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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

Throughout Oakville, Burlington & the Hamilton area, there are a number of hidden gems that serve up everything from rich espressos to creative lattes! Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing spot to unwind or a bustling café to work from, your local area’s have something for everyone!

AU79 Coffee

Whether you come in for a coffee, to catch up with a friend or the baked goods – everyone’s invited to sit back and enjoy the buzz of the jazz music and welcoming atmosphere. Combining great coffee with good vibes, AU79 is a local Bronte favourite!

au79coffee.ca | 2464 Lakeshore Rd W #4, Oakville/Bronte

Detour Cafe

Featuring fresh roasts and a wide variety of food items, Detour Cafe in both Downtown Dundas & Hamilton is the perfect place to relax and recharge. Also featuring a lovely patio for the warmer months & delicious homemade sourdough bread & pastries from Dear Grain Bakery for dining-in and take-out!

detourcoffee.com | 41 King St W, Dundas

Lola Choco Bar & Sweethouse

Lola’s is a charming dessert & coffee bar located in Village Square, Burlington. Featuring their exclusive one-of-a-kind drinking chocolate, a wide variety of coffees, tea’s & tasty treats, Lola’s is a hidden gem with a European flare just waiting for you to try!

instagram.com/lolachocobar | 23 Elizabeth St Unit 13, Burlington

The Pearle Cafe

Located inside the Pearle Hotel & Spa sitting on Burlington’s beautiful waterfront, the Pearle Cafe is a local & tourists favourite! Perfect for grabbing a light lunch or meeting friends for an afternoon pick-me-up!

thepearlehotel.ca | 3 Elizabeth St, Burlington

Peach Coffee Co

With locations in Bronte, Burlington & the Hamilton area, Peach Coffee Co has cozy vibes like no other! Offering a welcoming space to reconnect with friends, delicious freshly roasted coffee, baked goods and uplifting messages on their lids, Peach Coffee is a cherished local favourite!

peachcoffeeco.com | 297 Dundas Street East, Waterdown

Tribeca Coffee

Founded in 2016, Tribeca Coffee serves nothing but the best high quality beans paired with a hip New York vibe. With two locations in Downtown Oakville & Burlington, get ready to cheers to great coffee and quality time!

www.tribecacoffeeco.ca | 174 Lakeshore Rd E, Oakville

Vereda Central Coffee Roasters

Vereda Central is a trade café & coffee roasting company committed to brewing the freshest #croptocup coffee! They source their beans directly from a network of famers in Colombia with no middleman involved! Roasted in house, the Vereda way, come out and try their delicious roasts or a bag of their speciality beans at any of their 5 locations!

www.veredacentral.ca | 310 Kerr St, Oakville

These are simply just a few of the incredible local coffee shops you can try this season! So beat the winter blues, grab a friend and reconnect with your local community!

By Trinity Paton

This March, Visit Oakville invites visitors to experience winter fun and the charm  of the town. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or family-friendly  activities, Oakville has something for everyone. From a classic maple syrup festival to engaging  downtown activations and Oakville’s favourite culinary event, Oakville is the perfect destination  for a memorable day trip or weekend getaway.

“Oakville truly shines during March and the school break, offering a variety of unique  experiences for visitors and families,” said Rebecca Edgar, Executive Director, Visit Oakville.  “Whether you’re coming for the sweet maple treats, downtown’s boutique shopping, delicious  dining, and exciting family events or great kid’s programs, Oakville welcomes you!”

Here are Oakville’s top must-see and do experiences for March:

Taste of Oakville On until March 10 – Indulge in delicious prix fixe menus from over  50 amazing restaurants from across Oakville starting at just $20 for lunch and $30 for  dinner!

Bronte Ice Notes March 1, 3:00-5:00 p.m. – Get ready to dance-off your winter blues at the first-ever Bronte Lake Notes, a free outdoor concert featuring local favourite Fiddlestix at Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park. Don’t forget to dress warm and bring your  best moves!

Maple Syrup Festival – March 1 & 2, 8-16, 22 & 23, 29 & 30 – Experience one of  Ontario’s sweetest traditions at Bronte Creek Provincial Park’s Maple Syrup Festival.  Running during March Break and every weekend in March, this beloved annual event  offers a fun and educational look at how maple syrup is made. Families can explore the  park’s historic Spruce Lane Farmhouse, enjoy wagon rides and of course taste delicious  pancakes topped with fresh maple syrup.

