THE Local Guide for Active Urban Families November/December 2010 FREE

Tapping the Power Within

WinterFun forEveryone!Party Guide, Winter Events, and Our Holiday Gift Guide!Our 2nd Annual Readers’ Choice Winners and Results are Here!

www.cefa.ca

www.gosafetrampoline.com

www.sylvanbc.ca

www.recreation.surrey.ca

6 WestCoastFamilies.com

7November/December 2010

8 WestCoastFamilies.com

39

Our Education Issue!

Early Learning Resources

Dance & Theatres Schools

WestCoast Mom: Have a Happy Body!

Jan/Feb

40 WCM Profile Azar Moayeri of Parissa

41 WCM Feature Tapping the Power Within

42 “Final Reveal” for Makeover Moms!

43 WCM Events

In Our Next Issue

From the Editor

10 Editor’s Note10 Your Thoughts13 WCF News14 Contests15 WCF Presents38 Community Calendar44 Where to Pick Up WCF

Features18 Our 2nd Annual Readers’ Choices Awards Results Are In!26 Holiday Gift Guide!32 Shopping for Change Over the Holidays 34 Winter Party Guide!

Columns12 WestCoast Finds16 Health Omega-3 Oil—Why Your Child Needs It17 In the Kitchen Beets are Beautiful!20 Reading Corner21 Parenting Learning to Let Go of Your Kids33 Travel The Adventures of Orca 346 Last Look Snowman Collage

November/December 2010

Winter Fun!Fabulous winter and

holiday events for the

whole family!

Taiyo (eight) and his sister Hanako (six) are ready for the season!

Photographed by Bopomo Pictures. www.bopomo.ca

On Our Cover

Sign Up for Our Email BlastAnd get Exclusive Access to

Online ContestsLatest Finds & Deals

Special OffersEvent Listings

…and much more!

THE Local Guide for Active Urban Families November/December 2010 FREE

Tapping the Power Within

WinterFun forEveryone!Party Guide, Winter Events, and Our Holiday Gift Guide!Our 2nd Annual Readers’ Choice Winners and Results are Here!

Top Story

23

Follow us on Twitter!twitter.com/wcfmag

9November/December 2010

10 WestCoastFamilies.com

13988 Maycrest Way, Suite 140,2nd FloorRichmond, BC V6V 3C3Tel: 604.249.2866 Fax: 604.247.1331westcoastfamilies.cominfo@westcoastfamilies.com

Publisher Andrea Vancepublisher@westcoastfamilies.com

Managing Editor Anya Levykheditor@westcoastfamilies.com

Art Director & Layout Krysta Furiosostudio@westcoastfamilies.com

Accounts Receivable & Bookkeeping Jennifer Bruléfinance@westcoastfamilies.com

Administration / Editorial Assistant Jennifer Bruynsadmin@westcoastfamilies.com

Advertising Inquiriessales@westcoastfamilies.com604-249-2866

For distribution inquiries, please contact: Jennifer Bruyns

Contributors:Bopomo Pictures, Debbie Bowman, Jen Bruyns, Amy Fardell, Cori Howard, Heather Lochner, Chris Pike Photography, Shari Pratt, Gina Spanos, Andrea Undseth.

WestCoast Families (WCF) is an independent, regional parenting publication. As the Lower Mainland’s prime resource for happy, healthy & active families, WCF provides informative and relevant content.

All contents copyrighted ©. Written permission from the publisher is required to reproduce, quote, reprint or copy any material from WestCoast Families.

PUBLICATIONS MAIL 40027247

Published nine times per year in British Columbia, Canada. Total circulation: 50,000

For queries about editorial submissions, please view the contributor guidelines on our website.

To submit a community calendar event or share your feedback, please email info@westcoastfamilies.com.

WestCoast Families is proud to have been selected as a mom-friendly

employer for the 2010 Progressive Employers of Canada List. And

congratulations to our fellow inductees!

Phot

ogra

phed

by

eclip

seph

otog

raph

y.ca

I just wanted to say that I feel the same way [as the writer], thank you for publishing [Baby Culture, October]. I am originally from Mexico and that is one of the things I miss so much about my culture living in Canada. Having a baby here is so tough…there is no sisterhood, unfortunately it’s not only for moms, the indifference and coldness is shown in other situations too. Thank you again, and congratulate Cori for the article.Nancy G.

Enjoyed the article “Learning at Home: How Parents Can Help Children Learn Both In and Outside of School” [September]. It reinforced the importance of being an involved parent, reading together, life learning and play, and touched on homeschooling. As a single father, I do my best to do all of those as much as possible with my daughter, who is now in grade one. The problem that I am facing is that she now finds school boring and that she is not learning anything new. Any suggestions?Grant B.

here has been rather a dearth of the “attitude of gratitude” around my house of late. Enforcement of bedtimes has been met lately with “Humph!” and

subsequent stomping on the stairs. Requests to clean things up receive much eye-rolling, bottomless sighs and hunching of shoulders. And then there is the “Can I have a treat?” scene that we all enjoy so much.

I began to wonder if my child had not become possessed by the soul of some nasty little gremlin during a brief moment when my back was turned. Instead of feeling joy at the upcoming holiday season, I began to feel despair and the beginnings of a truly massive headache.

And then I realized something. When was the last time I had encouraged my child to think of someone besides herself? Whether admonitory (Clean your room. Brush your teeth. Don’t scratch the furniture.) or congratulatory (Yes, you can have that doll. What a good girl you are! That was smart.), the end result lately has been her thinking only about herself. And, only I could take the blame, for hadn’t I been doing the same thing?

There was only one thing to do. I sat my daughter down and, instead of asking her what she wanted for her holiday presents, I asked her who she would like to help over the holidays, and how. I think my question stumped her at first, but she took only a few minutes to think it over. Her answers floored me.

As a new mom, I was excited to read your October issue of West Coast Families. However, after reading your article by Cori Howard [Baby Culture, October], I was left feeling a bit dismayed. I have found people in Vancouver to be very helpful whenever I am out with my 8 month old daughter, her big stroller, bulky diaper bag, and my year old puppy. People are great at holding open doors, being sensitive when she is screaming in restaurants, and giving me reassuring pieces of advice when I am feeling overwhelmed. I don’t feel we live in a place where people have a “disconcerting hatred of mothers” nor do I feel we “devalue motherhood.” The movie Babies was beautiful but I don’t believe was intended to offer solutions to problems parents may have in society with their children. I believe it was intended to show the resilience and love babies have no matter where they are brought up. I felt for Ms. Howard, as I am sure many of your readers did, but please do not make such assumptions about people living on the West Coast as being so un-baby-friendly based on one negative experience. Has she been to every other country south of the U.S. border and on the other side of the puddle?Raj L.

“I want to help the doggies who don’t have homes, because they’re hungry,” she said firmly. “And I want to help the babies in Oo-gaan-da who don’t have mommies. Can we send them blankies? And little teeny baby shoes?”

I don’t know where my daughter heard about hungry dogs or orphaned babies in Uganda—most unfortunately, it wasn’t from me—but I could only be grateful and take it in stride. “Of course, we can, sweetie,” I replied. And thus our search for supplies and recipients began. I still receive the occasional eye-roll or stomping fit, but I also notice a new set of her shoulders, a certain confidence and happiness, that has banished most of the gremlin from our midst.

All of this has led me to ask: Why do we need a holiday in order to think of others? Shouldn’t this be something we do year-round? And, yes, many people already do. To my shame, I was not one of them. But I am going to approach this season with the belief that, from now on, I—and my daughter—will be, and that is certainly something worth celebrating.

See you next year,

Got anything to say, rant about or praise? We want to hear it all! Email editor@westcoastfamilies.com with your comments, questions and suggestions, and be entered to win monthly prizes!

editor’s note

your thoughts

T

[Holiday] gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect.~ Oren Arnold, novelist, journalist, humorist (1900-1980)

11November/December 2010

12 WestCoastFamilies.com

Rising levels of allergic asthma and eczema in North American children have Canadian scientists wondering if there is such a thing as being “too clean.” “We see auto-immune diseases like asthma and eczema increasing rapidly in North American children, but we don’t see the same effect in children in the developing world,” says Dr. B. Brett Finlay, a Professor in the Michael Smith Laboratories at the University of British Columbia.

This has led Dr. Finlay to embark on a new project called The Impact of the Microbiota on Immune Development and Disease that will look at microbiota (a kind of bacteria or microorganism that lives in or on our body) and its potential link to auto-immune illnesses in children. Scientists will look at the increasing evidence that intestinal microbiota, the bacteria that live in our gut, has an impact on immune development and disease, including asthma and eczema.

“The so-called ‘hygiene hypothesis’ is the idea that we are killing off good bacteria along with bad bacteria with some of our habits, whether it is bleaching countertops or antibiotic use in early childhood,” says Finlay. “If these intestinal bacteria play a role in preventing auto-immune diseases, then our desire to be ultra-clean may mean that kids aren’t getting the bacteria they need to have strong immune systems later in life.”

Finlay has assembled an interdisciplinary team to study the intestinal microbiota. Sequencing the microbiota populations should allow researchers to identify the various types that are living in the gut. The team will then examine mice models and track the health development of young Canadian children enrolled in the Canadian Healthy Infant Longitudinal Development Study (CHILD) in order to both better understand the role microbiota plays in the immune system, and ultimately find new information to treat asthma and other illnesses. The five year project is funded in part by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and Genome BC. For more information on Genome BC, visit www.genomebc.ca.

The Eczema Society of Canada has launched its eczema awareness campaign, and reminds Canadians with eczema or sensitive skin that protection through using a good moisturizer is an important line of defence against irritated and itchy skin. Finding an effective moisturizer can be a complicated endeavour, which involves understanding the ideal moisturizer composition. There are three key components to all moisturizers: humectants, occlusives, and emollients. The best moisturizer will have the right balance of all three. These three components all perform important actions that contribute to the moisturizer’s effectiveness and texture.• Emollients: Lipids and oils that hydrate and improve the appearance of the skin by contributing softness, smoothness, and flexibility. An example is shea butter.• Humectants: attract water from the deeper layer of skin epidermis (to the stratum corneum). Common examples are Urea, hylaluronic acid, sodium PCA and glycerine.• Occlusives: slow the evaporation of water from the surface of the skin. They are effective but tend to be greasy and feel heavy. Examples include Vaseline, mineral oil, beeswax and lanolin. The ideal moisturizer uses the right proportions of emollients, humectants and occlusives.

How to Choose a Moisturizer• Choose a moisturizer formulated for sensitive skin or eczema.• Avoid moisturizers that have high water content (e.g., lotions) as they can actually dry skin.• Find a moisturizer that includes a good balance of all three moisturizing components.• Choose a brand that the eczema sufferer’s sensitive skin will tolerate and which has a pleasant texture he or she will enjoy using. This is the best defence against recurrent flares.• Consider the cost of the product. Sometimes what seems like an inexpensive moisturizer can end up being more costly since you have to apply more to obtain the same results.

For more information on the Eczema Society of Canada, please visit www.eczemahelp.ca.

wcf news

The Hygiene Hypothesis

In the Meanwhile…

13November/December 2010

westcoast finds

New Canadian Interactive Digital Children’s BookComing soon! The Real Life Adventures of Mabel & Lulu is a children’s story that will only be available as a digital app. Following the adventures of real-life dogs Mabel and Lulu, and voiced by children, the stories include over 100 touch-based animations and interactions, with two reading and interaction options for younger and older readers. App for iPhone/iPod Touch $1.99; iPad version in HD $3.99. A portion of all proceeds goes to fund spay and neuter clinics. Available mid-November from Apple’s App Store or by visiting www.apphausdesign.com or www.mabelandlulu.com.

East Side FindFamilies in the Strathcona/Commercial Drive neighbourhoods, take note! The Pod, a new arts centre for children, has opened right next door to the Cultch and is now offering a diverse range of both drop-in and regular classes for children aged four to 14 years. Courses include painting, collage, textiles, pottery, jewellery arts, book-making and storytelling. Plus, The Pod offer Date Nights on Friday nights, for parents who want to enjoy an evening out while the kids enjoy an art class and a movie, as well as parties for kids. www.thepodarts.com

Cool Art FindPetite Collage Gallery Corners are a fab new way to display your little Picasso’s every changing art collection. These removable and reusable fabric decals (no vinyl!) are available as triangles or circles and work on any non-porous flat surface. $18 at Saplings Sustainable Kids. www.saplings.ca.

Cool CakesIn Birthday Cakes for Kids, author Annie Riggs shows you how to make fuss-free, imaginative cakes for all ages. Chapters on Animals, Wigs and Wheels, Fantasy, and Wildlife offer all sorts of cake ideas for novice and confident bakers alike. Includes over 60 recipes, step-by-steps and diagrams for the harder techniques of baking and decorating. SRP $19.95.

