Regulars Category

by Sue Hodgson – There’s nothing like spring on the Saanich Peninsula. As greens and colourful flowers are starting to pop up everywhere, it really does feel like new beginnings are just around the corner. You might also notice that we have a new look to our First and Last Word columns. It was an idea that originated from one of our readers. It’s wonderful to see how engaged our community is, when readers are taking the time to not only comment on what they love about the magazine, butRead More

by Tracey Jones, Remarkable Interiors – COFFEE TABLE STYLING ESSENTIALS After choosing a look or style that fits your aesthetic (think – what is the look I’m drawn to?), it’s time to layer on your pretty things! Here are some coffee table essentials. Books. This is the reason there are “Coffee Table Books!” I love books and thrift for gorgeous ones! Whatever your interest is, there is a book out there. I also search for cover colour within my theme. Candles. Candles are universal ambience setters. Whether scented or justRead More

by Joan Saunders | Photos by Amanda Cribdon Photography – For years, I dreamed of trying to bake macarons but didn’t even make the attempt. I foolishly believed that you had to speak French, work in a pristine patisserie and have special training to create these lovely treats. I was wrong! While it does take a bit of organization and preparation, making macarons is not difficult. The first time I tried the recipe I remember saying: “Look at the foot; they have the macaron foot!” I was astonished and soRead More

by Dr. Marita Schauch, ND – Tall Tree Integrated Health Centre – How did you sleep last night? If you’re like around half of all Canadians, the answer is probably “OK” or “not that great.” Getting good sleep is one of the most important things we can do for our health. What’s the big deal about sleep? If you’re saying to yourself “I’m doing OK with my five hours a night,” I’d like to ask you: are you sure? Long-term studies show that poor sleep habits may cause depression, increasedRead More

by Deborah Rogers | Photos by Janis Jean Photography – If you want to see the story behind the thousands of cheerful yellow blooms we find in our stores from February to April, you have to get up early. My visit to Longview Farms in Central Saanich started at 7 a.m. and there were already plenty of people going about their working day. Each season between three and five million blooms are sent out from this warehouse, all grown in the soil of the Saanich Peninsula. That’s something to feelRead More