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Adventures in Gardening: Growing Your Own Food Is Fun & Fruitful

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There’s something magical about planting a tiny seed and watching it grow into something you can actually eat. And for families, an edible garden is more than just a source of fresh food — it’s quality time outside, a science lesson, and a lot of fun.

Planting season is upon us, so consider reserving space for tomatoes, zucchini, beans, lettuce, herbs, and even some berry bushes. Whether you have a backyard, a small patio, or a cozy condo balcony, there are plenty of ways to create a garden that is easy to maintain, eco-friendly, and deliciously rewarding.

If the idea of a full-fledged veggie patch feels overwhelming, consider starting small with a herb garden. A few pots of basil, parsley, or mint can provide fresh flavour for your meals and is a simple way for kids to get involved by snipping a handful of herbs for dinner. If space is tight, consider a vertical garden. Wall mounted planters or stackable pots make the most of a small area. They look great, too.

When they’ve planted, watered, and picked it themselves, even the pickiest eaters may be willing to try a fresh snap pea or red pepper.

For people with yards, raised garden beds or a dedicated vegetable patch can yield an impressive harvest. Just be sure to plan your space wisely. Some plants, like zucchini, can take over if given the chance. Trust me, it’s all fun and games until your zucchini ends up wrapped around your neighbour’s pool pump. If you’re short on space, containers along a fence line or placed on a patio are a great option. Tomatoes, peppers, and even strawberries can thrive in pots.

“Good soil is the foundation of a great garden,” says Catherine Bulow, Store Manager at Bulow Garden Centre, Oakville. “If you’re planting in the ground, enrich your soil with compost or aged manure before digging in,” she says. “In containers, use a high-quality organic potting
mix. Don’t forget to space plants according to their needs.”

Bulow stresses the importance of giving seedlings enough room to thrive. While they’re not happy when crowded, giving seedlings too much space can waste valuable growing room. “As a general rule of thumb, try to plant leafy greens closer together, while sprawling plants like cucumbers need space to spread,” she says. To keep your garden as low-maintenance and sustainable as possible, consider using self-watering containers.

Savvy gardeners have learned through trial and error that, just as humans thrive when surrounded by others we get along with, companion plants support each other. For example, tomatoes and basil thrive together, and marigolds help keep pests away.

One final tip

Don’t forget to water your garden, especially during the hot months. Add mulch to retain moisture — it does double duty by keeping pesky weeds down. Your local garden centre sells a variety of mulches, including cedar and pine, that can play a big role in protecting your garden from drought.

Watching plants grow from a seedling to a full-grown edible plant is very satisfying. If you give kids a basket or bowl for ripe veggies and berries, they’ll definitely sample sun-warmed cherry tomatoes fresh off the vine. My daughter claims she must taste the raspberries she picks for “quality control” purposes.

One of the best parts of growing your own food is watching kids connect with what’s on their plate. When they’ve planted, watered, and picked it themselves, even the pickiest eaters may be willing to try a fresh snap pea or red pepper. Gardening teaches children about the ecosystem, the privilege of fresh and nutritious food, and how patience can lead to yummy rewards.

LOCAL LINKS

Agram Garden Centre
2018 Dundas Street East,
Oakville

Bulow Garden Centre
370 South Service Road West,
Oakville

Connon Nurseries
656 Robson Road,
Waterdown
connon.ca

Terra Greenhouses
2273 Halton Regional Road 5,
Burlington
terragreenhouses.com

Sheridan Nurseries
606 Southdown Road,
Mississauga
sheridannurseries.com

By Lisa Thornbury
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Embrace The Heat: A Guide To Hot Peppers

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Try to picture the last time you ate something spicy. Did you immediately have a burning sensation on your tongue or did the heat slowly build over time?

An instant burst of heat was likely the work of a scotch bonnet or ghost pepper. A milder pepper, such as a jalapeno or poblano, would’ve been responsible for the latter.

According to Leith Bengtson, founder of Burlington-based hot sauce producer Fury Hot Sauce, hot peppers can have a place in everybody’s kitchens — whether you’re a spice novice or self-proclaimed chili head.

In a place like Canada, the options are truly endless.

“All of the different cultures can come together to bring different aspects of heat to the table,” says Bengtson. “We’re seeing more and more different peppers around the world being represented, from African- style peppers to Peruvian. It’s an exciting smorgasbord we all benefit from.”

For those new to the world of spice or those who already enjoy spicy food and are looking for inspiration, these tips and tricks are sure to elevate everyday dishes.