Cool Party IdeaCookies Of Course, the brainchild of a Vancouver mom, will deliver a bucket of cookie dough in one of several flavours right to your home. Just scoop out the dough onto baking sheets and let the smell of warm, fresh-baked cookies tantalize your guests. $39.95 for a 5 kg pail, which will make 100 cookies. Delivery charges apply. www.cookiesofcourse.ca

14 WestCoastFamilies.com

contests

WIN! This Mega Brand Deluxe Gift Set (Value $210)Mega Brand toys encourage creativity and inspire imaginations. Perfect for big boys and little boys, this deluxe gift package includes the Dragons Universe Ultimate Action Dragon Destroyer (ages 6+), Dragons Universe Deluxe Dual-Blast Dragon Hunter, Mega Bloks Thomas & Friends Adventures on Misty Island (ages 3+), and the Pull Along Musical Pirate Ship (ages 1+). www.megabrands.com

BONUS! Also receive the Monopoly Canada board game with digital banking from Toys R Us. www.toysrus.ca

Deadline to Enter: December 8, 2010

WIN! Four tickets to see Toopy & Binoo! (Value $107)This January, come see Toopy and Binoo in their theatrical debut, Toopy and Binoo and the Marshmallow Moon. Toopy has to not only find the perfect song to sing, but he also has to find the perfect place to perform it! As Toopy and his best friend Binoo embark on their most important musical quest ever, they encounter a Blue Cat Blues Band, a Loud Mouth Crooner Fish, some Rock n’ Roll Sheep, a pair of Love Struck Dragons and many other zany characters along the way. Win tickets to the January 8 performance at The Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts. www.ticketmaster.caDeadline to Enter: December 15, 2010

WIN! A Chocolate Party for 8 Kids from Schokolade! (Value $160)Schokolade Artisan Chocolate & Café in Vancouver specializes in hand-crafted chocolates made from natural, fair trade ingredients. Their store carries a wide variety of products, and the café offers, among other tasty treats, a sumptuous chocolate high tea! Win a fabulous chocolate party for up to eight children, redeemable any Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday (up to a value of $160). www.schokoladecafe.com

Deadline to Enter: December 31, 2010

WIN! This Adorable Mouse Wheely Bug from Boomers & Echoes! (Value $95)The distinctive shape of the Original Wheely Bug is very user friendly. Children don’t get stuck against obstacles and Wheely Bugs help promote gross motor skills and balance. Wheely Bug bodies have a padded layer of sponge which is covered with a tough layer of polyurethane leatheroid and can be easily wiped clean. Boomers & Echoes is a family-run one-stop mom shop that has been operating on the North Shore for over 28 years. Organic gifts, strollers, mattresses, custom nursing bra fittings, find it all at their store, along with knowledgeable and friendly staff. www.boomersandechoes.com

Deadline to Enter: December 15, 2010

WIN! The Toddler-Sized Go Safe Trampoline! (Value $100)Perfect for small spaces, this 35”L x 35”W x 32”H toddler trampoline assembles in two minutes and meets or exceeds all ASTM Safety Toy Standards. Folds flat for easy storage, and great for kids ages 3+ up to 80 lbs. The ergonomic cushion safety bar provides a super firm grip, and jumping area features well-padded edging. www.gosafetrampoline.com

Deadline to Enter: December 15, 2010

WIN! The S113 Large Square Springfree Trampoline (Value $1,299)Measuring 11 feet square, the Springfree trampoline uses a patented FlexiRod-based safety system to eliminate the hard frames on traditional trampolines. Instead, the frame is located below the jumping surface, making it impossible to land on. Additional cushioning protects jumpers and prevents hard falls. The rods provide a gentle but firm enclosure that softens falls and prevents injuries. With no actual springs, and no hard edges, this might just be the safest trampoline in the world! www.springfreetrampoline.caDeadline to Enter: December 31, 2010

Enter to win any of these great prizes online at www.westcoastfamilies.com!

15November/December 2010

Langley Events Centre, 7888 – 200 St. | November 24, 1pm-8pmBenefiting the Langley Child Development Centre, this is a one-stop Christmas shopping opportunity for all families. Over 30 unique vendors selling quality new toys and products for children of all ages (birth to teen). Child-minding by donation from 2:30pm to 7pm. Get 5”x7” photos (courtesy of Bopomo Pictures), by donation to Langley CDC. There will be hundreds of dollars worth of door prizes. Free admission.langleycdc.com

November 28, noon-4pmThe Westin Bayshore Hotel1601 Bayshore Dr, VancouverFind the best school for your child: preschools, high schools, single-sex and co-ed, Montessori, special needs, gifted, IB and AP schools. The Vancouver Private School Expo is an exclusive event featuring leading K to 12 private and independent schools from the greater Vancouver area and abroad. This one-day event is a must for families looking to explore private and independent school education options. Speak with education experts and consultants from 25+ schools and attend free information seminars on “choosing a school,” “financial planning” and “the boarding school experience.” For free admission tickets, pre-register online, otherwise tickets can be purchased at the door for $10 per family.www.ourkids.net/expo

Ongoing until November 21 | Ingledew’s locationsIt’s official, Ingledew’s will again be a shoe box pick-up and drop-off location for Operation Christmas Child this fall. Empty (and recycled) shoe boxes can be picked up at any Ingledew’s location now until November 21. Gift-filled shoe boxes can be dropped off at any Ingledew’s location November 10–21. For more information please contact Pascale Ingledew at sales@ingledew.com. For more information on Operation Christmas Child, please visit the Samaritan’s Purse website.www.samaritanspurse.ca/occ | www.ingledews.com

November 26-January 2, 3pm-10pm More than a million twinkling lights transform the forest, the train and children’s farmyard areas in the middle of the city’s wondrous Stanley Park. Bright Nights is enhanced by entertainment, dozens of delightful animated displays and more—carrying on the tradition started with the first Christmas Train over thirty years ago. Visit Santa in his ‘Living Room’ at the Train Station. Mortal Coil’s fabulous creations bring laughter and artistry to the Park. Christmas tunes serenade you as you ride the train. Professional and community choirs and bands will also be in the Plaza on special nights. All donations collected at the event, and partial proceeds from the sale of tickets for the train, go to the BC Professional Firefighters’ Burn Fund to help burn survivors and their families. Admission includes a ride on the train and a visit to the children’s farmyard. Tickets can be purchased in advance through Ticketmaster, or the same day at the ticket booth in the Train Plaza in Stanley Park. Farmyard open 3pm to 9pm. Adult $9; Child $6.604.257.8531 | vancouver.ca

wcf presents

Lower Mainland Annual Toy & Product Fair

Vancouver Private School Expo

Operation Christmas Child

Bright Nights at Stanley Park

16 WestCoastFamilies.com

mega-3 fat is considered the queen of fats because it does so much for the entire body. In fact, every cell of your body depends on omega-3 oil for performing vital functions. Omega-3 fats are considered to be

essential because your body can’t create it from other sources. Instead, you must get it from the foods you eat. Unfortunately, most of us don’t get enough.

As a result of our western diet, over eighty-five percent of the population is deficient in omega-3 oils, especially children. Experts say that we are currently in the third or fourth generation of deficiency in this area, which accounts for our increasing neurological and mental health problems.

Why are we deficient in this integral fat? Mainly it’s because omega-3 fats are unsaturated, and as a result, they are prone to damage by cooking and processing. The more processed foods you eat, the less omega-3 oils you’ll get. In addition, there are many anti-nutrients we consume that actually compete with the good fats for absorption. These anti-nutrients are trans-fats from hydrogenated oils and from foods deep-fried in rancid oils or oils inappropriate for high heat cooking—foods such as commercially prepared French fries, potato chips and corn chips.

What does an omega-3 deficiency cause? In children, omega-3 deficiencies often cause depression, anxiety, allergies, behaviour problems, dyslexia, ADHD, coordination difficulties and reading difficulties. On the flip side, children with increased omega-3 consumption consistently show improvements in school grades and behaviour.

But how can you improve your child’s intake? Here’s a list of foods high in this essential oil: oily fish such as wild salmon and trout, flaxseeds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds, and leafy green vegetables. Some parents may look at this list and cringe, wondering how they can get their kids to eat more of these foods.

health

O

By Debbie Bowman

Omega-3 OilWhy Your Child Needs It

I’m a fat head and proud of it. Well, actually, I’m not so special—we’re all fat

heads. That’s because sixty percent of our brain’s dry weight is fat. And your

brain depends on that fat for everything it does. Every thought, every action is

facilitated by your brain fats. Furthermore, twenty-five percent of the dry weight

of your brain is made up of one very special fat—omega-3 fat.Some yummy, kid-friendly recipesSalmon Nuggets• 1 wild salmon fillet (approx. 1.5 kg.), skinned and all bones removed• 1 tsp. salt• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1. Cut salmon into 3 or 4 long strips lengthwise across the salmon, then cut cross-wise, forming 1-inch cubed pieces. Season with salt and garlic powder.

2. In three separate bowls, place bread crumbs, whipped eggs and flour. Place salmon in flour, remove and dust off excess. Place floured salmon into egg mixture, then remove and place salmon in the bread crumbs.

3. Pat to make sure bread crumbs are evenly distributed over the cubed fish.

4. Salmon may be breaded and frozen for advance preparation. In a skillet with 1 inch canola oil, fry salmon nuggets until golden brown. Freshly breaded will take 3-4 minutes, frozen will take 5-7 minutes. Allow excess oil to drain off. Serve with tartar sauce for dipping.

Omega 3 Salad Dressing• 1/2 cup flaxseed oil• 1/2 cup water• 1/3 cup lemon juice• 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar

Blend in blender until smooth. Dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Oh! Mega Muffins• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour• 1/4 cup ground walnuts• 1/2 cup ground flaxseeds• 1/4 tsp. baking powder• 1 tsp. baking soda• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar• 1/2 tsp. salt

1. Mix first eight ingredients together.2. Mix in eggs, oil, pumpkin, and yogurt. Then mix in chocolate chips.3. Spoon into a lined muffin tin and sprinkle with pumpkin seeds.4. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes.

Makes 12 large muffins. You can replace the pumpkin with four or five mashed bananas.

Tartar Sauce• 1 cup mayonnaise• 1/8 cup flaxseed oil• 2 tbsp. lemon juice

Blend well with a whisk and serve.

• 1 cup fine bread crumbs• 4 omega-3 enriched eggs• 1 cup all-purpose flour as needed• Cold-pressed canola oil for frying

• 1/4 cup tamari sauce• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast• 1 tsp. mustard• 3 tbsp. honey

• 1 tsp. cinnamon• 2 omega-3 enriched eggs• 1/4 cup cold-pressed canola oil• 1-398 mL can pureed pumpkin• 1/2 cup plain yogurt• 1/2 cup chocolate chips• pumpkin seeds for tops of muffins

• 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish• 1 tsp. dill

17November/December 2010

There are creative ways to increase your child’s intake of omega-3 oils however, such as incorporating seeds and nuts into baked goods and using omega-3 enriched eggs. But if you just can’t get your child to consume these foods, you can do two things:

Decrease his consumption of the anti-nutrients discussed earlier and give him supplements—like one teaspoon of flaxseed oil daily or omega-3 oil capsules. There are supplements on the market specifically geared to kids, just be sure to purchase supplements in a reputable health food store to ensure high quality.

Whatever you do, persevere, as this is one of the healthiest changes you can make in your child’s diet. In fact, every cell of your child’s body will benefit from his increased intake of omega-3 oil. As far as behaviour is concerned, some children show behavioural improvements within two weeks, but that’s in extreme cases. For most individuals, it takes twelve weeks to build up the body’s store of omega-3 oils, and it may take six to twelve months before noticeable changes occur.

Debbie Bowman is a mother of two and a Vancouver-based writer who is in the process of becoming a registered holistic nutritionist.

By Andrea Undseth

in the kitchenBeets are Beautiful!

B

Ingredients2-3 medium beets, grated2 tbsp shallots, minced3 tbsp of mint, chopped3 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed2 tbsp canola oil

eets are a beautiful colour and have a rich smoky flavour. Lucky for us, they are in season until December. This dish will brighten up any plate, whether it is your quick side or a centerpiece for your upcoming Christmas menu. Whatever the occasion, these beets will

have everyone at your table humming.

The Urban Chef Side: Beets with Mint and Lime Juice

Preparation1. In a food processor, using a grating blade, grate the beets. The strands should be no thicker than a spaghetti noodle. Use a hand grater if you do not own a food processor.2. Mince the shallot and set aside.3. Wash and chop the mint and set aside.4. Squeeze the lime and set the juice aside.5. Heat a sauté pan on medium-high. Add the shallots and cook until golden brown.6. Add the beets and sauté for about 3 minutes. The beets do not need to be cooked, just hot all the way through.7. Once hot, take the pan off the heat and toss the beets in the mint and lime juice. Serve hot.

Creative ways to increase your child’s consumption of omega-3 oils• Use flaxseed oil in salad dressings.

• Put ground flaxseeds in blended fruit smoothies.

• Use omega-3 enriched eggs.

• Incorporate ground walnuts and ground flaxseeds into home-baked goods, pancakes and waffles. The lower heat used for baking will not degrade the omega-3 oils.

• Cut open supplement capsules and squeeze the oil into applesauce or yogurt. You can do the same with flaxseed oil.

• 1 tsp. cinnamon• 2 omega-3 enriched eggs• 1/4 cup cold-pressed canola oil• 1-398 mL can pureed pumpkin• 1/2 cup plain yogurt• 1/2 cup chocolate chips• pumpkin seeds for tops of muffins Andrea Undseth is a local personal chef who provides meal service and other culinary solutions for busy families.

A parent herself, she understands the gift of time. For more information visit her at www.theurbanchef.ca.

18 WestCoastFamilies.com

We’ve finished tallying all of the votes and have sorted through the hundreds of suggestions and comments you all so kindly provided. Not only did we learn a lot about our readers’ preferences when it comes to products, services and outings, but we learned a lot about you, our readers—what you like, what you love, what you want to read more about, and what you could stand to see less of.

We also appreciated the humour and common sense a lot of you showed in your answers, like the voter who, in response to the “Best Toy (4-7 years)” category, simply stated “my patience!” and the many voters who simply chose “the outdoors” as the best play place for your kids. We’ve learned about what we’re doing right, and what we can improve on. We are definitely taking your suggestions to heart, and hope that you will keep on providing them!

