serve; more than 66,000 Canadians and Newfoundlanders died, and another 170,000 were wounded.
Canada’s accomplishments earned it a newfound respect and a recognition—both at home and around the world—as an independent country. This earned Canada a separate signature on the Treaty of Versailles that formally ended the First World War.
Canadian Armed Forces around the world Veteran’s Week - November 5-11. Every November, we honour those who have served Canada in uniform.
A Canadian covered with mud returning from the front. Photo: Library and Archives Canada/PA-867
Canadians in a front line trench during the First World Wa, February 1918. Photo: Library and Archives Canada/ PA-2468and Archives Canada/PA-867
Victorious Canadian troops following the Battle of Vimy Ridge, April 1917. Photo: Library and Archives Canada / PA-001332
You and Your Furry BFF
BE AN ECO-FRIENDLY PET PARENT
(NC) There are many simple steps that you can take to reduce your carbon footprint – and that of your pet. That’s right – pets can also help to make a positive impact on the environment by reducing their carbon “pawprint.”
Here are four tips to start you on your journey to being an eco-friendly pet parent.
SKIP THE CAR RIDE AND TAKE A WALK:
Start off simple with an option that is good for Mother Earth, the health of you and your pup, and also your wallet. Choosing to leave the car at home and walk more often will offer benefits in spades. Not only are you helping to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions but you’re also supporting physical and mental wellness.
REPURPOSE HOUSEHOLD MATERIALS INTO PET TOYS:
There are an increasing number of fun and eco-friendly pet toys that are sure to keep pups engaged, but you can also create your own dog toys using upcycled materials from around the house. For example, cut up an old shirt into strips of fabric, then tie and braid the strips together to create a new tug toy.
CHOOSE RECYCLABLE PACKAGING:
You may not know that the pet food industry generates millions of pounds of plastic packaging each year. One way that pet parents can make a difference is to support companies that use sustainable packaging, like Canadian pet food manufacturer Petcurean, which has committed to transitioning its packaging to recyclable by 2025 with products like, Now Fresh Good Gravy, a complete and balanced bone broth-coated kibble recipe that dogs can enjoy dry or wet, when water is added.
INVEST IN ECO-FRIENDLY DISHES:
WELLNESS TIPS FOR YOUR FURRY BFF
(NC) Part of living a happy and healthy life requires investing in wellness and self-care. Like people, our precious pets also benefit from having more than just their basic needs met. From exercise to pampering, there are several simple things you and your pet can do together to improve overall wellness and quality of life. Check out some ideas below:
PRACTICE
SELF-CARE
TOGETHER:
Pamper yourself and your pup at the same time by planning an in-home spa day. A facial for you and a “pawdicure” for your dog is a fun way to unwind while also getting some essential grooming done. Don’t forget to put on a movie or some soothing music and throw on your comfiest clothes.
GET ACTIVE:
Exercise can be one of the most enjoyable ways to spend time with your pooch. Start the day off with a hike together or plan to incorporate some interactive playtime with games, such as fetch or hide-and-seek, into your daily routine. Physical activity is a great way to keep both you and your pet mentally stimulated while also decreasing stress and improving mood and sleep, among many other benefits.
EAT A HEALTHY AND BALANCED DIET
:
It might seem obvious, but diet is key to maintaining overall wellness. There are a variety of healthy snacks you can share with your pup like carrots, blueberries and other nutrient-dense fruits and veggies. For pets specifically, consider choosing a pet food that offers a complete and balanced diet such as Now Fresh Good Gravy, a nutrientdense kibble that is enriched with a hydrating bone broth coating and can be fed wet or dry depending on your pup’s preference.
Opting for ceramic or stainless-steel dishes over plastic is not only an eco-friendlier option, it’s also better for the health of your canine companion. Some plastic bowls can contain toxins like Bisphenol A (BPA) and can be harder to keep germ-free. Don’t forget to also pick-up a collapsible BPA-free dish to use when you’re on-the-go. Sustainable, convenient and easy to use. Win-win-win. Remember that every step you take on your journey to sustainability makes an impact. Set a goal for you and your fur family members and feel good knowing the difference that you are making together.
GO GREEN:
Taking care of ourselves also means taking care of our planet and making small changes that reduce our carbon pawprints. Being a sustainable pet parent doesn’t have to be complicated. Think simple: upcycling old clothing into new pet accessories or tug toys, choosing to walk or bike more and drive less, or purchasing pet food made with recyclable packaging, such as Now Fresh Good Gravy Salmon Recipe for Dogs.