Experiment with dried peppers


There’s a significant difference between a fresh pepper and a dried pepper. “A fresh jalapeno, for instance, has a fresh and vibrant bite to it, but then you take the dried version of that jalapeno — called a chipotle —and it becomes a whole different pepper,” says Ricardo Alvarez, owner of north Burlington’s Mexican eatery, Pepe and Lela’s.

Chipotle peppers have a smoky depth of flavour, with less punchy spice than a jalapeno. At Pepe and Lela’s, Alvarez rehydrates chipotle peppers in water before blending them into a crema sauce.

Habaneros are the new jalapeno

Jalapenos are known to be the go-to pepper for people with a lower spice tolerance, but Bengtson argues that habaneros deserve morerecognition for being similarly palatable.

“Habaneros are admittedly a few steps higher in terms of heat than jalapenos, but they’ve got really nice fruity characteristics. Generally speaking, you’d find habaneros in a lot of Caribbean and West Indian-style pepper sauces.”

Bengtson encourages people to get creative with habanero- based hot sauces, beyond the typical drizzle on pizza or wings. Hot sauces are great mixed into mayo and added to a sandwich, or even in hummus to be dipped with vegetables.

Remove the seeds andalways use gloves


The seeds are responsible for the majority of a pepper’s heat. If you’re just introducing spice into your life, put some gloves on and cut out the white membrane that holds the pepper’s seeds. “You’re left with the fleshy part of the pepper and you’re able to get much more of the natural pepper flavour without as much of the heat,” says Bengtson.

You should always wear gloves when handling hot peppers, since they contain capsaicin, an oil that can cause a burning sensation on your skin if it comes into contact.

Wash your hands thoroughly after removing gloves, to ensure the pepper’s oils haven’t seeped through. The worst thing you can do is rub your eyes without clean hands.

Serve the heat on the side


When Alvarez opened Pepa and Lela’s nearly six years ago, his vision was to make spicy food more approachable to the average customer. He takes a “Mexican cuisine approach” to heat, by offering extra spicy salsas on the side. This way, people can start and measure the amount of spice they use until they get more accustomed to it.

Alvarez shares his advice for making a delicious salsa. “Offset the intensity with a dash of olive oil or something sweet. You can never go wrong with a jalapeno pineapple salsa.”

LOCAL LINKS

Fury Hot Sauce | furyhotsauce.com
Pepe and Lela’s | pepeandlelas.com
Narenj | narenjoakville.com
El Inka | elinka.ca
Spice & Saffron | spicensaffron.com
Joe’s African & Caribbean Market | joesburlington.com
The Spice Bazaar | thespicebazaar.ca

BY LAUREN MEDEIROS
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Laugh Your Head Off: Improv Classes May Be Just What The Doctor Ordered

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Two adults who hardly know each other are performing a murder scene at a comedy improv workshop. The man hits the woman on the head with a hammer, and she falls dramatically – so dramatically that she hurls her body through the air and lands hard, whacking her head on the leg of a table.

That woman was me. I got so into my role that I almost gave myself a concussion. While the instructor rushed off to get me some ice, my “murderer” sheepishly apologized, staring incredulously at the invisible (ie. non-existent) hammer in his hand.

As I write this, Southern Ontario is in a polar vortex and world politics are nothing to laugh about. Fortunately, there’s a cure for the blues right here in your neighbourhood.

Try some crazy fun

Studios and theatres in the Halton and Hamilton-Wentworth regions offer improv workshops for both kids and adults. Participants play games, do interactive exercises and sometimes act out scenes. The aim is to watch for the other person’s cues and respond in the moment. It’s trickier than it sounds, but the results are often hilarious.

Amy McKenzie, one of the founders of Oakville Improv Theatre Company, got into improv because it satisfied her need to perform but didn’t require “the aggressive and sometimes brutal competition” of auditions. “On the whole, the people I found who were attracted to improv were people who enjoyed collaborating, playing (like children do — without fear), and laughing,” she says. “It blew my mind.”

People from all walks of life learn improv, for myriad reasons. Those pursuing a career on stage gain valuable performance skills. For others it helps with social skills, builds courage, and brightens our mood. Improv teaches us to relax, and to be affable and fearless in front of others.

Good for what ails you

According to McKenzie, some folks sign up for improv classes because their HR people said they needed to get better at interacting with peers. And given that laughter is the best medicine, she adds, “I’ve literally had two people tell me improv was their prescription [from their doctor] to get them out of their heads, either for anxiety or depression.”

Christina Payne, founder of Improv Your Life, says many of her adult students (ages 18 to 78) have taken classes “to better themselves as a whole, to wiggle out of their comfort zones, meet new like-minded creative or funny friends, and try something that was outside the box to their usual.”