And now…[drumroll, please!]...we announce the winners of our Grand Prize and Runner-Up Prize Packages!

Congratulations to the Crum family, who won the Grand Prize Ultimate Family Pass, which includes the following:• Capilano Suspension Bridge• Greater Vancouver Zoo• H.R. McMillan Planetarium

Also, congratulations to the Dinwoodie and Lu families, who were the respective winners of our runner-up prizes from Carousel Theatre and The Great Escape.

And, last, but not least, our sincere thanks to all of the prize sponsors for the 2010 Readers’ Choice Awards:

ReadersChoiceawards2nd Annual

is pleased to announce the official results

of our

Our 2nd Annual Readers’ Choice Awards Results are Here!

• Maplewood Farm• Museum of Vancouver• Science World

• Vancouver Aquarium• Vancouver Art Gallery• Vancouver Maritime Museum

• Vancouver Police Museum• VanDusen Botanical Garden

PLUS: Four Season PlayPasses to Playland 2011 (April through September)

19November/December 2010

And now, here are the results of all the votes that we received. Categories with less than five votes are not awarded, or where there is more than a two-way tie. Stay tuned next spring for the launch of our 2011 awards!

The Votes Are In and the Results Are…GOLD SILVER BRONZE

Children’s Clothing Store•The Children’s Place•Gap/Baby Gap•Please Mum

Maternity Store•Thyme Maternity•Motherhood Maternity•Boomers & Echoes

Adult/Maternity Consignment •Boomers & Echoes •Value Village •Turnabout Clothing

Children’s Consignment•Boomers & Echoes•MacGillicuddy’s for Little People•Little Critters Outfitters

Shoe Store—General•Payless ShoeSource•Aldo•Ronson’s

Shoe Store—Infant/Children’s •Panda Shoes•Payless ShoeSource•Walmart

Shopping Area•Metropolis at Metrotown•Park Royal Shopping Centre•Coquitlam Centre

Children’s Bookstore•Kidsbooks•Chapters/Indigo•Black Bond Books

Adult General Bookstore•Chapters/Indigo•Black Bond Books•Book Warehouse

Children’s Furniture Store•IKEA•Pottery Barn Kids•TJ’s The Kiddies Store

Infant/Toddler Store•Babies/Toys “R” Us•TJ’s The Kiddies Store•Baby’s World

Stroller Brand•Peg Perego•Graco•Mountain Buggy

Infant/Toddler Carseat Brand•Graco•Britax•Peg Perego

Infant/Toddler Highchair•Graco•Peg Perego•Fisher Price

Breast Pump•Medela•Avent•Ameda

Midwife/ Doula Services•Pomegranate Midwives •The Midwifery Group•Mother Me

Dance Program•Arts Umbrella•Shadbolt Centre for the Arts•Local community centres

Day Camps•YMCA•St. George’s School•Pedalheads Bike Camps

Family Sleepover Event•Vancouver Aquarium•Greater Vancouver Zoo•Science World

Paediatric Dentist•PDG Dental Group•Child’s Play Pediatric Dentistry•Monarch Pediatric Centre

Paediatric Doctors•Kensington Medical Clinic•n/a•n/a

Optometrist•Iris•Pacific Eye Doctors•n/a

Cosmetic/Dermatology Clinic•Vancouver Laser & Skin Care Centre•n/a•n/a

Beauty/Health Spa•Spa Utopia•Eccotique Spas & Salons•Absolute Spa Group

Ladies Only Fitness Program/Gym•Curves•She’s Fit•Just Ladies Fitness

Family Fitness Program/Gym•YMCA/YWCA•Fitness World•Local recreation centres

Bootcamp/Gym•Fitness World•Cardio Core Bootcamp•Survivor Bootcamp

Pharmacy/Drugstore•Shopper’s Drug Mart•London Drugs•n/a

Infant Toy (Birth-1 yr)•Sophie the Giraffe•Evenflo Exersaucer•Manhattan Toy Whoozit

Toddler Toy (1-3 yrs)•Lego Duplo•Fisher Price Little People•Leap Frog

Children’s Toy (4-7 yrs)•Lego•Playmobil•Thomas the Tank Engine

Children’s Toy (8-12 yrs)•Lego•Nintendo DS•A bike

Computer/Video Game•Super Mario Bros.•Nintendo Wii•Disney Club Penguin

Children’s Movie •How to Train Your Dragon•Despicable Me•The Princess & the Frog

Children’s TV Program•Sesame Street•The Backyardigans•Dora the Explorer

Stationery/School Supplies Store•Staples•Walmart•Real Canadian Superstore

Preschool Program•Montessori•Play-based•Waldorf

Preschool•Wind & Tide Preschools•Wesbrook Preschool•n/a

Learning/Tutoring Centre•Sylvan•Kumon•Oxford

Local Family Attraction•Vancouver Aquarium•Science World•(TIE) Greater Vancouver Zoo/ Maplewood Farms

Annual Baby/Family Show/Fair/Event•PNE/Playland•Annual Baby & Family Fair•Vancouver International Children’s Festival

Local Day Trip•Whistler•Vancouver Aquarium •(TIE) Greater Vancouver Zoo/ White Rock Beach

Vacation Destination within BC•Okanagan•Whistler•Tofino

Vacation Destination outside BC•Disneyland•Hawaii•Mexico

Family Campsite•Cultus Lake•Golden Ears•Alice Lake

Family Ski Area•Whistler/Blackcomb•Cypress• Grouse Mountain

Travel Agency/Resource•(TIE) BCAA/Expedia•Flight Centre•Jubilee/Travel Best Bets

Nanny Agency•Nannies on Call•Susan’s Nannies•Not Just Nannies

Baby Food—Prepared•Heinz•Gerber•Earth’s Best

Children’s Snack Food—Prepared•Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Crackers•Baby Mum-Mum Rice Crackers•Gerber Graduates Snacks

Family Restaurant•White Spot•Boston Pizza•Red Robin

Natural Food Store•Choices Markets•Whole Foods/Capers•n/a

Grocery Store•Real Canadian Superstore•Save-On Foods•Safeway

Grocery Delivery Service•Spuds•(TIE) Safeway/Thrifty’s•n/a

Ice Cream Parlour•Dairy Queen •Marble Slab •Mario’s Gelato

Fast Food•McDonald’s•Wendy’s•Subway

Pizza•Panago Pizza•Boston Pizza•Pizza Hut

Parents’ Night Out Restaurant•The Keg•Milestones•Cactus Club

Activity Play Centre•Crash Crawly’s •The Great Escape•Go Bananas

Swim Program•Killarney Community Centre•Canadian Red Cross•Aquaventures

Child Music Program•Gymboree Play & Music•(TIE) Music for Young Children/ Music Together Phoenix Song •n/a

Gymnastics Program•Phoenix Gymnastics•Cartwheels•Gymboree Play & Music

Children’s Acting Program•Arts Umbrella•Stagecraft Theatre School•Carousel Theatre School

Job Hunting Resource•Workopolis•Craigslist•Monster

Home Party Business•PartyLite•Tupperware•(TIE) Epicure/Pampered Chef

Most Family-Friendly Employer•City of Surrey•(TIE) Telus/Worksafe BC•(TIE) Vancity Credit Union/Kodak

Family Photographer•Bopomo•Sears Portrait Studios•Kidsphoto

Children’s Hair Salon•Melonhead•Great Clips•Sparky’z Kutz for Kidz

Children’s Party Venue•Crash Crawly’s •Go Bananas •Chuck E. Cheese’s

Party Supply Store•The Party Bazaar•Dollarama•Party Tailors

Children’s Entertainer/Performer•Bobs & Lolo• Charlotte Diamond•Music with Marnie

Birthday Cakes/Bakery•Dairy Queen•Safeway•Save-On-Foods

Parent Resource Website•WestCoast Families •Baby Centre•Today’s Parent

Mom’s Network/Group•Local community centres•Yoyomama•Momcafé

Location to pick up WCF•(TIE) Local libraries/ Community centres•Safeway •Granville Island/Kids Market

20 WestCoastFamilies.com

reading corner

Great Reads for Everyone!

The Legend of the Golden Snail written and illustrated by Graeme BaseA young boy’s favourite storybook tells of a Golden Snail that lived long ago in the mythical Spiral Isles. When it journeyed through its magical realm, it took on the shape of a fantastical golden sailing ship. Featuring Graeme Base’s visually stunning signature art (packed with details, including a hidden “snail and crossbones” to search for in each picture) and

a bonus mini book (bound in, nonremovable), The Legend of the Golden Snail is an adventure unlike any other. Ages 5 to 9. SRP $24.95.

Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren, various illustratorsNovember 14 is the anniversary of popular children writer Astrid Lindgren’s birth, and what better way to celebrate than by gifting her timeless Pippi Longstocking series to your children? Pippi is an irrepressible, irreverent, and irrefutably delightful girl who lives alone (with a monkey) in her wacky house, Villa Villekulla. When she’s not dancing with the burglars who were just trying

to rob her house, she’s attempting to learn the “pluttification” tables at school; fighting Adolf, the strongest man in the world at the circus; or playing tag with police officers. Pippi’s high-spirited, good-natured hijinks cause as much trouble as fun, but a more generous child you won’t find anywhere. Ages 8 to 12. SRP $7.50 and up.

Mimi Loves to Mimic/Mimi Says No by Yih-Fen Chou, illustrated by Chih-Yuan ChenIn Mimi Loves to Mimic, petite Mimi imitates all of the grown-up things her family does—much to their initial

chagrin—though soon her mimicry results in a heart-warming round of cuddles. In Mimi Says No, Mimi exerts her independence and insists on doing everything—including pouring her own milk and walking to the park—without assistance. But when Mimi falls off the slide, her mom is standing by and ready to help. Ages 2 to 6. SRP $10.95 each.

Princess Baby On the Go written and illustrated by Karen KatzKaren Katz’s adorable young heroine now stars in her own lift-the-flap board book! Help Princess Baby pack her bag—she’s going to Grandma’s for a sleepover! But she’s not quite ready—she’s still searching for something very important. Ages 2 to 5. SRP $9.99.

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas by Clement Clark Moore, illustrated by Jon GoodellThis deluxe edition of the classic Christmas tale features full-color AniMotion windows that appear within the festively trimmed illustrations and add movement and depth to this beloved tale. All ages. SRP $21.99.

Mini Shopaholic: A Novel by Sophie KinsellaBeloved heroine Becky Brandon (née Bloomwood) returns in a hilarious tale of married life, toddlerhood, and the perils of trying to give a fabulous surprise party-on a budget! Becky Brandon thought motherhood would be a breeze and that having a daughter was a dream come true: a shopping friend for life! But it’s trickier than she thought. Two-year-old Minnie has a quite different approach to shopping. Adult. SRP $28.95.

Earth (The Book): A Visitor’s Guide to the Human Race by Jon StewartFrom Daily Show anchor Jon Stewart comes this humorous and irreverent look at our species. Where do we come from? Who created us? Why are we here? These questions have puzzled us since the dawn of time, but when it became apparent to Jon Stewart and the writers of The Daily Show that the world was about to end, they embarked on a massive mission to write a book that summed up the human race: What we

looked like; what we accomplished; our achievements in society, government, religion, science and culture—all in a tome of approximately 256 pages with lots of color photos, graphs and charts. Adult. SRP $31.99.

There’s No Such Thing As a Chanukah Bush, Sandy Goldstein by Susan Sussman, illustrated by Charles RobinsonIn this classic Chanukah story, a wise, understanding grandfather helps Robin, a Jewish child, cope with Christmas; not an easy task when even Sandy, who is also Jewish, is allowed to have a Christmas tree and Robin can’t have one. Ages 9 to 12. SRP $9.95.

21November/December 2010

We are infatuated with motherhood...and, at the same time, horrified by it.

When I woke up, they were both downstairs, barely able to contain their glee. “I went to 7-Eleven, mom,” said my son, hopping up and down. “By myself!”

Confused, I looked at my husband. “What do you mean?” I asked.Then, the story emerged. My husband sent him to 7-Eleven for some milk.

He had given him his cell phone and told him to call when he got there. He’d walked the two blocks, crossed one major street, called his dad to report on his progress and returned home with the milk.

At first, I was proud. But quickly, I got mad. Not in front of my son, but later, at my husband. He wasn’t ready for that, I argued. What would he have done if the regular homeless man who camps out at the front door had bothered him? What if he was too distracted to pay attention to all the cars? My husband shrugged. “He’s ready,” he said. “He can do it. He did it.”

My husband was right, of course. And in retrospect, I may have been madder that I hadn’t been the one to set the rules. But what happened that day was the beginning of a very tricky process: letting the strings loose on my son’s freedom. This is tricky, not only because it’s so hard to gauge the safety of the world around him in a world where the news makes us feel like we live in one big horror show, but also because—like so many other stages of parenting—there are no rules and plenty of judgment from other parents.

When my son was eight, I let him walk to a friend’s house alone. The house was two blocks away—no lights, no major intersections. And still, the mom of his friend, an otherwise laid-back type, was shocked. It was her reaction, more than anything else, more even than my own instincts, that destroyed my newfound confidence in my son. I kept him close for many months after, too scared to examine the layers behind my fear.

Finally, when he turned nine last spring, I let him go again. I allowed him to walk the same two blocks to the local park where he liked to play soccer

By Cori Howard

Learning to Let Go of Your KidsIt was around seven-thirty on a weekend morning when I heard the front door

open and close. Snuggled in tight beside my little girl, I thought for a moment

how odd it was that my nine-year-old son and my husband were going out so

early. I wondered, briefly, where they were going and promptly fell back asleep.

with a group of adults. He’d been playing with them every Sunday morning for months and we knew them by now, trusted them. We were astonished they would let a kid play with them, but we were also happy that they were so kind and welcoming.