Downtown Oakville’s GLODTO/e/Motion – March 1-24 – For most of March,  downtown Oakville will be transformed by the vibrant and interactive GLODTO/e/Motion  installation in Towne Square. This dazzling display invites visitors to immerse  themselves in a unique art experience combining light, movement, and community spirit. Sea-saw your way through this one-of-a-kind experience! Tip – Spend the afternoon  shopping, strolling the lakefront and stop for lunch or dinner at any of the amazing  downtown restaurants.

Oakville Museum’s March Break Craft and Tour – March 11-13 at 1:30 p.m. and 3:00  p.m. – Step back in time with the Oakville Museum’s special March Break craft workshop  and enjoy a guided tour offering a glimpse into Oakville’s rich history. (Ages 4-12 plus  adults).

St. Patrick’s Day – On March 17, raise a glass and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at one of Oakville’s many lively venues such as The Firehall, The King’s Arms, The Queen’s  Head, Harper’s Landing or The Oakville Pump & Patio where you’ll find festive drinks,  and an unforgettable atmosphere!

Experience the Outdoors with a Nature Walk – Get the kids outside and active with a  walk at an Oakville park, trail or garden. Whether you bring the family for a scenic  lakeside walk, explore local history at one of Oakville’s heritage trails or simply peruse  one of our picturesque gardens, you’re sure to fall in love with Oakville’s outdoor  offerings. The trails are also great to cross-country ski or snowshoe as well. 

Additional March Family Fun:

iFly Oakville: The whole family can explore their adventurous side with indoor skydiving
at iFly!
Slime workshop with Duran Place for Kids: On March 11, join in with Duran Place for
Kids and enjoy step by step instruction and all the materials provided to make your own
take home bag of fluffy slime.
Dave & Buster’s Oakville: Play arcade games and enjoy classic bites.
Lollipop Art Lounge: Spend the day crafting and creating.
Aerosports Oakville: Bounce your way through trampoline fun.
Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts: There are two shows of Jim Henson’s
Fraggle Rock. (Running March 12 at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.)
Playlicious: Super fun indoor playground with climbing walls to slides, ball pits, and
obstacle courses.
Crack Pot Studio: Paint some pottery or try your hand at the pottery wheel. Various
classes/times and drop-in sessions.
The Ranch: Take a trail ride in Oakville and find out why the view from the saddle is the
best view in the world!

Looking for a place to stay in Oakville? With so many great hotel options to choose from, finding  the perfect place to stay is easy. Explore our accommodations and book your stay today to  experience the best of Oakville during March!

About Visit Oakville: 

Visit Oakville is an incorporated, not-for-profit, destination marketing organization (DMO). It is  led by a volunteer Board of Directors representing the community. Visit Oakville aims to drive  economic impact through marketing and partnerships, curating visitor experiences and  advocating on behalf of Oakville’s tourism industry.

For more information, please contact: 

Christa Poole 
Visit Oakville 
christa.poole@visitoakville.com

Oakville based fashion designer Sarah Haunts of the label HAUNTS Fashion will be showing her 10th and latest collection of women’s evening wear on May 9th in Hamilton. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to MS Canada, a cause dear to the designer’s heart.

The fashion show is taking place at The Spice Factory, a historic building in Hamilton, ON. Built in 1889 and recently restored, the venue is the perfect backdrop for an evening of glamour. Guests’ tickets include a complimentary glass of bubbly upon arriving, and a red-carpet photo opportunity before the show begins. After the runway show has concluded, cash bar will be available to continue the festivities.

The evening is dedicated to Judy, a close family friend of the designer, who passed away due to complications from MS.

Sarah Haunts is looking forward to showcasing her latest collection of handmade couture pieces. “With this being the 10th collection, we wanted to really celebrate this milestone and bring the community together for an evening of fashion and fun. My clothing is inspired by an intense joy found in life and in my craft, and I really see that optimism translating to the designs.” Think bold colours and prints inspiring playful and sophisticated pieces of clothing, for women who are not afraid of dressing up and standing out.

The designer has previously showcased at Fashion Art Toronto and Supercrawl in Hamilton. April’s show will be her first self-produced event. In 2019, Haunts won the Canada-wide Cashmere Collection design competition, where she created an evening gown out of bathroom tissue, in support of breast cancer research.