Almost anyone can do improv, as long as they’re willing to try something new. Participants should be open-minded. Some are surprised to discover that improv isn’t so much “thinking fast” as it is about slowing down and really listening to what’s going on around you. A reasonable degree of fitness also helps, since improvisers often use mime to create objects and environments and build a scene for the audience.

The Magic of Improv

“One of my favourite anecdotes is about a class we did with a group of parents and youths with autism. We were playing a game where everyone jumps in with an element to a frozen picture (or tableau) and all the students couldn’t wait to add their piece of the puzzle — except one young man who studiously stayed back and hadn’t participated for the entire class. His mother was trying to get him to leave her side, but he wouldn’t budge and seemed non-verbal.

At the last part of the game, we were building an airport. Some had jumped in as tourists, some as luggage, some as flight crew walking by. I had coached them to loudly proclaim what they were becoming, starting with the words ‘I am …’

I was just about to end the exercise because everyone had joined, when the young man boldly walked up to the stage area, lay down on the floor in a fetal position and yelled, “I am a refugee!”

Of course, all of the parents and I just gasped. It was so beautiful and a poignant addition to the picture. We thought he wasn’t paying attention, but he was deeply engaged.”

– AMY MCKENZIE,
Oakville Improv Theatre Company

A craft to master

Improv is, above all, an art form. Participants from Improv Your Life and Oakville Improv have gone on to perform at Second City, Saturday Night Live, Who’s Line is it Anyway, or to form their own improv troupes, write or perform in scripted or televised work.

As for the rest of us (who get hit by invisible hammers socially, not professionally), dabbling in the art of improv can be life-changing. It boosts confidence, teaches us to interact and collaborate with others, and feels wonderful. Best of all, it gets us in touch with our silliest and most genuine selves.

As Payne has found both as a performer andas a teacher, improv allows participants to be themselves. It’s something they can do “just for them,” she says, “not as a mother/wife/hubby/boss. Just something for them, without judgement.”

LOCAL LINKS

IMPROV YOUR LIFE
Find them on Facebook or e-mail
christina@improvyourlife.ca

OAKVILLE IMPROV THEATRE
COMPANY
2302 Bridge Road, Oakville
oakvilleimprov.com

THE STAIRCASE
27 Dundurn Street North, Hamilton
staircasehamilton.com

By Michelle Morra

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Game On: Indoor Sports To Keep You Active All Winter

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Canadian winters have a way of making us want to curl up under a blanket, drink our body weight in hot chocolate, and hibernate until Victoria Day. But while the windchill gives us the chills, there’s no need to give up on staying active. Indoor sports are the perfect way to keep moving, have fun, and shake off the winter blahs.

Where should you go to get your game on? Here are a few local indoor sports options to keep your energy up until tank top season.

Soccer

Many recreation centres and soccer domes offer leagues for all ages and skill levels, from casual pick-up games to competitive matches. The turf is forgiving, the pace is fast, and you won’t need to dig ice chunks out of your cleats. Or why not try futsal? It’s very much like soccer but uses a smaller, low bounce ball on a hard-court surface, smaller than a soccer pitch. This fast-paced game will get your blood pumping.

oakvillesoccer.ca
oakvillefutsalclub.com

Rock Climbing

Indoor climbing gyms offer a controlled environment where you can challenge yourself on different routes, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber. Bouldering is great if you want a shorter climb without the hassle of ropes, while top-rope climbing lets you reach new heights with a little extra security. Either way, it’s a killer workout without the frostbitten fingers.

climbersrock.com

Pickleball

If you haven’t tried pickleball yet, it’s time to see what the hype is about. This fast-paced, super-addictive game is a mix of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, played with paddles and a wiffle ball. The new indoor pickleball and paddle club that opened last fall in Burlington caught our attention. Blue Zone Courts co-owner Joyce Telmo-Kanti says, “Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the world, and we’re seeing players of all ages coming to our club to learn and play.