If he didn’t come back from the park after an hour, I would wander over there to get him. He was always fine. He was earning his freedom with his competence and maturity. It was a beautiful thing to watch.

But then, my husband sent him to 7-Eleven and I suddenly wondered if we’d gone too far, like the woman in New York who let her nine-year-old son ride the subway alone to school, raising a major ruckus from coast to coast for months. Now, walking two blocks on the west side of Vancouver and riding the subway in Manhattan are two very different things. But behind them is the same issue: what is an acceptable level of freedom for a boy who is just starting to make his own way in the world?

I don’t know the answer. Sorry to disappoint. Neither do I know what the next step should be. Here’s what I do know: I need to figure it out, quick. Like a puppy, he’s jumping up and down at the door, testing how far he can go, how strong he is, how high he can jump. If I don’t let the leash out, it will break.

I want to honour his age and his abilities. Be damned with all the dirty looks and judgment. My husband and I are the only ones who really know our son and what he can do. It’s up to us, together, to set the rules and let him go. Wish us luck.

Cori Howard is an award-winning journalist and founder of The Momoir Project, a series of writing classes and workshops for moms interested in turning their personal journeys with motherhood into stories. www.themomoirproject.com

parenting

22 WestCoastFamilies.com

23November/December 2010

winter fun for the whole family!

Heritage ChristmasBurnaby Village Museum | November 27-January 2, various hoursEnjoy the boughs, red bows and all the other old-fashioned ornaments and decorations throughout the village and farmhouse. The season features traditional entertainment, demonstrations, hands-on activities and exhibits from the early 1900s. The daily craft is popular with children, as is a chat with Father Christmas. Complete each visit with a whirl on the C.W. Parker Carousel.604.294.4547 | burnabyvillagemuseum.ca

North Pole PartiesImagine Children’s Museum, Everett, WashingtonNovember 27, December 11-12, December 19-20There’s chillin’ good fun for everyone at these family events just ‘cross the border. Visit Kringle Town on November 27, the Gingerbread Village on December 11 and 12, Polar City on December 20, and the special Night of the Elves Kids Night Out on December 19. See website for details.425.258.1006 | imaginecm.org

Christmas Tree FarmAldor Acres | Dec. 1-19, weekdays noon-4pm, weekends 9am-4pmWalk through the acres of land, pick and cut your Christmas tree then relax by the fire, play with the animals and sip hot chocolate! Choose from Douglas, Grand or Fraser Fir, and Spruce trees starting at $7/foot (includes HST).604.888.4483| aldoracres.com

‘Tis for Kids!Granville Island Kids Market | December 4-24, various times‘Tis the season for daily visits with Santa—except on December 12th, 19th, and 22nd, when you can enjoy magic shows with Elfina! Get into the spirit of giving, and bring an unwrapped gift for the Elizabeth Fry Society before December 20.kidsmarket.ca

Rogers Santa Clause ParadeGeorgia and Howe Streets | December 5, 1pmThe parade starts at Broughton and Georgia streets, moves along Georgia and turns down Howe, ending at the corner of Howe and Davie. Line up anywhere along the designated parade route to see decorated floats, performers and entertainers and all the festive fanfare you can imagine.rogerssantaclauseparade.com

See ad in this issue.

Passport to ChristmasVarious locations in Abbotsford | November 1-December 24This self-guided tour around Abbotsford takes you on a Christmas adventure where you come across unique stocking stuffers, gourmet food items, home décor and Christmas greenery. There are many events for families taking places at the participating locations during the season. passporttochristmas.ca

Rudolph Sightings in VancouverAtop Harbour Centre | November 1-December 26There is no better place to catch a glimpse of Santa and his reindeer than from this 360-degree view. Glass elevators whisk you 130 metres skyward to the Observation Deck in only 40 seconds. Complimentary guided tours & children’s activities.vancouverlookout.com

Free Community SkateCanlan Burnaby 8 Rinks | November 13, 4pm-6pmCome out for the annual free skate put on by MADD. Free refreshments will be offered. Skate rental not included.madd.ca

WinterfestCanlan Burnaby 8 Rinks | November 19-December 31Come out to the Winterfest Holiday Rink and enjoy live Christmas trees, festive lights, decorations and traditional holiday season music. Public and private skates available. Adults $6.50; Children (3-15 years) $5.50. See website for details and schedule.icesports.com/burnaby8rinks

Bright Nights at Stanley ParkStanley Park | November 26-January 2, 3pm-10pm More than two million twinkling lights transform the forest, the train and children’s farmyard areas in the middle of the city’s wondrous Stanley Park. Bright Nights is enhanced by entertainment, dozens of delightful animated displays and more—carrying on the tradition started with the first Christmas Train over thirty years ago. Admission includes a ride on the train and a visit to the children’s farmyard. Farmyard open 3pm to 9pm. Adult $9; Child $6.604.257.8531 | vancouver.ca

Peak of ChristmasGrouse Mountain | November 27-December 24, various timesVisit Santa’s Workshop and meet reindeer, or take a sleigh ride through the mystical alpine forest. Skate on the 8,000-square-foot mountaintop Ice Skating Pond. All complimentary with your Grouse Mountain Admission, Annual Membership, Winter Pass, or Lift Ticket.grousemountain.com

Christmas in the CountryKilby Historic Site | November 27-28Come to Kilby for a traditional Christmas Ham dinner for lunch in the Harrison River Restaurant. There will be several Christmas craft activities, as well as a visit from Father Christmas. Do some Christmas shopping in the Gift Shop! Check website for prices and times.kilby.ca

The Gingerbread Wood at VanDusen Botanical Garden’s

Festival of Lights. Photo by Raymond Chan, Photomedia.

24 WestCoastFamilies.com

winter fun listings

The Polar Express 4-D ExperienceVancouver Aquarium | Dates TBDThis cinematic adventures combines the high-definition excitement of a 3-D film with amazing sensory effects. Feel the rumble of the train and the magical falling snow, and even smell the hot chocolate!604.659.3474 | visitvanaqua.org

The Christmas CarnivalCoal Harbour Community Centre | December 4, 10am-noonJourney with your children to meet Santa through a magical winter wonderland where holiday games and Christmas crafts await each stop along the way. Pre-registration is recommended, as space is limited. Parent participation is required. $6 Child (appropriate for ages 2-6 years).604.718.8222 | coalharbourcc.ca

Festival of TreesFour Seasons Hotel Vancouver | November 24-January 5The Festival of Trees is a fundraising event that has become a holiday “must-see” tradition in Vancouver for thousands of people as the hotel lobby becomes transformed into a forest of beautifully decorated trees to raise funds for BC Children’s Hospital. Open to the public, who are invited to vote for their favourite tree.bcchf.ca

Christmas in Williams ParkWilliams Park, Langley December 6-16 (drive thru), 6pm-9pmDecember 17-18 (walk thru), 6pm-9pmDuring the Drive Through evenings, you can view the captivating lights, decorations and displays from the comfort of your own vehicle set amongst the natural beauty of the park’s greenery and walkways. The Walk and Celebrate evenings feature hay and pony rides, local entertainment, face painting, refreshments, and a visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus.604.534.3211 | tol.bc.ca/ciwp

Festival of LightsVanDusen Botanical GardenDec. 10 -Jan. 2, 4:30pm-9pm every evening except Christmas Day Experience 1.4 million twinkling lights, including the Dancing Lights on Livingstone Gingerbread Wood and Candy Cane Lane. Up in the Heather Garden, be sure to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation by lighting a candle at the Candle Shrine.vandusengarden.org

Canyon LightsCapilano Suspension Bridge | December 3–January 2, 5pm–9pmCanyon Lights features over 250,000 twinkling lights throughout the park. Enjoy the Christmas Band performing nightly and learn to make glass icicle ornaments. Adults $15; Children (6-12) $5; Family (two adults/two children) $35.604.985.7474 | capbridge.com

Christmas TrainBear Creek Park | December 3-January 2, 10am-4pmRide the train through the Christmas forest display and Santa’s Golden Reindeer tunnel exhibit. Meet Santa and have your picture taken with him. Kids will receive a reindeer antler headband craft kit. Adults $7; Children $6.604.501.1232 | bctrains.com

Breakfast with SantaLangley Evangelical Free Church, 20719-48 Ave., Langley December 4, 9am-10:30am & 11am-12:30pmThis annual event put on by, and in support of, the Langley Child Development Centre offers families with special needs children, as well as the entire community, a safe and supportive environment to enjoy a typical seasonal event. Enjoy pancakes and treats, and have your photo taken with Santa! $5 per person or $17.50 per family (family price includes up to 5 people). Pre-registration info and other details online.langleycdc.com

Hyack Santa Claus Parade of LightsNew Westminster | December 4, 4pm From bands playing festive music, to floats featuring reindeer, elves, candy canes and toys, it’s a swirl of sound, colour and lights that brings a tap to the toes and a twinkle to the eyes. The event involves families in a fun, free activity that engages the community in a civic celebration. 604.522.6894 | hyack.bc.ca

25November/December 2010

winter fun listings

Pioneer ChristmasSurrey Museum | December 11, 1pm-3pmExplore Christmas customs from pioneer days. Do holiday crafts with your family. View a display of vintage Christmas cards. Watch short holiday films, sip some Christmas punch and nibble on treats. Please bring a donation for the Surrey Food Bank.604.592.6956 | surrey.ca

Winter Ice PalaceCloverdale Arena | December 18-January 2The arena will be transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with an old-fashioned frozen pond. Admission $4. Skate and helmet rentals not included.recreation.surrey.ca

Breakfast with SantaCanada Place | December 18-19The always popular and very festive “Breakfast with Santa” entertains guests of all ages. This magical experience includes a visit with Santa, a superb buffet-style breakfast and the best in children’s entertainment. Tickets sell out early, so make a date with Santa today!604.775.7200 | christmas.canadaplace.ca

Twelve Days of ChristmasVancouver Maritime MuseumDecember 18-January 2, 10am-5pm, Sundays noon-5pmCelebrate the season with learning and sharing, and help provide safe harbour for those in need. With a non-perishable food bank donation, children under 10 receive free admission (maximum of two free children when accompanied by a paid adult). During Twelve Days of Christmas, the museum features a break from the busy holidays with self-guided crafts for kids and festive decorations.604.257.8300 | vancouvermaritimemuseum.com

Breakfast with SantaKrause Berry Farm | December 19, 11am–2pmEnjoy a pancake breakfast, then visit with Santa and receive a candy cane. Drop your letter to Santa in the big red post box for “berry” fast delivery to the North Pole! All proceeds go to Breast Cancer Research.604.856.5757 | krauseberryfarms.com A Dylan Thomas Christmas: A Child’s Christmas in WalesRyerson United Church | December 17, 8pm & December 19, 3pmA Dylan Thomas Christmas features the famous Welsh poet’s story “A Child’s Christmas in Wales” read by Bard-on-the-Beach actor Russell Roberts and illustrated with all new Christmas carols and songs chosen by Jon Washburn.604.738.6822 | vancouverchamberchoir.com

Winter SolsticeWest End & Coal Harbour Community CentresDecember 21, 6pm-10pmWorldwide, interpretation of this event has varied from culture to culture, but most cultures have held recognition of rebirth involving holidays, festivals, gatherings, rituals, or other celebrations. How cultures interpret the solstice is varied, some people value the range of December celebrations, because it is evidence of a diversity of belief within our common humanity. Come and celebrate with lanterns, music, dance and ice skating at this free event.604.257.8333 | westendcc.ca | coalharbourcc.ca

Christmas lights on Capilano Suspension Bridge. Photo courtesy of Jill Batie.

26 WestCoastFamilies.com

Build with Bloco!Canadian-made Bloco is an innovative assembly/construction system that utilizes originally shaped and colourful high density foam pieces, which are linked together with plastic connectors. Kids can link Bloco pieces together and rotate them at any angle. They can build the illustrated designs from detailed step-by-step instructions or create “cross-species” by combining pieces from each set or from various models/sets. Ages 4+. Prices vary. www.blocotoys.com

To Be or Not to BeLooking for a cool gift for your blossoming young thespian? Place des Arts joins forces with Bard on the Beach to present an unforgettable theatrical experience. Professional actors from Bard will lead middle-school youth, grades 6 to 8, on a creative journey through an abridged version of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Students will gain a greater appreciation for the Bard’s stories and use of language, while learning more about acting, voice and movement for the stage. The workshop runs for two weeks at Place des Arts over Spring Break, March 21 to April 1, 9am to noon. Family and friends can join in the fun at a final presentation on Sunday, April 3. $330. www.placedesarts.ca

Sleep Sheep for Little SleepersCloud B’s plush pillows are designed to transform into furry and huggable stuffed toys. Each pillow comes with a bamboo pillowcase, and a percentage of all sales from the Sleep Sheep & Friends line is donated to Children’s Wish Foundation. Available as sheep, turtles, ladybugs, polar bear cubs and more. Ages 3+. SRP $31.99. At local retailers and online at www.dogreeonline.com.