Just remember, it’s never too late to start improving your health and wellness habits. By integrating some or all of these wellness tips into your daily routine, you can directly contribute to a happier and healthier life for you and your pet.
Building Holiday Cheer
CULTIVATING DAILY GRATITUDE WITH YOUR LITTLE ONE
I love Christmas: the cookie making, the parties with friends and family, the excitement of gift giving. Yet as a mom, I am also overwhelmed with the pressure to buy the latest toy and being surrounded by a culture of “I want”. As the holiday season approaches, now more than any other time of the year, practicing daily gratitude with my family is a must. This simple practice builds a sense of appreciation and will teach my kids a life long practice that is worth more than any latest trendy toy.
What is the Power of Gratitude?
Gratitude isn’t just a fleeting one time feeling; it’s a practice that has the power to transform and rewire the way your brain thinks. More specifically, gratitude is more than just saying “thank you” after receiving something. It’s a mindset, a way of looking at the world through a lens of appreciation for both the big and small moments in life.
Studies show that cultivating gratitude can improve mental health, foster positive relationships, and increase overall well-being. For children, learning to express and reflect on what they’re thankful for helps develop emotional intelligence, resilience, and empathy. For parents, it provides a beautiful opportunity to bond with their kids and model the values of appreciation and mindfulness.
How do you practice gratitude with kids?
It might seem overwhelming or even impossible to practice gratitude with kids. However there are some simple actions that you can take today with your family to start this practice. Here are some ideas:
1. Create a Gratitude Calendar: Find a shared home calendar where each day, a family member writes down something they are grateful for, similar to an advent calendar. By the end of the month, you will have several dozen examples of moments of appreciation and things that you and your family were grateful for.
2. Gratitude Around the Dinner Table: Make it a nightly tradition to go around the dinner table and have each family member share something you’re grateful for. This can be a simple, informal practice that helps everyone reflect on the good things in their day. It’s a great way to foster family conversations and encourage children to think about their day.
3. Volunteer as a Family: One of the best ways to teach gratitude is through acts of kindness. Volunteering can provide children with a real-world understanding of giving back to the community. Whether it’s serving meals at a shelter or donating toys to a local charity, these experiences help children see the joy in giving rather than receiving.
4. Start a Family Gratitude Journal: Writing down moments of gratitude can have a powerful effect on family dynamics. A family gratitude journal is a great way to practice mindfulness together, allowing each member to record what they’re thankful for. Over time, this journal becomes a beautiful keepsake, reflecting years of cherished memories and growth.
5. Focus on Experiences Over Things: Focusing on shared experiences during the holiday season is a good way to emphasize togetherness over material gifts. Plan family outings, holiday baking sessions, or cozy movie nights that emphasize togetherness rather than material gifts. These moments create lasting memories and teach children that connection and strong relationships can bring a lot of joy.
Gratitude as the Heart of the Holidays
As we enter the busiest season of the year, take a moment to think about how you want to start practicing daily gratitude with your family. The holidays are a wonderful time of the year, and by embracing gratitude, families can shift their focus from material gifts to the true meaning of the season: love, generosity, and togetherness.
Whether it’s through a gratitude journal, volunteering together, or simply sharing what you’re thankful for at the dinner table, these small acts can help create more meaningful and fulfilling experiences for your family. After all, the best gift we can give ourselves and our children is the ability to appreciate the richness of life’s simple moments.
Submitted by Alexa Barrera
Alexa Barrera is an author passionate about languages, creative art and emotional well-being. She has several publications on the topic of mindfulness and gratitude, including the children’s journal “Gratitude Journal: Mom and Me”
Alexa Barrera grew up in Mexico City and now resides in Canada with her husband and two daughters. Her books can be found on Amazon or on her website www.bilingualbabies.ca
Things to Know When You Travel Outside Canada
(NC) The fall is a great time for an international trip. It’s the off-season for many hotspots, so you’re likely to see good deals and fewer tourists compared to peak travel periods. If you’re planning a holiday soon, here are some tips to keep in mind:
RESEARCH YOUR DESTINATION. Take time to learn more about where you’re headed. You can use blogs, Reddit, official tourism websites, books and library visits to make sure you have all the key details, like the best times to visit the most popular attractions or hidden local gems. It’s also a good idea to research your destination’s tipping practices and public transit options.