“Padel is the newest ‘cool’ sport — massive in Europe, Latin America, and Dubai, and now taking off in Canada. Big names like Lionel Messi, Rafa Nadal, and David Beckham are hooked! It’s played on a glass-enclosed court, smaller than tennis, with fast rallies and exciting game play. If tennis and squash had a baby, it would be padel. It’s easy to learn and perfect for anyone looking for a dynamic and addictive racquet sport.”

bluezonecourts.com

Golf


If you’re itching to hit the links but your local course is buried under two feet of snow, indoor golf is the next best thing. High-tech simulators let you play virtual versions of world-famous courses without worrying about wind gusts or frosty greens. Facilities with putting greens and driving ranges help you refine your short game. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your swing sharp, practice putting, and avoid spring-season rust when the outdoor courses finally open.

simulinks.ca | dundasgolf.ca | tripleeaglegolf.com | birdiesindoorgolf.ca

Tennis and Badminton

Indoor courts allow you to keep your game sharp year-round and even build new skills. Whether you’re into casual rallies or intense matches, playing indoors means no wind messing up your serve and no puddles turning the baseline into a slip-and-slide.

joshuacreektennis.ca | ymcaofoakville.org

Drop-In Basketball

Many community centres host drop-in basketball sessions where you can show off your skills or just shoot around for fun. Whether you’re looking for a casual pick- up game or just a way to burn off some energy, indoor courts offer a great escape from winter’s grip, no mittens required.

kingscourts.ca/oakville

Staying active during winter isn’t just about avoiding couch potato status — it’s about keeping your body and mind engaged. Exercise boosts endorphins, helps fight off seasonal blues, and lets you socialize while doing something fun. Plus, when spring finally arrives, you’ll be ready to jump back into outdoor activities without needing a warm-up period.

So, pick an activity, grab a friend, and go play!

By Lisa Thornbury

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Party Time! Planning A Fabulous Birthday For Your Child Is A Piece of Cake

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Want to take your child’s birthday party beyond cake and balloons? Make it an experience they will never forget! Halton Region has plenty of options for themed adventures, interactive entertainment and activities that promise to make your child’s special day as unique as they are.

Party Like a Pop Star
B Town Sound
919 Fraser Drive, Unit 10, Burlington

Have a young Swiftie? At Party Like a Pop Star, kids don’t just party to pop songs—they become pop stars! This professional recording studio rolls out the red carpet (literally!) for a VIP experience. From glam makeup to recording a song or even making a music video, the kids are the stars of this show.

“They’re getting a behind-the-scenes experience of what it’s like to be a professional,” says Robyn Pauhl, owner of Party Like a Pop Star. And the cool factor? Off the charts. Custom playlists, cocktail tables, and yes, your kid can sit on the same couch Shawn Mendes did when he recorded here. You can even go full rockstar and arrive in a limo. This is more than a party—it’s an epic experience for kids who are ready to steal the spotlight!

The Learning Tree
1450 Headon road, Burlington

We all know teachers are the best organizers and at The Learning Tree, they’re also the best party hosts! Their themed birthday parties are a hit, with adoption parties (where kids can adopt a toy puppy, unicorn or dino) being the crowd favourite. The Learning Tree can even customize themes to match your child’s unique taste. “We had an ‘Adopt a Raccoon’ party as the birthday girl was obsessed with raccoons,” says Jodi Bowman, owner of The Learning Tree in Burlington. Each party is led by an Ontario Certified Teacher. At just $199 for the first 10 children, it’s an affordable, stress-free way to celebrate.

4Cats Arts Studio
Oakville & Burlington locations


Are you worried your little artist might turn your living room into a paint- splattered masterpiece? 4Cats Splatter Painting Parties allow kids to fling, splash and drip paint — without a single drop landing on your living room carpet! Each guest makes their own masterpiece, then helps create a larger canvas for the birthday star. It’s fun, it’s messy, and you don’t have to clean up a thing!

Yogatastic 4 Kids
3061 Walkers Line, Burlington

Take your child’s party to new heights at Yogatastic 4 Kids. Kids will fly, float and flip through suspension yoga poses followed by a mindfulness craft and, of course, cake. Want even more excitement? Go glow-in-the-dark under the studio’s neon lights. Kids even get to graffiti the studio’s mirrors, creating a one-of-a-kind glowing masterpiece. It’s the perfect combination of mindfulness, creativity and celebration!

Whether you’re hosting at home or want to add some extra fun to a venue, there are plenty of unique entertainment options to make your child’s party one to remember.

Bubble Shows

Laura Martin, owner of Beebop the Clown & Friends, calls her bubble shows a fresh alternative to traditional magic shows. The show is filled with science-based bubble tricks—from a bubble tornado to a bubble cube! For the grand finale, the birthday child gets wrapped inside a giant bubble. “It’s a really great photo opportunity,” says Martin. Bubble shows do need to be done indoors although Martin also offers outdoor bubble play parties for backyard events.

Balloon Twisting

Balloon animals have come a long way! Today’s balloon creations are wearable, interactive, and larger-than- life. “You can have all the balloons on a headband or you put it around their stomach and they’re running around riding a balloon dinosaur or a unicorn or they’re wearing butterfly wing balloons,” says Martin.