Custom gifts from Granville IslandThe artists and artisans of Granville Island can create virtually any form of customizable gift, from jewellery, leather goods and accessories to art, eyewear and even brooms! Some custom work can take up to six to eight weeks, so early orders are recommended. Prices vary. www.granvilleisland.com/custom-made

Gift the Gift of MusicTom Lee Music offers both group and private lessons in a wide range of instruments and styles.Blues guitar hound? Check! Classical violin? Check! Prices vary. See website for full offering. www.tomleemusic.ca

Chronicles of the Mind from Griddly GamesChronicles of the Mind is the new award-winning party game from Richmond-based Griddly Games that gets everyone talking! Play it as a game or as an icebreaker activity. Simply pick up a card from the deck of 119 storytelling topics and tell a story based on the topic. You can get your friends to guess whether the story was true or false with their voting card. Win by fooling your friends, or choose any of the four ways to play! Ages 10+. SRP $12.99 at Granville Island Toy Company and BC Playthings. www.griddlygames.com

Alphabet PhotographyThis innovative Canadian company offers customizable word art through the use of architectural and landscape photography. Choose a general word like NOEL or the first or last name of someone you love, and then choose the image representations of the letters that make up that word. A personalized custom frame with three to nine letters is $139.95, plus $30 shipping. Allow 3-4 business days for shipping across Canada. www.alphabetphotography.ca

holiday gift guide

Toys & Games

Custom & Experiential

27November/December 2010

Little Life Daysack from Active BabyThis adorable animal daysack adds a touch of fun to any day out. It holds a surprising amount of stuff and the removable safety rein gives crucial parental control when you are out and about. Also has a weatherproof hood that stows away in a top pocket; open it out and your child can complete the transformation from little person to ladybird, turtle, cow or bee with maximum effect! Intended for children six months to four years. British and European Safety Standard Approved. SRP $43.99. activebaby.ca

Koby Jewellery from TerraCycleTerraCycle makes eco-friendly products almost entirely out of non-recyclable waste items collected from the companies that make the products, as well as local collection brigades across the country. Currently they have collected almost two billion items that would have otherwise ended up in landfills. From boombox speakers to plant food, the range of products is huge. And now, TerraCycle has introduced a line of jewellery from Canadian jeweller Arthur Koby made from 100% recycled silver. For girls and women of all ages. SRP $15.99-$29.99. www.dwellsmart.com

Coco & TiniThis new Vancouver-based line of 100% natural-sourced hair and bath products is free of sulfates, parabens, propylene glycol, artificial preservatives and fragrances. Includes body wash, bubble bath, detangler and shampoo. Nut-free ingredients. Newborn and baby-friendly. $15.95-$19.50. www.cocoandtini.com

Dress Up with Peekaboo Beans!Award-winning Vancouver-based kid’s playwear line Peekaboo Beans Autumn/Winter 2010 collection “When I Grow Up” celebrates what life looks like through the eyes of children. With detachable s leeves for versatility, your “little man” can wear the Back in Town Coat ($69) as a jacket or a playful vest. Your “little missus” will be all elegance in ruffles and bows at holiday parties in her Striving dress ($49), while the lined French terry Only a Girl Coat ($85) will keep her stylishly warm with an A-line shape to fit over her party dresses and skirts. www.peekaboobeans.com

Lilikiks for Active GirlsThis Vancouver-based clothing line features functional, stylish and age-appropriate active wear that girls can wear both on and off the field. Fabrics are fast-drying, anti-bacterial, odour-resistant, non-toxic, breathable, and even biodegradable! Check out the full collection online at www.lilikiks.com.

holiday gift guide

Clothing & Accessories

28 WestCoastFamilies.com

holiday gift guide

Trudeau for the HomeCanadian company Trudeau produces a huge range of housewares at every price range. We like this electric 3-in-1 fondue set in stainless steel. No more worries about burning the cheese or spilling oil! SRP $129.99 at local retailers. www.trudeacorp.com

Writing the Momoir WayThinking about chronicling your journey through motherhood? The Momoir Workbook by Cori Howard is an e-book that includes tips on how to get started writing your memoirs about motherhood and instruction in the basics of good memoir writing. Designed for women who have never written before, as well as for professional writers, the workbook will help you build stories and confidence. Each chapter includes a brief lesson and writing exercise, and by the end of the workbook, you will have written dozens of short stories, as well as one long personal essay. SRP $24.95. www.themomoirproject.com

A Blinged-Out FlameSo the price tag on this is a little crazy, but, really, could you find a better ice-breaker? From Canadian-based Napoleon Fireplaces comes this limited–edition Swarovski-decked unit made with authentic “Crystallized” Swarovski Elements that will put all other bling to shame. $12,000. www.napoleonfireplaces.com

For Arnold Palmer-wannabesMy Mini Golf is entertaining and rewarding for golfers and non-golfers of any age. The game is fun for the whole family and can be played both indoors or outdoors, and on any smooth surface. $169.95-$299.95. www.startingtimegolf.com

Adults Only!

29November/December 2010

30 WestCoastFamilies.com

holiday gift guide

A Tin Full of KindnessEach year Breakfast Clubs of Canada teams up with the National Bank and, as part of their holiday campaign, they offer a small $5 gift, all proceeds of which go towards supporting school breakfast programs across the country. This year the gift is a charming limited edition cookie tin filled with cranberry almond shortbread cookies—made from a recipe specially devised for BCC by Anne Desjardins. Tins will be available at all National Bank branches from November 22 to December 31. www.breakfastclubscanada.org

A Sweet GiftChocolate is always welcome, but local, a r t i san choco la te takes the cake—or, in this case, the tea. Schokolade’s chocolate high tea experience make a perfect experience for that hard-to-please lady on your list, and the chocolate Santas are perfect for her kids. Chocolate high tea, $26.95; Chocolate Santas $15.95-$25.95. www.schokoladecafe.com

A Cuppa DavidsTeaCanadian tea company DavidsTea produces premium teas in loose leaf format, including organic white teas from Sri Lanka, Golden Pu-erh, and many more. Available online or at their stores in Surrey and Vancouver. Don’t miss their tea-filled “chocolate box” for the ultimate tea lover. Prices vary. www.davidstea.com

Food & Drink

31November/December 2010

32 WestCoastFamilies.com

wcf feature

‘m not alone in my musings. Many parents ponder the same questions. In fact, there are several websites and blogs dedicated to encouraging others to curb their consumerism over the holiday season. For most families a

drastic change such as completely cutting out holiday shopping isn’t practical or even desired. But small changes, especially ones that include the children, can be powerful.

One way you can shop less is to make gifts instead of purchasing them. Many families have found deep satisfaction in creating homemade gifts to share with friends and family. The kids love to take part in the creation and they always feel proud to give away what they’ve helped to make. As well, people are especially touched when they receive a handmade gift.

Alternatively, you may want to consider some of the charitable organizations that allow you to purchase practical items for those in need throughout the world. These items range from soccer balls to chickens, goats, and water purifiers. These charitable gifts are purchased in the name of your friends and family. Most organizations even send a card or an email to let the recipient know of the gift sent in their honour. The benefits of this method of gifting are threefold: you get to help others (and that’s always nice); it’s a wonderful opportunity to teach your kids about the difficult reality many other children and adults face, and; finally, it’s fun for the kids to imagine people receiving chickens, goats, or ducks as holiday gifts.

Before this year is through, I’ll probably find myself asking someone a question about their holiday shopping—old habits die hard. But if I’ve taken some small steps to rein in my holiday shopping, I’ll know I’m headed in the right direction.

I

By Debbie Bowman

Shopping For Change Over the HolidaysWe’ve all heard it. We may have even asked it—that inevitable question spoken during the holiday season:

“Have you finished your holiday shopping yet?” For the most part, this question and its many variations are

equal to comments on the weather—a harmless filler when you can’t think of anything better to talk about.

Nevertheless, it made me wonder—is too much of my attention devoted to shopping during the holidays?

And what am I teaching my kids when they see so much adult focus directed toward consumerism?

Here is a list of some organizations you may want to consider for in-name charitable donations:

Just Give allows you to purchase gift cards in a variety of denominations. The recipients then visit the Just Give website where they chose the charity they want to support. www.justgive.org/give-now/gift-cards/index.jsp

Evergreen is a Canadian-based organization where you can plant a tree in someone’s name. www.evergreen.ca/en/donate/gift-of-nature.sn

Right to Play is an organization devoted to providing play based items to impoverished children.www.righttoplay.com/International/get-involved/Pages/Donate.aspx

The following organizations have holiday gift catalogues you can peruse with the kids:

Unicef | www.shopunicef.ca

World Vision | donate.worldvision.org

Samaritan’s Purse | www.samaritanspurse.org

Heifer International | www.heifer.org

Alternative Gifts International | www.altgifts.org

Homemade gift ideas your kids can help createCookies in a jar. Get large, wide-mouth mason jars and layer them with all the dry ingredients necessary to make yummy cookies. Kids like to help by scooping the ingredients into the jars. When done, write up the recipe so the recipient can finish baking the cookies at home. Kids like to decorate the jars, too. Google the words “cookies in a jar” and many recipes will pop up.

Beeswax candles. Rolls of beeswax can be purchased at most craft stores. The kids can help roll the sheets around the wicks and then package them in pairs for gifts.

Homemade spice mix for grilling. Just like the cookies in a jar, the kids can help mix together grilling spices and put the finished spice mix in decorated jars. This is a great gift for the BBQ master you know. There are several recipes on the internet, just Google “homemade spice mix for grilling.”

Coupons. Kids can help write up their own coupons for service-oriented gifts. For example, coupons can be for breakfast in bed, help around the house, dog walking, or washing the car.

Personalized music CDs. Kids can help create music CDs filled with their favourite music or the music they think the recipients may like best.

Salt dough holiday ornaments. Kids can make and paint hanging ornaments to give as gifts. For a simple recipe, visit frugal.families.com/blog/salt-dough-ornaments.

Personalized Calendars. Kids love to showcase their artwork and what better way than to have their art sent to relatives all over the world. Art can be scanned into .jpeg files and then made into calendars. Kids get a kick out of seeing their art displayed in such a prominent and professional fashion, and relatives will enjoy showing off the budding artists in the family. Visit www.lulu.com/s1/calendars_photo/r/studioc to get started.

33November/December 2010

travel

t was in the waning weeks of the summer of 2007 when the Tremblay family untied the lines, waved goodbye and headed out for the adventure of a lifetime. Nerves, excitement and fear filled the cockpit of Orca 3, a 46-foot

sailboat, as she motored under the Burrard Street Bridge. After a full year of preparing the boat for this adventure, they wondered if she would hold up. Or would their dream quickly turn into a nightmare?

But true to plan, after sailing for a few weeks in the Gulf Islands, Orca 3 turned her bow south and headed for Crescent City, California. “The only time I ever got scared was when we first left Port Angeles and headed out to sea,” recalls Dionne. “It wasn’t the weather or the ocean; it was a matter of not knowing what lay ahead.”

The Tremblay family always knew they wanted to explore distant shores; the trip had been in the works for years. “I was always getting our boat ready,” explains Steve—who just happens to be a marine mechanic with his own company called Orca 3 Marine. “Every year, I said ‘we’re leaving in 10 years from now, let’s start planning.’ Until one day Dionne told me to pick a firm date. So I did. I knew 2007 was the year to go.”

Knowing the family would be leaving Vancouver for a few years, Dionne made sure the kids would be home schooled. And while initially the family struggled to find the right balance between learning and experiencing, they soon figured out how to work together. Classes took place at the kitchen table, gazing into the ocean and seeing wildlife up close and in foreign lands. They learnt from textbooks and from everyday life. “I liked counting the money in different currencies,” states Emma, who was seven when the family left. In fact, one lesson they learnt from Steve—writing down longitude and latitude while sailing and understanding what it meant—helped Maya upon her return. “I was sitting in social studies and the teacher went to teach us about longitude and latitude, and I thought ‘dude, I so know this.’”

Sometimes, the classes included children from other boats. “There were lots of other family boats out there,” explains Dionne. “Kids of all nationalities and all ages, including one lady who was very pregnant.” Orca 3 spent a great deal of time “buddy boating” with another pair of boats; one from Canada and one from the States—both sailing with kids of all ages. In fact, it was at sea where a 13-year-old Kyle met his first girlfriend. The two boats sailed on and off together for over seven months. The courtship took place conversing over the VHF radio while at sea; and traipsing around beaches, hiking mountains and learning about new cultures while at anchor. Most certainly an interesting way to experience first love.

Reminiscing about their time together, the Tremblays are quick to chatter about the places they visited. They swam with sting rays in Tahiti, humpback whales in Tonga and wild dolphins in Hawaii. They toured a black pearl farm in the Tuomotos, and visited churches and museums where ever they went. They even witnessed the “the Olympics of dance competitions” while in Tahiti. “It’s asking too much to pick a favourite place,” says Maya. “They were all so good. The place before may seem like less only because the next place we visited was also magical.”

For Steve, he also recalls moments that were less magical. “All of the islands in the South Pacific are littered with garbage.” He relates walking for miles along beaches and having to tip-toe through trash, including refrigerators, diapers, lighters and lots of plastic. “It’s sad to see it all there,” he laments. “It’s obvious the locals just can’t keep up with it all.”

I

By Heather Lochner

Adventures of Orca 3After thirty-six years of living aboard a boat and countless sailing trips to the Gulf

Islands and Desolation Sound, what is a sailor going to do? Head out to sea, of

course! And that is exactly what Steve Tremblay did. Except, this salty dog didn’t

go alone. He brought along his wife Dionne, son Kyle (age 12), and daughters

Maya (age 10) and Emma (age seven).

A precious memory the entire family cherishes occurred near the beginning of the trip as they were sailing in Mexico. The Tremblays befriended a local family in Magdalena Bay. The kids played together, Maya visited their home, and the older children from the Mexican family visited Orca 3. It was the stark contrast in living conditions, and the overwhelming generosity, that taught the children of Orca 3 a valuable lesson. “It shocks you when you first see how poor people are,” explains Maya. “You see a pile of billboards and then you realize this is their house. When you meet them, you see how nice they are, and they want to share with you what little they have.”