CHECK ENTRY REQUIREMENTS. Countries can have unique restrictions that you may not have considered. For example, you will want to check each country’s requirements carefully before you travel with a pet. If you’re heading to Japan, you may need a doctor’s note to enter the country with your prescription medication. And, of course, don’t forget to verify visa and passport requirements.
BOOK EVERYTHING EARLY. You’d be surprised how quickly tourist attractions can book up, especially bucket-list places like the Louvre in Paris, Basilica de la Sagrada Familia in Barcelona and Machu Picchu in Peru. The last thing you want to do is travel all the way to Amsterdam to see the Anne Frank House, only to find all tickets are sold out; go online or talk to your travel agent to pre-book – you may even qualify for some early-bird pricing.
BE SMART ABOUT WHAT YOU BRING. A helpful guide is to pack half as much stuff as you think you’ll need and focus on smart packing. Things like a portable charger for your cellphone and mini first-aid kit can come in handy in an emergency. Consider bringing an e-reader instead of a bunch of books and magazines. When it comes to cash, you’ll get a better exchange rate at home – just call your local bank before going in to make sure they have the currency you need.
REVIEW YOUR CELL COVERAGE. Did you know that service providers need to notify you when you’re roaming internationally, and cannot charge more than $100 in roaming charges per billing cycle unless you agree? Many also offer out-of-country talk, text and data plans for a daily flat rate, so call ahead to find out your options.
You should carefully review your bill when you return. What can you do if you find any unexpected charges on your bill after returning from your trip? If you feel you’ve been overcharged, speak to your provider. If they don’t resolve the issue, you can file a complaint with the Commission for Complaints for Telecom-television Services, or CCTS. This independent Canadian organization offers free complaint-resolution services for issues like roaming, contract issues or incorrect charges on your phone, internet or TV accounts, and has the authority to make providers to fix the problem. Learn more at letstalksolutions.ca.
Create a Cozy and Sustainable Home This Winter
(NC) As winter approaches, transform your home into a warm, inviting space. Here are some tips:
STOP DRAFTS: Seal gaps around windows and doors to help to keep cold air out and save on energy bills.
ADD INDOOR PLANTS: They improve air quality and add freshness to your space. Snake plants, spider plants and peace lilies are particularly effective.
MAINTAIN HUMIDITY LEVELS: Using a humidifier to prevent dryness will help make your home warmer and more comfortable.
LAYER WITH SOFT FURNISHINGS: Use rugs, heavy curtains and flannel or fleece sheets to add warmth and texture.
EMBRACE DANISH HYGGE: Surround yourself with things that make you happy, like books, blankets and a warm cup of tea.
OPTIMIZE HEATING EFFICIENCY: Make sure your heating system is serviced and working efficiently. Consider installing a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature and reduce energy consumption when you’re not home.
USE DRAFT-STOPPERS: Place draft-stoppers at the base of doors to prevent cold air from entering through gaps. This small investment can make a big difference in keeping your home warm.
COOK AT HOME: Use your kitchen to cook warm meals and bake. The heat from the oven and stove will help warm up your home, and the smell of fresh food adds to the coziness.
ADD AREA RUGS: Lay down area rugs, especially in rooms with hard flooring, to add warmth underfoot. They also help insulate the floor and keep rooms cozy.
USE THERMAL CURTAINS: Install thermal or insulated curtains on your windows to help keep the cold out and retain the warmth inside. This can be especially effective during the night when temperatures drop.
Creating a cozy space is essential for enjoying the winter months. Learn more about keeping your home cozy and safe this winter at belairdirect.com.
The Benefits of Hemp
A Sustainable Solution for the Environment and Climate
Hemp, a versatile plant with a long history of use, is gaining recognition as a powerful tool in addressing environmental challenges and mitigating the effects of climate change.
Unlike its psychoactive cousin, cannabis, hemp contains negligible amounts of THC and is valued primarily for its industrial applications. From textiles to biofuels, hemp’s utility is vast, but its most profound impact lies in its environmental and climate benefits.
CARBON SEQUESTRATION
One of the most significant advantages of hemp is its ability to absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. Hemp grows rapidly, reaching maturity in just 3-4 months, and during this time, it absorbs more CO₂ per hectare than most trees. This makes it an excellent crop for carbon sequestration, helping to reduce the concentration of greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. Moreover, hemp continues to store the carbon even after being processed into products such as paper, textiles, or building materials, effectively locking the carbon away.