Character Appearances

Whether it’s Frozen’s Elsa or Spiderman swinging in for some superhero fun, character appearances add excitement and engagement, creating unforgettable memories and cherished photo moments. With so many creative and engaging options, birthday parties today aremore than just cake and candles—they’re experiences to remember.

By Lisa Evans
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Sign Me Up! Halton’s Best Summer Camps For Kids

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The first time I tried to register my kids for summer camp, I thought I was totally on top of it. On that sunny day in May, feeling ahead of the game, I learned the hard way that camp registration had opened months earlier… right in the middle of snowstorm season. By the time I got around to it, most camps were already full. It’s why Look Local’s summer camp round- up always makes the spring issue. Whether your kid dreams of sailing the high seas (ahoy matey!), exploring the great outdoors, or channeling their inner Swiftie, there’s an adventure waiting for them this summer!

Set Sail with Bronte Yacht Club
2514 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville
bhyc.on.ca

Ready to set sail? At Bronte Harbour Yacht Club (BHYC), young sailors aged 7 to 17 can jump into an amazing sailing adventure with the Learn to Sail program. Led by Sail Canada certified instructors, this camp is all about fun, skill building, and time on the water — perfect for beginners and experienced sailors alike. Campers will learn boat handling, safety, and navigation while earning nationally recognized certifications. And when they’re not sailing? Expect more fun with activities like paddleboarding on Bronte Creek or ultimate frisbee in the park.

Explore the Great Outdoors
with Conservation Halton
Conservation Halton Parks
conservationhalton.ca

If your kids can’t get enough of the great outdoors, Conservation Halton’s Ways of the Woods camps are just the thing! Designed for adventurers aged 4 to 15, these camps take place across multiple parks, offering a true “choose your own adventure” experience. With camps offering hiking, swimming, boating, and archery, there’s no shortage of action. Plus, specialized options like “Raptor Camp” or “Girls Camp,” led by and for girls, ensure every camper finds their perfect fit.

Dive into History
at Oakville Museum
8 Navy Street, Oakville
oakville.ca

Looking for a summer camp that sparks curiosity and creativity? Oakville Museum has you covered. Designed for kids ages 4 to 12, this hands-on camp lets them dive into artifacts, critters, crafts, and more through immersive activities and themed weeks. From science and nature to heritage, architecture, and design, there’s always something new to discover. And the best part? It all happens in Lakeside Park, surrounded by historic Oakville sites — the perfect setting for a summer of learning and adventure!

Animal Adventures at Oakville
& Milton Humane Society
445 Cornwall Road, Oakville
omhs.ca

Kids & Critters is so much more than a camp. It’s an experience that leaves an impact. Hosted by the Oakville & Milton Humane Society, this hands-on, animal- focused camp gives kids (ages 6 to 12) the chance to connect with shelter animals, play games, get creative with crafts, and learn from inspiring guest speakers. It’s all about fun, responsibility, and compassion. With only 12 spots per week, it fills up fast. Don’t miss out!

Get Sporty at Cedar Springs Halton
Racquet & Sports Club
960 Cumberland Avenue, Burlington
cedarspringsclub.ca

Cedar Springs Sports Camps aren’t just about sports.They’re about teamwork, coordination, and having fun while staying active! At Burlington’s top racquet sports facility, little ones enjoy a variety of activities tailored to skill, supporting growth and enjoyment. With days packed full of expert training in
tennis, squash, and badminton, plus access to the club’s indoor/outdoor waterpark, there’s no shortage of fun or excitement!

Step Up to Dance at Dancermakerz
12 Innovation Drive, Waterdown
dancemakerz.com

Calling all Swifties (and Frozen, Moana, and Barbie fans)! Dancemakerz keeps the energy high all summer with dance camps full of fun, creativity, and self-expression. From ballet to hip-hop, kids will explore different styles of dance in a supportive space. Campers get the chance to show off their moves in end-of-week performances!

Art Gallery of Burlington
1333 Lakeshore Road, Burlington
agb.life

The AGB offers a huge variety of camps for kids from the age of 4 all the way up to 18. Half day and full day options are available, and you can choose to work with clay, perfect your photography skills, work with mixed media, or choose a general artistic program. Kids should expect to expand their imaginations, try new tools and processes, and make new friends, all under the supervision of qualified instructors.

Town of Oakville
Summer Camps
Various locations across town
oakville.ca

The Town of Oakville offers a wide variety of camps for children aged 4 to 12 at various parks and locations across town. In addition to full-day week-long camps, the flexible Super Playgrounds program makes stops at parks in many neighbourhoods. Depending on your child’s interests, you can choose from programs including Arts & Culture, Hockey & Skating, Leadership, Science & Nature, and Sports & Aquatics. There truly is something for everyone.