However, the real Tremblay experience came while at sea. Stories are told that include arguing, fixing things and flying fish smacking Kyle in face. Squeals of laughter regularly interrupt their tales. And really, who can be surprised? Five people together on a 46-foot boat with no land in site for weeks on end—that’s pure fodder for a life-altering family experience. How many families can brag about working together to catch an 8-foot marlin in the middle of the Pacific Ocean? Or playing hangman as a family against another family boat while sailing off the New Zealand coastline? “How can I pick a favourite family memory?” asks Dionne. “They are so many of them.”

Passages (long periods of time at sea) took on a certain pattern. At night, two members of the family would “sit watch” (stay awake to sail the boat) together, in four hour shifts. By day, the routine was less structured. Someone might be sailing, while someone else slept. Another person could be reading, cooking, fishing or listening to music. But one thing remained consistent. “We were always teasing each other,” giggles Emma.

And while this family did indeed visit exotic beaches and new cultures; the memories are more than just a favourite beach or interesting museum. They are about the family and how they grew closer to one another. “You could say we sort of got closer,” laughs Maya. Kyle quickly adds, “We know what each other’s angry faces look like and we know how to push each other’s buttons even better.”

Now back, the children have matured and have adapted back into regular life. Kyle and Maya, who previously had never been to high school, are both on the honour roll. Emma is back at her old elementary school, but she laments “I liked Morea the best. It is so much more interesting that Canada or the United States.” The family is slowly settling back into life, but as Maya puts it, “the memories never get old.” Cruising is a lifestyle many people dream about, but, as the Tremblay family demonstrated, it can also be a reality.

34 WestCoastFamilies.com

e-mail: Vancouver@madsciencebc.com • www.madscience.org/vancouver

Ask About our Exciting:• Birthday Parties • Events• School Programs • Pre-School Programs• Camps • In-Class field trips and more…Looking to spark your Children’s Imagination? Give Mad Science a Call! 604-591-9115

We bring FUN science to you!We bring FUN science to you!Hands On and Minds On, Mad Science is the Leading Fun Science Provider for Kids.

/vancouverver/vanc

more…m reion?ion?

91151591

he h

winter party guide

Fun4kidz Richmond604.279.5439 | fun4kidz.ca

Go Bananas! Langley | 604.514.7529North Vancouver | 604.982.0576Richmond | 604.204.0576gobananasplaycenter.com

The Adventure Zone Vancouver604.608.6699 | theadventurezone.ca

Greater Vancouver ZooLangley604.856.6825 | gvzoo.com

Gymboree Play and Music Multiple locationsgymboreeclasses.com Honeyland Canada—Dr. Bee Birthdays Pitt Meadows604.460.8889 | honeylandcanada.com

HR MacMillan Space Centre Vancouver604.738.7827 hrmacmillanspacecentre.com

Jump! Gymnastics Inc Vancouver604.568.9690 | jumpgymnastics.ca

Jump Start Music & Movement Coquitlam604.777.7179 jumpstartmusicandmovement.com

CirKids Vancouver604.252.3679 | cirkids.org

City Centre Aquatic Complex Coquitlam604.927.6999 | coquitlam.ca

Cliffhanger Coquitlam | 604.526.2402Vancouver | 604.874.2400Richmond | 604.276.0012cliffhangerclimbing.com

Collage Collage Vancouver604.569.1929 | collagecollage.ca

Crankpots Ceramic Studio Vancouver604.871.0302 | crankpots.net

Crash Crawly’s Coquitlam604.526.1551 | crash-crawlys.com

Creativ Music Centre North Vancouver604.929.4040 | creativ.ca

Delta Gymnastics Delta604.943.0460 | deltagymnastics.com

Flip City Langley604.533.3362 | flipcitygym.com

Kids Market 604.689.8447 | kidsmarket.ca

Koko’s Activity Centre Port Moody604.469.3357 | kokos.ca

Krause Berry Farms Langley604.856.5757 | krauseberryfarms.com

Laser Dome North Vancouver604.985.6033 | laserdome.net

Making Memories with Scrapbooking Burnaby604.299.3601 makingmemorieswithscrapbooking.com

Maplewood Farms North Vancouver604.929.5610 | maplewoodfarm.bc.ca

Marpole-Oakridge Community Centre Vancouver604.257.8180 | marpoleoakridge.org

McDonald’s Restaurants Multiple locations mcdonalds.ca

Minoru Aquatic Centre Richmond604.718.8020 | richmond.ca

My Gym Children’s Fitness Centre Maple Ridge604.465.1329

See ad in this issue.

PARTY VENUES

Bella Ceramica Studio West Vancouver604.925.3115 | bellaceramicastudio.com

Burnaby Village Museum & Carousel Burnaby604.293.6501 burnabyvillagemuseum.ca

Canlan SportsMultiple locations604.291.0626 | icesports.com

Castle Fun Park Abbotsford604.850.0411 | castlefunpark.com

Chuck E Cheese’s Langley604.534.9966 | chuckecheese.com

35November/December 2010

We o�er children's birthday party loot bags, wedding favors for kids and that perfect goody bag for any children's festival, company picnic or corporate event.

Call: 604.888.6772or visit: www.lovethoselootbags.com

Unique, fun-filled, affordable loot bagsthat both kids and parents will love!

Love Those Loot Bags.pdf 10/10/08 11:10:15 AM

Why hire a clown when you can hire a ZOX?Playful skits, theatrical storytelling, animal puppet characters

& interactive guitar sing-along songs.

Zox is perfect for children’s birthday & Christmas parties too!

David Cooper (604) 710-4234 | zoxoftheforest.com

Zox of the Forest

Zox of the Forest:Layout 1 9/4/07 9:26 PM Page 1

winter party guide

Omega Gymnastics Academy Coquitlam604.464.1555 | omegagymnastics.com

Phoenix Gymnastics Club Vancouver604.737.7693

Planet LazerLangley | 604.514.2282New Westminster | 604.515.4244Richmond | 604.448.9999planetlazer.net

Play Paradise Port Moodyplayparadise.ca

Playland Vancouver604-252-3663 | pne.ca

Pony Express Pony Parties Langley & Mobile604.728.9694 | ponyrides.ca

Quantum Gymnastics Centre Maple Ridge604.465.9293 | quantumgym.com

Richmond Go-Kart Track Richmond604.278.6184 | richmondgokarts.com

Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co. Vancouver604.730.0321 rockymountainflatbread.ca

Safeguard Martial Arts Langley604.532.0090 | langleykarate.com

Schokolade Café Vancouver604.253.9411 | schokoladecafe.com

Science World Vancouver604.443.7443 | scienceworld.ca

Splashdown Park Tsawwassen604.943.2251 | splashdownpark.ca

Sugar ‘N SpiceCoquitlam604.469.6018 | sugarnspicecreations.ca

The Arts Connection Richmond604.241.0141 | theartsconnection.ca

The Edge North Vancouver604.984.9080 | edgeclimbing.com

The Great Escape Langley604.533.1432 | thege.ca

The Little Gym Langley604.539.2543 | tlglangleybc.com

The Rock Wall Maple Ridge604.460.0808 | therockwall.com

The Zone Bowling Centre Coquitlam | 604.525.2695Richmond | 604.271.2695 zbowl.com

Urban Chef(Mobile)604.603.0334 | theurbanchef.ca

Vancouver Aquarium Vancouver604.659.3552 | vanaqua.org

Vancouver Maritime Museum Vancouver604.257.8310 vancouvermaritimemuseum.com

Vancouver Police Museum Vancouver604.665.3346 vancouverpolicemuseum.ca

Vertical Reality Surrey604.594.0664 | verticalreality.ca

Watermania Richmond604.448.5353 | richmond.ca

Xcalibur Bowling Surrey604.580.2600 | xcaliburbowling.com

YMCA Multiple locationsvanymca.ca

DECORATIONS & SUPPLIES

All Wrapped Up Party Supplies 604.574.6127 | allwrappedup.ca

Balloonery 604.986.8787

Balloons-R-Fun 604.534.8844

BC Children’s Hospital (Tribute cards) bcchf.ca

BC Playthings604.986.4111 | bcplaythings.com

Bopomo Surrey | 778.294.0711Vancouver | 604.678.1411bopomo.ca

Cakes to Dream On 604.781.5290 | cakestodreamon.com

Cards by Kids 604.987.4187 | cardsbykids.ca

Carmela’s Cakes 604.295.3933 | carmelascakes.com

Fratelli Bakery 604.255.8926 | fratellibakery.com

Fun-in-a-Box Canada 604.782.4345 | funinaboxcanada.com

It’s My Party Shop Ltd 604.931.6040 | itsmypartyshop.ca

36 WestCoastFamilies.com

Onya Bags the plastic bag alternative!From pouch to bag experience

Onya Bags are made from soft, silky, strong parachute materials. They are small, light and conveniently pack into their own pouches, clipping onto your handbags, belts, key rings... with handy carabiners.

winter party guide

Kellie Haines604.681.2329 | kelliehaines.com

Kidz Craftz 604.317.9816 | kidzcraftz.ca

Krafty Kidz 604.476.6676 | krafty-kidz.ca

Lime Girl Home Spa (mobile spa parties) 604.460.1289 | limegirl.ca

Lindsey Long Legs 604.727.7802 | stiltwalking.net

Mad Science 604.591.9115 madscience.org/vancouver

Marla Rosen Custom Parties 778.322.7442 | emotionsbook.com

Mike’s Critters 604.598.3649 | mikescritters.com

Mehndi & More (body art & face painting) 604.812.2048 | mehndiandmore.com

Neale Bacon Ventriloquist 604.525.5089 members.shaw.ca/baconandfriends

Norden the Magician 604.916.9879 | magicshows.ca

Pampered Girlz 604.671.5573 | pamperedgirlz.com

Pamper Your Soul Mobile Spa 604.836.6497| pamperyoursoul.com

Par-T-Perfect Burnaby | 604.987.3365Vancouver/North Vancouver 604.987.3365Coquitlam/Surrey | 604.931.1913Fraser Valley | 604.931.1913par-t-perfect.com

Party Arts and Crafts604.318.1261

Tracycakes Bakery Café Abbotsford | 604.852.1904Fort Langley | 604.888.1984White Rock | 604.541.4668tracycakesonline.com

Turkey’s Party Makers 604.576.1467 | turkeyspartymakers.com

The Village Toy Shop 604.949.0444 | villagetoyshop.ca

ENTERTAINERS & PACKAGES

Abracadabra Magic Productions 604.788.9046 | magicshow2go.com

Absolutely Magical604.803.0887 | forevermagic.com

Anderson Chow Entertainment 604.526.9643 | andersonchow.com

Bell E Buttons The Clown 604.984.4329 | bellebuttons.com Bobs & Lolo778.329.8644 | bobsandlolo.com

Bonkers the Clown 604.576.1842 | gobonkers.ca

Castletop Characters 604.736.0876 | castletopcharacters.com

Corycatures 604.813.3729 | corycatures.com

High Touch-Science Made Fun Parties 778.737.5277 | sciencemadefunbc.net

Jamie Wilson 1.888.661.8969 | vancouverjuggler.com

John Kaplan’s Makin’ Magic 604.521.8804 | welikemagic.com

Jr Rockstars Birthdays 604.924.4499

Joyful Celebrations 604.756.1199 | joyfulcelebrations.ca

Just Imagine 604.222.3523 | dressups.com

Kaboodles Toy Store Granville Island | 604.684.0066West Point Grey | 604.224.5311kaboodlestoystore.ca

Kids Market 604.689.8447 | kidsmarket.ca

Love Those Loot Bags 604.888.6772 | lovethoselootbags.com

Par-T-PerfectBurnaby | 604.987.3365Vancouver/North Vancouver 604.987.3365Coquitlam/Surrey | 604.931.1913Fraser Valley | 604.852.1616par-t-perfect.com

Party Tailors 604.461.1711 | partytailors.com

Perfect Party by Cody 1.877.662.5533 perfectpartybycody.com

Portraits By Anita (Top Model Parties)604.376.6447 | portraitsbyanita.com

Sweets and Treats 778.229.5290 | sweetsandtreats.ca

Tartlets Pastry & Cake Design 604.724.7625 | tartlets.ca

The Balloon Shop 604.684.0959 | theballoonshop.com

The Party Bazaar—Bazaar and Novelty Vancouver | 604.873.5241North Vancouver | 604.980.1443thepartybazaar.com The Party is Ready604.945.5321 | thepartyisready.com

Party Works Interactive 604.599.5541 | partyworks.bc.ca

Peter Rooke’s Fun Magic Shows 604.984.6822

Ray Wong Magic Entertainment604.439.8809 | raywongmagic.com

Ready Teddy Go 604.460.7217 | readyteddygo.ca

Starchild & Co 604.541.0908 | starchild.bc.ca

Shé munchkinmusic.net

Suds N’ Scents Inc 604.859.7837 | sudsandscents.com

Take the Stress off Party Planning 778.227.5597

The Blues Berries 604.816.2684 | thebluesberries.com

The Great Marrdini 604-803-4813 | marrdini.com

The Magic Of Yeeri 604.306.6229 | yeeri.com

The Purple Pirate 604.805.4395 | purplepirate.com

The Ta Daa Lady 604-649-1979 | angelabrown.ca

Vancouver Magic Productions 604.937.7258 | vancouvermagic.com

Will Stroet 778.896.1476 | willmusic.ca

Wobbles the Hip Hop Birthday Clown 604.780.4363 | diannadavid.net

Zox of the Forest 604.710.4234 | zoxoftheforest.com

37November/December 2010

Giving can feel as good as getting

BC Children’s Hospital Foundation’s Celebration Donation Invitations make

giving easy. These donation cards & envelopes to honour your child can be sent

with invitations or provided for guests at your next party to collect donations in lieu of gifts.