SOIL HEALTH AND PHYTOREMEDIATION
Hemp is also highly beneficial for soil health. Its deep roots help to prevent soil erosion by stabilizing the earth, and these roots also enhance soil structure by aerating the ground. Additionally, hemp is known for its phytoremediation properties—it can absorb toxins, heavy metals, and pollutants from the soil, cleaning contaminated lands without the need for harsh chemicals. This quality makes hemp a valuable crop for areas affected by industrial waste or polluted by chemical runoff.
WATER EFFICIENCY
Hemp is a water-efficient crop, requiring significantly less water than conventional crops like cotton. Cotton, for example, is a thirsty plant that places heavy demands on water resources, especially in regions
already struggling with water scarcity. Hemp, in contrast, can grow in a variety of climates and conditions with minimal irrigation. Its resilience to drought makes it a sustainable alternative, reducing the strain on freshwater systems.
BIODIVERSITY AND PESTICIDE REDUCTION
Hemp cultivation promotes biodiversity and reduces the need for harmful pesticides. The plant’s natural resistance to pests means that it requires fewer chemical inputs compared to other industrial crops, like cotton or corn. This not only protects the surrounding ecosystems but also reduces the runoff of toxic chemicals into waterways, safeguarding aquatic life and reducing pollution.
BIODEGRADABLE
PRODUCTS AND PLASTICS
Hemp can be used to create biodegradable plastics, a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics that are contributing to the global plastic pollution crisis. Hemp-based materials break down more easily in the environment and do not release harmful chemicals as they degrade, offering a greener solution to packaging and product manufacturing. In summary, hemp offers an eco-friendly, sustainable alternative to many industrial crops and materials, with the added benefits of improving soil health, reducing water usage, and combating climate change through carbon sequestration. Its potential to transform industries and contribute to a more sustainable future is immense.
Local Action Produces Global Impact
ENGAGE WITH WASAGA BEACH CLIMATE ACTION TEAM
WBCAT invites you to join our Coffee, Cake & Climate Volunteer Information Event, Nov 19th at the Stonebridge Art Gallery, from 6:30pm to 8:00pm. Check our website for more info. wasagabeachclimateaction.com info@wasagabeachclimateaction.com
Submitted by Gerard Dusastre
Start Your Day Right
(Family Features) Eating healthy is a priority for many but knowing where to start and with what foods may be a little trickier. One way to level up the nutritional value of your meals is to better understand whole grains and why they are important for a heart-healthy diet.
As a key feature of heart-healthy diets, whole grains like sorghum, oatmeal and brown rice are rich sources of dietary fiber, may improve blood cholesterol levels and provide nutrients that help the body form new cells, regulate the thyroid and maintain a healthy immune system.
When asked to identify whole grains and refined grains, most adults incorrectly believe multi-grain bread is a whole grain and only 17% believe sorghum is an example of a whole grain when it is, in fact, a nutritious whole-grain option.
Find more heart-healthy meal ideas at Heart.org/healthyforgood.
Pancakes with Blueberry Vanilla Sauce
Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association and Sorghum Checkoff
Servings: 4 (2 pancakes, 1/4 cup sauce and 2 tablespoons yogurt per serving)
INGREDIENTS
Sauce:
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1/3 cup water
1 cup blueberries
1 tablespoon sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Pancakes:
1/2 cup quick-cooking rolled oats
1/2 cup whole grain sorghum flour
1 1/2 tablespoons firmly packed light brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup fat-free milk
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 large egg
1 tablespoon canola or corn oil
Topping:
1/2 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt
DIRECTIONS
1. To make sauce: Put cornstarch in medium saucepan. Add water, stirring to dissolve. Stir in blueberries and sugar. Bring to boil over medium-high heat. Boil 1-2 minutes, or until sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla. Cover to keep warm. Set aside.
2. To make pancakes: In medium bowl, stir oats, sorghum flour, brown sugar, baking powder and cinnamon.
3. In small bowl, whisk milk, applesauce, egg and oil. Stir into flour mixture until batter is just moistened and no flour is visible without overmixing.
4. Heat nonstick griddle over medium heat. Test temperature by sprinkling drops of water on griddle. Griddle is ready when water evaporates quickly.
5. Pour 1/4 cup batter for each pancake on griddle. Cook 2-3 minutes, or until tiny bubbles appear on surface and bottoms are golden brown. Flip pancakes. Cook 1-2 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown on bottoms. The USDA recommends cooking egg dishes to 160 F.