BY ANNELIESE LAWTON
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Grounded In Style: Enrich Every Room With Just The Right Rug

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A well-selected carpet or rug can completely transform a space – adding warmth, texture, and personality without the need for a full home renovation. Whether you’re looking for a timeless colour or a bold statement piece, understanding what’s trending can help you make the right choice.

Rug Revolution:

Colour, Patterns, and Texture After years of seeing an abundance of grey in- home décor, trends are shifting toward warmer hues like taupe, which bridges grey with brown, beige, and tan. These earthy tones create a cozier feel while maintaining a versatile foundation for any space.

“Trending in rugs and carpets this year are warm neutrals and warm whites,” says Jim Anderson of Andersons Interiors. “We are also seeing a movement back to patterned jewel tones like emerald green.” Beyond these warming tones, Samantha Hobbs of Joshua Creek Furniture notes a growing preference for organic, fluid designs. “Customers are drawn to rugs with water-like ripples, designs with soft and curvy waves, cloud- like abstracts, and irregular patterns that evoke a connection to natural beauty.”

Joshua Creek Furniture

Vintage-inspired rugs are also making a strong comeback, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. “There’s a noticeable shift toward vibrant hues and intricate designs,” says Cara Almeida of House Warmings. “Jewel tones like rich blues, burgundy, and deep greens are in demand, while natural fibre rugs such as jute, sisal, and wool remain popular for their texture and eco-friendly appeal.”

Texture itself is playing a bigger role in rug selection. From plush carpeting to woven patterns, a textured rug adds depth and dimension to a space. “We can feel texture not only by touch but with our eyes as well,” explains Fraz Khan of Woven Concept Rug Gallery. “It adds softness to hard surface flooring, making the space more inviting.”

Woven Concept Rug Gallery

“Practicality is also a key consideration, with washable and stain-resistant rugs becoming increasingly popular – especially in homes with children or pets. These options provide convenience without compromising style,” adds Almeida.

Size Matters: Visually Maximize Your Space

Choosing the right rug size is essential – not just for aesthetics, but for creating a balanced and well-proportioned space. “The size of the rug determines the visual size of the room, so be careful not to go too small,” says Anderson. “A rug should ground your furniture to create the space. The only place a rug should have wood showing all around it is in a dining room or foyer.”

In living and family rooms, area rugs should be large enough to cover the main seating area. “At a minimum, the front legs of sofas and accent chairs should rest on the rug, but a rug that extends fully beneath the furniture is even better,” explains Hobbs.

House Warmings

In bedrooms, she recommends a rug that spans the width of the bed and nightstands, extending 18 inches to three feet beyond the sides and foot of the bed.

For dining rooms, she advises, “Your rug should extend at least two feet beyond the dining table, so chairs remain on the rug, even when pulled out.” Maintaining a minimum of 18 inches of exposed flooring around the perimeter ensures the rug enhances the space without overwhelming it.

Signature Style: Infuse Personality

A curated rug for your space is more than just a decorative piece – it’s a reflection of your personality and style. “A rug is a great way to inject your personality into a room,” says Anderson. “Remember, it’s your sanctuary after a long day, so choose a rug that reflects you and the feeling you want to have while in that space.”

Andersons Interiors

“If you have a love for a particular culture, history, or art style, a rug with any of those influences can really showcase your personality,” says Almeida
of House Warmings. “Whether it’s a handwoven rug from Morocco, a vintage rug from Turkey, or a bold statement piece with modern art influences, you can inject your passions and interests into your home décor.”

LOCAL LINKS:

Andersons Interiors
686 Guelph Line, Burlington
andersonsinteriors.ca

Joshua Creek Furniture
1029 Speers Road, Oakville
joshuacreekfurniture.com

House Warmings
550 Speers Road,
Unit #3, Oakville
housewarmings.ca

Woven Concept Rug Gallery
1200 Brant Street, Burlington
wovenconcept.com

By Nicole Hilton
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The Great Soup Rescue: Local Flavour Saviours Help A Struggling Cook

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People tend to romanticize soup. It’s the ultimate comfort food, they say. So warm and hearty. Good for what ails you. Like a hug in a bowl. Personally, I’ve never understood all this fuss over liquid food.

I consider myself a decent cook who’s big on flavour, but here’s my awful confession: I make boring soup. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve dumped an entire pot of it.

I do get the appeal of food that’s hot, soothing, economical and nutritious. The thing is, I want more than small morsels floating in bland broth. I want my soup to thrill my tastebuds. So, I have reached out to two celebrated food establishments for guidance.