Please consider supporting BC Children’s Hospital at your next event.

For more information please contact tributeprogram@bcchf.ca or 604.875.2444.

www.bcchf.ca

38 WestCoastFamilies.com

A Night of OwlsRichmond Nature ParkDecember 5, 7pm-8:30pmGet up close and personal with some of the amazing owls that make Richmond their home. Pre-registration required. This event is for all ages, however, children must be accompanied by an adult. $4/person.604.718.6188 | richmondnatureparksociety.ca

Community Tree DecoratingWest End Community Centre, main lobbyDecember 8, 5pm-7pmMake an ornament to put on the tree and one to take home. There will be hot chocolate, goodies, festive music, and a child-friendly movie playing. This is a free event, however donation to the food bank is appreciated.westendcc.ca

Christmas CarolMatsqui Centennial AuditoriumDecember 9-11, various timesFraser Valley Stage is thrilled to present Charles Dickens’ much loved story “A Christmas Carol” Adults $18; Seniors/Students $15.604.853.4164 | fraservalleystage.com

Winter Whimsy!Vancouver Public Library, West Georgia Street BranchDecember 11, 3pm-3:45pmStories, puppets and crafts for children ages 5 to 8 years. Stay from 4pm to 4:30pm for children ages 3 to 5 years. Both free events.vpl.ca

Holiday MarketCroatian Cultural CentreDecember 12, 10am-6pmA seasonal celebration of food and art. There will be artisan demonstrations, gift raffles and entertainment. Admission by $2 minimum donation.eatlocal.org

Goh Ballet’s The NutcrackerThe Centre in Vancouver for Performing ArtsDecember 16-19, 2pm & 7:30pmChildren and adults alike treasure the Nutcracker, a fairytale ballet. Embark on a fantastical journey through the Land of Snow, Sweets & the Sugar Plum Fairy.gohballet.com

Light Up Your LifeVanDusen Botanical GardenDecember 19, 10:30am-noon or 1:30pm-3pmEnjoy a winter scavenger hunt in the Garden for families with children ages 5 to 10 years, then head inside to make a glow stick-powered lantern. Price: Member Family $15, Non-Member Family $25 (includes admission to the Garden). Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please pre-register (required) by calling 604.718.5898 or email familyprograms@vandusen.org.vandusengarden.org

Body Worlds & The BrainScience WorldOn nowBODY WORLDS & The Brain features over 200 authentic human specimens, including whole-body plastinates, organs and translucent body slices. The exhibition also highlights recent neuroscience findings on brain development, function and disease. This is a one-of-a-kind anatomy and physiology lesson and your chance to see firsthand how lifestyle choices impact your health.www.scienceworld.ca

Kids Night OutDelta Gymnastics, South Delta Recreation CentreNovember 13 & 27, December 11, 7:30pm-10:30pmDrop off your kids (ages 6 years and up) to let them have a night out while you enjoy your evening! A certified instructor will lead games and activities. $15 per child.604.943.0460 | deltagymnastics.com

Crofton House School Winter BazaarCrofton House School, 3200 West 41 Ave. November 20, 10am-4pmFun for the whole family! There will be food, entertainment, a silent auction, games and holiday gift ideas! 604.263.3255 | croftonhouse.ca

Will Stroet CD Release PartyPerformance Works, Granville IslandNovember 21, 2:30pm-3:30pmJoin children’s musician Will Stroet for the launch of his rockin’ new CD Walk and Roll. $10/person, children under 1 year are free.604.727.4413 | willmusic.ca

Lower Mainland Annual Toy & Product FairLangley Events Centre, 7888 – 200 St.November 24, 1pm-8pmBenefiting the Langley Child Development Centre, this is a one-stop Christmas shopping opportunity for all families. Over 30 unique vendors selling quality new toys and products for children of all ages (birth to teen). Child-minding by donation from 2:30pm to 7pm. Get 5”x7” photos (courtesy of Bopomo Pictures), by donation to Langley CDC. There will be hundreds of dollars worth of door prizes. Free admission.langleycdc.com

Disney On Ice Presents: Let’s Celebrate! Pacific Coliseum, November 24-28Abbotsford Entertainment & Sports Centre, December 3-5It’s one colossal party on ice, with all your favourite Disney friends! Check online for hours and ticket prices.disney.go.com | ticketmaster.ca

Lights of HopeSt. Paul’s Hospital, street front, 1081 Burrard St.November 25Watch St Paul’s Hospital street front as it becomes alive with dazzling lights & fireworks at dusk. 604.682.8206 | helpstpauls.com

Dunbar Craft FairDunbar Community CentreNovember 27, 10am-5pmWith over 140 local vendors, this craft fair features handmade crafts ranging from jewellery to woodwork. Admission is $3, children under 12 are free.dunbarcentre.ca

Vancouver Private School ExpoThe Westin Bayshore HotelNovember 28, noon-4pmThis event provides the opportunity to speak with schools, students and parents from Vancouver and the outlying areas on a one-to-one basis, all in one day, at one location. Admission is $10 at the door.ourkids.net

Santa Shuffle & Elf Walk Lumberman’s Arch in Stanley ParkDecember 4, 10amThe 5K Santa Shuffle Fun Run and 1K Elf Walk brings families and friends together and helps The Salvation Army to assist families & individuals in need.604.684.9771 | santashuffle.com

community calendar November/December 2010

Bakers Market#115 – 408 East Kent Ave. SouthSaturdays until December 11, 11am-3pmSupport your local, talented & creative bakers, who love to bake for customers like you! Free Parking and admission. Enter through the back door.bakersmarket.com

York House School Open House York House SchoolNovember 4, 9am-10:30am or 6pm-7:30pm Open House at main campus for Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. November 10, 7pm to 8pm, there will be an Open House at Little School (3274 East Boulevard) for Junior and Senior Kindergarten.604.730.2419 | yorkhouse.ca

100-Mile Harvest BanquetKinVillage Community Centre5430 – 10 Ave, TsawwassenNovember 5, 6:30pmEnjoy a gourmet meal prepared by a local chef. In support of Earthwise’s education programs that teach children and youth about sustainable agriculture, growing food, and making connections to the land and environment. Live entertainment also featured.604.946.9828 | earthwisesociety.bc.ca

Winter Farmers’ MarketEast Parking Lot of Nat Bailey StadiumSaturdays, November 6-April 30, 10am-2pmLocavores can expect to find a vast array of fruits and veggies, meat and seafood, artisan cheeses and prepared food items, as well as hand-made crafts. Dress warm!eatlocal.org

8th Annual Baby & Family FairVancouver Convention & Exhibition CentreNovember 6-7Offering an extensive selection of exhibitors, seminars and hands-on demonstrations on the latest information, innovations, products and services for expecting and families with young children. Be sure to check out the Creative Corner Area, it’s fun for the little ones!baby-fair.com

Family DaySurrey Art GalleryNovember 7, noon-4pmExplore, enjoy and create art together! Construct your dream extreme skate park, bike park or playground out of clay. Invent your own board game or create a family portrait puzzle using paint and pastels. Play games and build jigsaw puzzles with game-masters. Limited seating. Everyone welcome, however, children must be supervised by an adult. Suggested donation: $3 per child.604.551.5566 | surrey.ca

Surrey Remembers 2010Surrey MuseumNovember 11, 9:30am-12:30pmTake part with your family in the Remembrance Day ceremony at the Cenotaph next door to the Surrey Museum. Then come for refreshments, chats with veterans, films, “peaceful” crafts to do with your children, and other activities. Drop-in by donation.604. 592.6956 | surrey.ca

Caillou’s Greatest Skate of AllNovember 13, Bell Performing Arts CentreNovember 14, Centre in Vancouver for Performing ArtsBoth shows @ 1pmA brand new musical adventure inspired by skating, playing hockey and being a kid with endless imagination. Original sing-a-long songs, thrilling rollerblade displays and lots of audience participation in the greatest skate of all!ticketmaster.ca

Want WestCoast Families at YOUR event?Call 604.249.2866 or email admin@westcoastfamilies.com to receive free delivery of our magazines to your family event!

39November/December 2010

Photographed by Gina Spanos | AG Photographywww.anitaginaphotography.com

WCMProfile:Azar Moayeri of Parissa

“Final Reveal” for our Makeover Moms!

Tapping the Power Within

40 WestCoastFamilies.com

WCM profile

hat’s the lowdown on you?I am a chemical engineer—the first female graduate of University of Edinburgh. I started working for Iran’s National Petrochemical

Company after my graduation in 1968 and soon occupied one of the highest positions and was paid the highest salary to a woman. I married in 1969 and had two children. During the Iranian revolution, I was called a “cleaned out” because of my views on the standing of women in the workforce. My position became jeopardized and our stay in Iran dangerous. Therefore, we left in March of 1979 for Athens, Greece, where at that time Iranians required no visa. Subsequently, I applied to come to Canada as a landed immigrant and arrived with very little money in June of 1981.

How did your business come about?Canada was deep in recession in 1981, jobs were scarce in Vancouver and our family of four needed work and money desperately. After a few months of searching for work, it became evident that I either had to move to Alberta or start something together with my husband in Vancouver—where we wanted to remain. We, therefore, started making our first product, Persian Cold Wax, in the kitchen of our home in North Vancouver after we put the kids to bed. We would then go from store to store, and try to sell our wax at the store level by demonstrating how well the product worked. We received much resistance selling hair remover in the winter, when people only wanted to buy gift items and were not at all interested in removing hair! I believe my swiftest income of all time has been my $2,000 gross sales during that December. I knew then that I was going to make it. I was determined to make a new home for my family so that no one would ever want or dream to return “home” and Vancouver would be the only “home.” I also had to show myself that I could start from zero and make it in a country where I knew no one and had no history; otherwise my education would not have been worthwhile.

What are some of your biggest challenges in work? In life?My biggest challenge in life has been balancing family and work. I adore my family and always feel they have been neglected through my work. To this day, I remember the eight weeks I worked alone in Texas on a carbon black project, when my son was only one year old. I used to follow every one year old boy after work, tears rolling from my eyes uncontrollably. I have been fortunate to have a true partner in life who shares everything and believes in equality and respect. I have been blessed to have been loved and respected and helped throughout my marriage.

What would you describe as some of the biggest rewards of your work/family?My biggest work-related reward has been to see my staff grow with the company and my clients appreciate our products. My goal has been my clients’ satisfaction and my fuel/energy to run my staff. My son has been indispensible in the success of the company as he has been at my side at least for the last 15 years. My daughter is a Ph.D student and a university instructor. I could not have been a prouder mother. As much as I regret and feel I have missed a lot as a mother, I must have done something right. I could not have wished for more. Today I am blessed with two gorgeous grandsons. As always, I do not get to see and play with them as much as I would have liked, as I am to this day working at least eight hours or more a day.

Do you manage to take time-out for yourself? If so, what does that entail?Good quality time for me is always spending time with my children and grandchildren. I try to spend one-on-one time with both my daughter and son. I especially enjoy travelling with them for work or pleasure. I love reading and never tire of it.

Any must-haves?My only must-haves are my kids and grandkids. My phone would be next, so that I can stay in touch with them.

Tell us one or two of the most important life lessons you have learned through being a mom/business owner.At my very first interview at the National Petrochemical Company, the interviewer asked me how I would deal with my family and kids when at work or on assignment abroad. I was appalled at the question as a 22-year-old young woman. My answer to him was that was my business the way it was his business to deal with his private and family life. Obviously, I later found out that it does take a toll on you and it is extremely difficult to be the best at both. They both will suffer as you juggle. I definitely am not a super woman and I know that; however, I try and let go of the unnecessary. For example, if I am entertaining, I may not have the best looking flowers or decorations; thing may be done in a hurry, but those are all luxuries that do not hurt anyone. I try to prioritize my life to focus on only what is most meaningful.

Azar Moayeriof Parissa

Photographed by Gina Spanos | AG Photography | www.anitaginaphotography.com

W

41November/December 2010

Handling cases involving custody of and access to children with care since 1982.

“CUSTODY CASE—Handle With Care!”

WILLIAM R. STOREYBARRISTER AND SOLICITOR

(604) 731-5676

Suite 308, 2902 West Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6K 2G8

www.storeylaw.com

Project3:Layout 1 9/12/07 6:28 AM Page 1

wcm feature

e’ve all heard it. That inner monologue that scratches at the back of our chests and inside our heads, reminding us of everything we’ve ever done wrong, didn’t achieve, forgot to do or say, or were just too

plain scared to try. Call it id, call it the subconscious, call it the devil on your shoulder. It’s there and it it’s in for the long haul.

Historically (as in, ancient history) that little voice was a good thing. It gave us a hint when danger was coming, when some different (usually poisonous) was too close, or when the other guy was about to throw his spear. Bully for the human race, we survived our own infancy, and are now thinking, rational adults who can do more damage with a computer than with a club.

Unfortunately, the little voice didn’t adapt so well, and now it screams at us morning, noon and night, trying to keep us from harm’s way—which, after all, shows good intent, but it also prevents us from “maximizing our potential” or “living life to the fullest.”