6. Transfer pancakes to plates. Spoon sauce over pancakes. Top each serving with 2 tablespoons yogurt.
Serves 2
INGREDIENTS
2 Flour Tortillas
4 tablespoons Creamy Peanut Butter
2 tablespoons Strawberry Jam, Jelly, or Preserves
2 bananas, peeled
DIRECTIONS
1. Place tortillas on a paper towel and microwave for 10 seconds.
2. Spread 2 tablespoons peanut butter on each tortilla. Add 1 tablespoon jelly to each tortilla.
3. Place the banana near the edge of the tortilla and fold up the ends of the tortilla. Roll-up and enjoy!
culinary.net
PB&J Banana Burritos
Tips for Managing Chronic Pain
(NC) Chronic pain is one of the most common symptoms impacting daily life and quality of life for people with arthritis. An important part of arthritis pain control is self-management, including activities and supports you can use on your own to reduce joint pain. Here are five strategies to help you take an active role in arthritis pain relief.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND EXERCISE
Arthritis may cause you to avoid physical activity for several reasons, including the fear of making your arthritis worse because movement is painful or because you are fatigued. Although it may be difficult to stay active when living with joint pain, maintaining regular physical activity can be an important part of pain control and retraining the brain to experience pain less intensely.
EATING WELL
There is no miracle diet for arthritis, but food can play a significant role in arthritis pain control. What we eat can impact inflammation, energy levels, mood and weight, which are all factors in how we experience pain. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation and manage weight.
HEAT OR COLD THERAPY
Heat and cold therapies can be helpful for short-term pain relief. Cold therapy can be used to reduce pain, inflammation and swelling if your joints are hot and swollen. Heat therapy is helpful for relaxing muscles and improving circulation. Be sure to protect yourself by placing a cloth or towel between the heat/cold treatment and your skin.
MINDFULNESS MEDITATION AND OTHER MIND–BODY APPROACHES
The brain is a powerful tool that can help control our experience of pain. Science has shown that techniques such as mindfulness meditation, cognitive behavioural therapy, distraction and visualization may help reduce the intensity of the physical pain we experience.
ASSISTIVE DEVICES AND JOINT PROTECTION
Taking action to protect your joints and minimize joint strain can help reduce arthritis pain and make daily tasks easier. Assistive devices including tools and gadgets, mobility aids, medical equipment or other technologies can help you perform activities of daily living more easily, including cooking, walking or getting dressed.
Find more tips on pain management from Arthritis Society
Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Bars
Simple, sweet treats are always a win with the family when you need to change things up a bit. Enjoy some decadence with this dessert recipe including creamy cheesecake filling coupled with chocolate cookie dough for a truly rich delight.
Find more dessert ideas at Culinary.net
INGREDIENTS
2 rolls chocolate chip cookie dough, divided
2 packages cream cheese (8 ounces each), softened 1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. Prepare 9-by-13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
3. Press 1 1/4 cookie dough rolls into bottom of pan.
4. In large bowl, mix cream cheese until fluffy. Add sugar, mix well. Add eggs and vanilla extract; beat until combined. Pour cheesecake filling over cookie dough base.
5. Crumble remaining cookie dough over cream cheese filling.
6. Bake 35-40 minutes.
7. Cool completely before cutting. Store in refrigerator.
Carrot-Lentil Vegetable Stew
(Family Features) As the chill settles in, comforting, warming, seasonal favourites like stews and soups become top of mind. However, with busy work schedules, there’s often not enough time to prepare them during the week.
When Carrot-Lentil Stew is on the menu, time isn’t an issue. It’s ready in under an hour, plus it’s packed with healthy ingredients and robust flavour. Start with quick-cooking lentils, add nutrient-rich vegetables, vegetable broth and the secret ingredient: a jar of Aunt Nellie’s Glazed Sliced Carrots. The perfectly cooked carrot slices and their flavourful sauce add texture, flavour and vibrant colour to the stew, which needs only 10 minutes to cook.
Serve topped with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese for another splash of colour and an extra layer of flavour. This vegetarian stew can easily be adjusted to include chicken sausage for even more protein.
For additional cold-weather cooking ideas, visit AuntNellies.com
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
INGREDIENTS
1 cup dry lentils
3 cups fat-free, reduced-sodium vegetable broth, divided
1 cup water
3/4 cup chopped onion
3/4 cup sliced celery
3/4 cup chopped bell pepper
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added diced tomatoes
1 jar (15 1/2 ounces) Aunt Nellie’s Glazed Small Sliced Carrots
1 large clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)
DIRECTIONS
1. Rinse lentils and drain. Place in Dutch oven or other large saucepan. Add 2 cups broth and water. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes (lentils should be slightly undercooked).