No shortcuts

“What do soup-makers commonly do wrong?” I ask Luis Velasquez, Executive Chef and Owner, Familia Fine Foods in Burlington.

“Flavourless stocks, not enough time on the stovetop, and using artificial (supermarket) stocks,” he replies. But I’ve used real bones and still… blah. My chicken soup has never been good. Not even for the soul.

“You’re probably adding too much water or don’t have enough flavouring elements,” says Jacqui Cronin, Owner of The Platter Co and Table 10, a private dining room in Aldershot.

To bouillon or not to bouillon?

If your soup stock is thin in body and flavour, Cronin says it’s okay to fortify it with a pre-made stock paste, base, or bouillon cube from the grocery store. “If using these I would add them at the end, after you strain your stock, little by little, until you reach the desired flavour,” she says. “These do tend to be salty, so I would not add both salt and a pre-made stock base.

When Cronin makes chicken soup, she roasts a full chicken first, picks the meat off the bones and reserves the juices. She then re-roasts the carcass with vegetables and herbs. Next, in a pot with water, she boils and simmers all of this (including pan drippings). After 45 to 60 minutes, she either reduces the broth for more flavour, or just seasons it with salt and pepper.

I’m encouraged and can almost smell the roasted goodness! Now for my next question: Can plant-based soup taste decadent, too?

Meatless and marvellous

“If I were to make a vegetarian soup,” Cronin says, “I would make a roasted vegetable broth with carrot, onion, leek, celery, garlic, tomato, and some herbs like bay, parsley, thyme and rosemary.” Cronin cuts vegetables in 1-inch segments, tosses them in olive oil, roasts them, and then places them in a pot with just enough water to cover them. She brings this to a boil, lets it simmer for up to an hour, and strains it.

“If I wanted to intensify the flavour, I would then either bring the strained stock to a boil and reduce it or repeat the process of reboiling the stock, with more roasted vegetables…”

Velasquez shares his own tried-and-true tips: “Wash the vegetables properly,” he says. “Don’t discard the skins – those will be used later in the stock. Always start the stock with a good mirepoix (50% onion, 25% celery and 25% carrots). Add water and simmer for a minimum of one hour. If you want your soup thick, you can blend some of that mirepoix and put it back into the soup. Adjust with spices, salt and pepper.

I’m beginning to understand that soup is a labour of love. Rather than begrudge the process, I need to nurture my stock until I’m absolutely satisfied that
it’s bursting with flavour.

Supersoup does exist

Familia Fine Foods sells 15 varieties of frozen soups with gourmet, soul-warming flavours. Their signature Colombian soups express culture and home-made goodness in a bowl. “Ajiaco (chicken and potato), Sancocho (chicken, pork, plantain, cassava, and potato), Mondongo (beef tripe) and the Chicken Rice & Quinoa Soup have become staples, not only among the Latino community but also the Canadian clientele,” Velasquez says.

Among The Platter Co’s specialties are soups with a nostalgic twist. Their Tomato and Tarragon with Parmesan is a mature take on tomato soup with grilled cheese – warm and rich with heavy cream, scented with tarragon, and finished with a healthy amount of parmesan.

“Soup flavour is all about the balance and quality of ingredients,” Cronin says. “What you put in it is exactly what you’re going to get out of it. Patience is key.”

BY MICHELLE MORRA

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Get Ready For Taste 2025: Discover New Menus, Unique Flavours And Exciting New Features In Our Premier Culinary Events

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We are truly fortunate to live in a community with such a vast selection of great restaurants, with cuisine options from everywhere around the globe. This winter, why not treat yourself to some relaxing meals out, and say goodbye to food prep and the washing up?

Taste of Burlington and Taste of Oakville are back this winter with prix-fixe menus at some of the area’s best restaurants. These popular events should be all the motivation we need to venture out for a culinary adventure. The participating restaurants will create unique, mouth-watering courses for both lunch and dinner to showcase their culinary talents. Since each prix- fixe offering is carefully crafted with flavours that complement one another, you don’t have to agonize over what to order.

Taste of Burlington will return for its 17th year, running from January 27th to February 9th, offering two weeks of exceptional cuisine in many of Burlington’s best dining spots. Claire Green, Director of Destination Development and Marketing at Burlington Economic Development and Tourism, invites you to indulge in the creative menus and explore the unique flavours that make Burlington a culinary standout in southern Ontario. “This program is a testament to the incredible dining experiences Burlington has to offer and we’re very excited about this year’s line-up of restaurants and some of the new features we have planned.”