So what’s a girl to do? We all have dreams we want to achieve, goals we want to accomplish. The answer lies in power—specifically, our own. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not referring to rah-rah girl power. I’m talking about the power that exists within every individual, regardless of age or gender. The word “power” comes from an older Latin word meaning “to be able.” Yes, eventually, power came to mean the ability to effect those around you, but, in the beginning, power referred only to the individual and his personal ability, or personal power.

According to Robert W. Firestone, Ph.D., author of Combating Destructive Thought Processes, “Personal power is based on strength, confidence, and competence that individuals gradually acquire in the course of their development. It is self-assertion, and a natural, healthy striving for love, satisfaction and meaning in one’s interpersonal world.”

According to Ethel S. Person, a well-known psychiatrist and author of Feeling Strong: How Power Issues Affect Our Ability to Direct Our Own Lives, authentic power arises strictly from within, an expression of personal will. It is contingent on our ability to trust our own instincts and hunches.

In other words, it’s time to turn the id to your advantage. How many times have you had an instinct about something, only to ignore it and later find out that you were right all along? The id may be annoying, but it can’t help its own instinctual perceptions, and learning to listen to yourself—in the right way—is the key. But how?

“We aren’t born with it,” says Hara Estroff Marano, former Editor-in-Chief of Psychology Today. “And we don’t get there without struggle. And once we have it we don’t keep it forever; we have to continue to struggle to maintain it. The possession of authentic power, then, is an ongoing process.”

So don’t worry, you’re not too late, and the only one you need to race against is yourself—but I wouldn’t recommend it. Instead, every time you hear that nagging little voice in your head, instead of telling it to shut up (which often makes it scream louder), embrace it, say to your inner demon, “I love you, I value you, and I am grateful for all you’ve done for me.” And then wait.

Chances are, it will shut up out of sheer amazement. After a lifetime of hearing “go away,” the simple words “I love you” will leave it reeling for a little while and give you a little peace. This, in turn, will allow you to focus on tapping into that well of power that sits oh-so-quietly within you and is waiting for you to simply draw from it.

How? “Authentic power is gained through vigorous participation in life,” says Marano, “coupled with an openness to new experiences, emotional sure-footedness, strong ties to other people, the ability to find interest and pleasure in whatever we encounter and, most of all, the ability to construct meaning in our lives.”

W

By Amy Fardell

Tapping the Power WithinIdiot! What on earth were you thinking??Did you really think you were capable enough for that?Better not say that, you’re not good enough to deserve better, anyway…

Here are some ways to start the process:1. Keep a mind journal. Record how your thoughts and words impact your feelings. Pay attention to how your emotions unconsciously drive your behaviour. What are your hidden core beliefs? How do these affect your happiness?2. Cultivate an “attitude of gratitude.” Try to assign a value to things like your eyes, your legs, and other priceless things. Be aware of the gifts in your life, don’t overlook anything. When you learn to give your mind a new interpretation to what’s around you, you begin to see a whole new world.3. Pay attention. Mastering where and how we focus our attention is the key to self freedom. Next time you find your mind wandering to a dozen different things, stop, take a breath, and think about what you really want focus your energy on.

Remember, this is not a one-time deal. Most of us will have to work on our personal power throughout our lives. In the end, however, it really is the journey, rather than the destination, that helps you achieve your goals and dreams. See you on the road.

42 WestCoastFamilies.com

bringing backSexythe

M A K E O V E R C O N T E S T

the final reveal!

presented by

Name: Patricia (Patty) HamblerAge: 38Occupation: University student affairs officer# of children: Two, ages 2 and 6What she’s learned: “I’ve been experimenting with lettuce wraps—seeing how many things I can put into a lettuce wrap [instead of eating pizza]!”

Name: Shirley-Anne ParsonsAge: 44Occupation: Stay-at-home mom# of children: Two, ages 4 and 6What she’s learned: No one looks good in orange!

Name: Rehana IshmailAge: 29Occupation: Pharmacy technician# of children: Two, ages 1 and 3What she’s learned: “Looks aren’t everything, but I think it is important to look good, because it does make you feel good.”

Name: Jodelene WeirAge: 33Occupation: Technical support specialist# of children: One, age 18 monthsWhat she’s learned: Outdated patterns are nobody’s friend!

For those of you who have been following the various adventures of our four contestants online—moms Patty, Shirley, Rehana and Jodelene—as they sweated at bootcamp and survived a 21-day fitness and nutrition challenge, all while

re-learning their personal style, and generally having a blast—the waiting is over! Each mom entered this contest for her own reasons, but they have all come out of it with a new understanding and value of themselves as individuals, rather

than just as someone’s mom, someone’s wife, etc.

Now, the contest has come to an end, and the four women revealed their new look to family and friends at a fabulous party at the Boathouse by English Bay. Our sincere thanks go out to all of the sponsors for this contest, and most

especially to Joyce Lau of Yummy Mummy Makeovers. Make sure to watch the webisodes chronicling the ladies’ many adventures at www.sweetcurrant.com/yummymummymakeovers.

43November/December 2010

Adult Events for the Hip Mom Around Town!

Book Talk with Elizabeth KostovaLynn Valley Main Library, North VancouverNovember 4, 7-8:30pm Elizabeth Kostova, will discuss her new novel, The Swan Thieves, a sweeping tale of historical intrigue spanning centuries and continents. The Swan Thieves is the story of a beautiful woman, a mysterious painting, and a secret from the depths of art history. This event is free and everyone is welcome. Registration required.604.984.0286 ext. 8144

Lovestruck Bridal ShowThe Vancouver Club, West HastingsNovember 7, 10am-5:30pmAt this interactive and fashionable bridal show, every bride will receive a compli-mentary stuffed swag bag. Come get pampered in the nail spa, get a makeover in the glamour area, or relax at the signature cocktail lounge. Brides $35; Guests $30.lovestruckbrides.com

Make ‘n’ Take ExtravaganzaMaking Memories, BurnabyNovember 11-13, various timesEach session will be 1.5 hours long, making 4 mini projects. As well, you will re-ceive a goodie bag! $20/session plus tax per person. Please pre-register.604.299.3601 | makingmemorieswithscrapbooking.com

Circle Craft Christmas MarketVancouver Convention CentreNovember 17-21, various hours This market has been a Vancouver tradition for 37 years. Unique handcrafted gift items direct from the artisans who make them! circlecraft.net

Christmas Boutique & Positively Petite Exhibition Place Des ArtsNovember 13-December 18Browse in peace amidst beautiful high quality, handcrafted items made by tal-ented local artists. Grand opening is November 18 at 7pm.604.664.1636 | placedesarts.ca

Bossy Moms BoutiqueCity of Port Moody Theatre GalleryNovember 14, 2pm-6:30pmCome out and support self-employed moms, aka. Bossy Moms, and shop for jew-ellery, skin care, make-up, homecare, educational, crafts, baby accessories and toys, women’s wellness, clothing, paintings, photography and more. There will be free workshops as well as musical entertainment. Admission is free, however do-nations of soft toys or children’s slippers are appreciated to go towards a shelter for abused women and children.bossymomsboutique.com | childrensdirectory.net

Tattoo Fashion Show and Nude Sketch NightScience WorldNovember 19, 7pm-9pmThis adults’ only evening will get you buzzing over other ways we use our bodies. Must be 19+. See website for details.604.443.7443 | scienceworld.ca

WestCoast Christmas ShowTradex Centre, AbbotsfordNovember 26-28, various hoursWestern Canada’s first holiday season show that brings together under one roof holiday decor, gifts, food, personal services, festive seminars, and celebrity stage presentations. Tickets $10.westcoastchristmasshow.com

Portobello West MarketRocky Mountaineer StationNovember 28, noon-6pmCome out and show your support to the market that brings you fabulous local designers, one-of-a-kind finds, and great memories month after month! Admis-sion is $2.portobellowest.com Shopping Party FundraiserCefa LangleyDecember 4th, 10am-4pmFree coffee and baked goods while you shop! Door prizes and lots of great prod-ucts and services to browse and complete your Christmas Shopping! Proceeds of the fundraiser will be going towards programs at the school as well as upgrading the Baby Playground. Admission $2.604.881.2332 | cefa.ca

One of a Kind Show and SaleVancouver Convention CentreDecember 9-12, various timesMeet over 300 artisans one-on-one, take in daily fashion shows and seminars, and visit shopping neighbourhoods. Every piece at this show is made by hand, making each item something special. Adults $10.00. oneofakindvancouver.com

Polar Bear Swim English Bay Bathhouse January 1, 2:30pmCostumes, courage, prizes, a commemorative button and the Peter Pantages Me-morial 100 yard swim race are the highlights of the 90th annual Polar Bear Swim. Participation is free, but you must register on-site.vancouver.ca

Want WestCoast Families at YOUR event?Call 604.249.2866 or email admin@westcoastfamilies.com to receive free delivery of our magazines to your family event!

44 WestCoastFamilies.com

Marketplace

Vancouver EastSunset Community Centre

The Family PlaceTrout Lake Community Centre

Vancouver Public Library, Riley Park Branch East Side Family Place

Mid Main Community Health Centre

Vancouver WestGymboree Play

Oakridge Centre Info DeskVancouver Public Library, Kitsilano Branch

Helen Sands Sleep ConsultantMarpole Community Centre

Storey Law

Vancouver DowntownVancouver Public Library, Central Branch

Vancouver LookoutThe Nest

Maybo Children’s WearScience World

Dorothy Lam Family PlaceNannies On Call

North ShoreW Lucas Learning Centre

Seycove Community CentreNorth Shore Family Services

Nutrition HousePar-T-Perfect

North Vancouver Public Library, Capilano Branch

Richmond Turning Point Wellness Centre

West Richmond Community CentreArts Connection

Connaught Skating ClubRichmond Country Farms

Richmond Public Library, Brighouse Branch

Tri-Cities/Maple RidgeCoquitlam Public Library

Chimo PoolJelly Beans Kids Consignment

Baby’s WorldPitt Meadows Public Library

Port Moody Social Recreation CentreInner Choices Career Centre

Evolve Family Wellness Centre

BurnabyBC Hydro Children’s Centre

Burnaby Public Library, McGill BranchCentennial Community Centre

Canlan Ice SportsQueensborough Community Centre

Surrey/DeltaABC Restaurant

Kids CornerBear Creek Park Train

Frozen ReflectionsSungod Arena

Surrey Public Library, Strawberry Hill Branch

Where to pick up your copy of

All Wrapped Up Party SuppliesBirthday Party Supplies & Favours

Everything you need to create a memorablebirthday party for your child, conveniently

delivered right to your door.Over 40 popular licensed themes including: Spiderman,

Strawberry Shortcake, Dora the Explorer and many more.

(604)574-6127 www.allwrappedup.ca

All Wrapped Up MP:Layout 1 9/4/07 7:35 PM Page 1

A magical comedic fun-filled show, with one of 30 costumed characters.Performing: Singing, Dancing, Magic, Animaloons, Joking Puppets & Face

Painting. For: Parties, Holiday Celebrations & Promotional Events.

736★0876 / 729★4987www.castletopcharacters.com

Castletop Characters:Layout 1 9/5/07 7:24 PM Page 1

Children love Peter Rooke’s fun-filledmagic shows! To help make your party

extra special, call Peter at

604-984-6822

Fun MagicShows

Peter Rooke:Layout 1 10/17/07 9:27 AM Page 1

45November/December 2010

111110044-WestCoastFamilies-Burrito-8.375x10.75

Limited time offer. At participating McDonald’s® restaurants in Canada. Product availability varies by restaurant. © 2010 McDonald’s.

BREAKFASTBURRITO

$139eachplus taxONLY

46 WestCoastFamilies.com

last look

Snowman Collage & PrintSuitable for ages 3-7

• White tempera paint • 11 x 17 white paper (I used cardstock)• Masking tape• Tissue paper scraps• Fun foam (cut into a top hat shape)(cut into a carrot nose)• Twigs (2-3”)• Google eyes• Felt (cut into a 3” scarf shape)• Buttons • White liquid glue (and watered down glue/water mix)• 3 different sizes of sponges (cut into circles: small-2.5”, medium-3”, and large-4”)• Cookie or flat tray, brushes, small bowl· Optional: photographs or books about SNOWMEN

Day One: Create a collage of colours on the white paper.1. Brush a small amount of the water/glue mixture onto the white paper.2. Lay a scrap of tissue on top of the wet area.3. Brush another layer of the water/glue mixture on top of the tissue.4. Repeat until the entire paper is covered in tissue (make sure to overlap the tissue in some areas). See sample of red, orange, yellow tissue collage.5. Allow to dry.

Day Two: Printing the Snowman1. Pour a layer of white paint onto the tray.2. Dip the large sponge in the white paint then press onto the bottom of your collage. Repeat with medium and small sponges, creating your snowman from largest circle to smallest circle (make sure to overlap the circles and leave room at the top of the paper for the hat).3. Embellish using the white glue: add the hat, scarf, googly eyes, twig arms, buttons, button mouth, carrot nose, etc. Optional: add gloves, decorate the hat.

Romare Bearden (September 2, 1911 – March 12, 1988) was an African-American artist who worked in several mediums including collage. A collage (from the French word “coller” which means “to glue”) is a work of art made from an assemblage of different forms.

Romare Bearden, 9 One Night Stand, collage, 1974

1. Watered down glue: in a small bowl mix 60% water with 40% white glue.2. Tape each child’s paper to a surface (can be a table, desk, piece of cardboard from a box) like so:

Supply List

Instructions

Artistic Influence

Preparation

tape around entire paper

By Shari Pratt

Shari Pratt is a local artist and teacher and owner of Creative Kaos School of Art and Imagineering. www.sharipratt.com

47November/December 2010

48 WestCoastFamilies.com