2. Add onion, celery, bell pepper, remaining broth, tomatoes with liquid, carrots with liquid and garlic. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer 10-15 minutes, until liquid is reduced as desired and vegetables are just tender. Stir in parsley. Serve topped with Parmesan, if desired.
Note: If desired, 1/2 pound chicken sausage links, cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces, can be added to stew during last 5 minutes of cooking.
Preparing for Winter
ABUNDANCE
APPLE CIDER
BRAVE
CASSEROLE COLD
COMMUNITY
FIREPLACE
FREEDOM FRIENDSHIP
GRATITUDE
HEROES
HOME
LAUGHTER
NOVEMBER
PEACE
SEASONS SOUP SUPPORT TRAVEL UNIQUE
Del-Egg-Table Eats
(NC) Lasagna needs no introduction. The delicious, layered casserole of cheese, wide flat noodles, rich red sauce and meat or veggies is hearty comfort food at its best. But we could all use a change at times. Try this twist - a common addition in some regions of Italy: sliced, hard-boiled eggs. For additional nutritional benefit, use eggs that offer added nutrients, such as Burnbrae Farms’ new Naturegg Omega Plus Solar Free Range eggs; a great source of DHA omega-3 fatty acids and lutein.
Easy Sicilian-Inspired Lasagna
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 12
INGREDIENTS
Meat sauce:
1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
1 lb (500 g) lean ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 can (750 ml) marinara or tomato basil sauce
1 can (540 ml) diced tomatoes
Cheese filling:
1 package (475 g) ricotta cheese
2 cups (500 ml) grated mozzarella cheese
½ cup (125 ml) finely grated Romano or Parmesan cheese
Spanish Potato and Onion Omelet
(Family Features) A filling yet nutritious breakfast is a productive way to start any day, especially one loaded with flavour. Spanish Potato and Onion Omelets are simple to make and pack plenty of protein with diced ham and eggs paired with the complementary tastes of onion and potatoes.
Find more recipes at Culinary.net.
Recipe courtesy of the National Onion Association
INGREDIENTS
1 cup olive oil, divided
4 Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/8-inch slices (about 4 cups) salt, to taste pepper, to taste
2 medium onions, thinly sliced (2-2 1/2 cups)
6 eggs
4 ounces cured, cooked ham or prosciutto, diced
DIRECTIONS
1. In large saute pan, heat 3/4 cup olive oil. Cook half potatoes until tender and golden, turning often. Drain. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Repeat with remaining potatoes.
2. Add 4 tablespoons olive oil to pan. Cook onions until soft, about 15 minutes. Add potatoes to onions.
½ cup (125 ml) 10% cream (half and half)
2 eggs, lightly beaten
2 tbsp (30 ml) chopped fresh basil or parsley
For assembly:
16 lasagna noodles (approximately)
6 eggs, hard-boiled and sliced
DIRECTIONS
Sauce:
1. Heat oil in a dutch oven or large deep skillet set over medium heat.
2. Add beef, onion and garlic; cook, breaking up beef with a spoon until browned.
3. Stir in sauce and tomatoes; simmer for 10 to 15 minutes or until slightly thickened.
Filling:
1. Stir ricotta cheese with mozzarella, Romano cheese, cream, eggs and basil. Set aside.
Assembly:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook noodles according to package directions, drain well.
3. Spread 1 cup (250 ml) of sauce in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish. Top with 3 to 4 noodles, trimming to fit.
4. Repeat with 1 cup (250 ml) sauce and a second layer of noodles. Spread noodles with 1 cup (250 ml) sauce and half of the cheese filling.
5. Arrange half of the sliced hard-boiled eggs evenly over top.
6. Add another layer of noodles, sauce, remaining cheese filling and sliced eggs. Finish with remaining noodles and sauce.
Bake:
1. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
2. Uncover and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake for 15 minutes or until cheese is melted.
3. In large bowl, beat eggs. Add eggs to potato and onion mixture. Stir in diced ham or prosciutto. Reduce heat to low and cook 8-10 minutes until golden brown on bottom. Invert platter on pan and flip omelet onto plate. Add remaining olive oil to pan; slide omelet back into pan.
4. Cook until golden brown on bottom.
5. Slide omelet onto serving plate. Let cool. Cut into wedges.