Taste of Oakville will run from February 17th to March 10th, featuring restaurants from Downtown, Bronte, Kerr Village and all across Oakville. The event is sponsored by our local BIAs, the Oakville Chamber of Commerce, and Visit Oakville. To add to the fun and celebration, many of the participating restaurants are planning to offer live music on Tuesdays this year.

So don’t delay − grab a friend, family member or go solo to discover what’s on offer this year.

To learn more about the restaurants participating, visit TASTEOFBURLINGTON.CA and TASTEOFOAKVILLE.CA

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Happiness Is A Blank Canvas: Treat Your Inner Van Gogh To A Local Art Class

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Art is more than just a creative outlet. It’s a way to relax, express yourself, and connect with others. Whether you’re looking to nurture your child’s creativity or pick up your own new hobby, art classes have something for everyone.

From painting to drawing, pottery and beyond, local studios offer a range of programs for both experienced and novice artists. For anyone wanting to start the year off with a worthwhile pursuit, art is the whole package – self-improvement (through new skills), self-expression, self-discovery and self-pampering. It can also be an absolute blast!

THIS IS YOUR BRAIN ON ART

4Cats Arts Studio

Why should you add art classes to your child’s schedule, or your own? For kids, art is more than just doodles and finger paint. Among its many developmental benefits, art builds fine motor skills and improves hand-eye coordination. It also provides an outlet for self-expression, emotions, and fostering important life skills.

“Art is a great way to help kids focus and learn patience,” says Zoe Medel, studio manager at 4Cats Art Studio in Burlington. “With drawing and painting, you really have to have the patience and focus when doing different techniques.”

Keir Overton, Director of Marketing, Events & Digital Strategy at the Dundas Valley School of Art, agrees,adding that art helps foster important developmental skills. “Mixing paint colours is a process of exploration and experimentation, while constructing a sculpture to stand tall and be supported involves critical thinking and problem solving.”

Art Gallery Of Burlington

In a fast-paced world, art also gives kids valuable time to develop a sense of self. “Art can create a space for kids to slow down and focus on their own making in a way that is self-directed and deeply fulfilling,” says Stephanie Vegh, Head of Learning at the Art Gallery of Burlington.

But the rewards aren’t just for kids! Adults, too, reap incredible benefits from artistic pursuits.

“For some, the art-making process is a journey of self-discovery and expression,” Overton explains. “For others, it’s about mastering a skill or pursuing excellence. Art can also offer healing and an avenue for processing life’s challenges.” The Dundas Valley School of Art offers diploma programs but also has introductory programs in every art medium, from painting and drawing to glass art, ceramics and even photography.

Dundas Valley School of Art

Carving out time in your week for an art class provides an opportunity to rest the active side of your brain – the one that’s always making grocery lists, paying bills and checking off your to-do list – and re-awaken the often-neglected right side. Art classes can even enrich your social life. “An art class can be a wonderful environment for meeting new people and encountering new ideas while also making time for your own personal creative growth,” says Vegh.

READY FOR ART CLASS?

Beyond Pottery

Halton Region is home to many art studios with a variety of offerings. There really is something for everyone, whether you’re six or 60. If you’re looking to get creative as a family, the Art Gallery of Burlington offers a free Family Open Studio on Sundays and a free space for exploring various art forms. This winter, the Family Open Studios will also feature different materials every two weeks such as fabric scraps, cardboard tubes, scrap paper and boxes. Family Open Studio happens on Sunday afternoons from 1 to 4 pm. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited, and early registration is recommended.

4Cats Art Studio offers multi-week programs covering a variety of programs for children, teens and adults as well as PA day workshops and family programs that encourage parent and child bonding through visual arts.

From pottery to drawing and sculpting, there’s always something new to discover. Check out a local studio to find an artform that speaks to you.

LOCAL LINKS

4CATS ARTS STUDIO
Burlington & Oakville locations
4cats.com

ART FOR LIFE 4 KIDS
2025 William O’Connell Blvd # 14,
Burlington
artforlife4kids.ca

ART GALLERY OF BURLINGTON
1333 Lakeshore Road
agb.life

CREATIVE INSIGHT POTTERY
23 Main St S, Waterdown
creativeinsightpottery.com

DUNDAS VALLEY SCHOOL OF ART
21 Ogilvie Street, Dundas
dvsa.ca

OAKVILLE ART SOCIETY
560 Bronte Road, Oakville
oakvilleartsociety.com

BEYOND POTTERY
3228 South Service Road #116,
Burlington
beyondpottery.ca

POTTERY N PAINT CAFE
3513 Wyecroft Road # H1,
Oakville
potterynpaintcafe.com

BY LISA EVANS

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