Tickets will go on sale on March 10th.

Purchase early to take advantage of early bird pricing. You can follow HAUNTS Fashion on Instagram @haunts_fashion and visit hauntsfashion.com to view the designer’s work and sign up for the mailing list to stay abreast of event updates. Sarah Haunts can be reach by email at info@hauntsfashion.com

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and whether you’re celebrating with a partner, a friend, or treating yourself, finding the perfect gift can sometimes feel like a challenge. In this gift guide, we’ve rounded up the best local treasures from unique artisans, charming boutiques, and florals to help you find the perfect gift!

SIMPLY GIFTED

Looking for something unique? Meet the Everlasting Candle, a luxurious and reusable steel candle that never melts and delivers a clean-burning, smoke-free and scent free ambience

491 Brant St, Burlington, simplygifted.ca


INSIDE STORY

Perfect for a fun night of lounging, this romper has soft fabric and a perfect ruby red colour, combining comfort and style. Feminine and flirty! Available at
Inside Story in Downtown Oakville.

34 Church St, Oakville, insidestory.ca

THE FLORAL COLLECTIVE

Say I love you all year long with this adorable Heart Hoya. With a little TLC, this hardy succulent will last for years and may even reward you with a bloom of flowers if you look after it carefully.

 335 Kerr St, Oakville, thefloralcollectiveinc.com

LINEA INTIMA

Unwind in cozy elegance this Valentine’s Day with our heart- print nightwear—designed for women who embrace both relaxation and style.

196 Lakeshore Rd E, Oakville, lineaintima.ca

WOVEN

Perfect for relaxing at home, these cozy slippers make the perfect gift. Treat yourself or your loved ones to a touch of luxury with these heart slippers from Woven. Available in-store or online

2049 Pine St Unit 9U, Burlington, shopwoven.ca

THE DIAMOND BOUTIQUE

A little bling on Valentine’s Day is always a good idea. Find this unique bracelet among many others at The Diamond Boutique in Stoney Creek.

7 King St E Unit 2, Stoney Creek, thediamondboutique.ca

OAKVILLE Visit Oakville is thrilled to announce the return of Taste of Oakville from February  17 to March 10, 2025. This highly anticipated culinary event will feature over fifty incredible  restaurants from across Oakville, offering prix fixe menus priced from $20-35 for lunch and $30- 75 for dinner. 

New to this year’s edition is Hexagon Restaurant, fresh off earning a prestigious MICHELIN Star  – one of only 15 stars in Ontario. Hexagon’s Chef Rafael Covarrubias, who recently received  the MICHELIN Guide Toronto 2024 Young Chef Award, will showcase his extraordinary talents  during Taste of Oakville for one night a week. For a limited time, Hexagon will open its doors on  Tuesday nights only from 5:00 p.m. offering a special Taste of Oakville dinner menu priced at  $100. Reservations for this unique dining experience can be made starting January 20 here.

“Taste of Oakville continues to grow and shine a spotlight on the amazing culinary scene here in  town,” said Rebecca Edgar, Executive Director, Visit Oakville, the organization behind Taste.  “We’re excited to welcome new restaurants, including Hexagon, as well as our returning  favourites and invite everyone to explore the diverse and exceptional flavours Oakville has to  offer.” 

In addition to Hexagon, exciting new restaurants joining Taste of Oakville this year includeBaton Rouge Oakville, Blk Swan Kitchen Hub, Bo.Vine Burgers & Bar, Burger Theory, Color EatD Spot Dessert Café, The Gingerman Social Eatery, Grande Burrito, Hoseki Sushi, LokmaMarine Tavern, Milestones, Mrakovic Fine Foods, Pizza Pizza, 7 Enoteca, Sultan Ahmet Turkish Cuisine, Sweet! Bakery, Verace Italian Restaurant, Vereda Central, and XII Old Fashioned  Restaurant.

Additional returning restaurants include: Beacon, Borgo Antico Cucina Bar, Buca Di Bacco, The  Boot Social Pizzeria, Ce Soir Brasserie + Bar, Chocolato and Tommy Café, Colossus Greek  Taverna, Community, Coriander Green, The Crepe Kitchen, Easy on Fourth, El Spero Family Restaurant, French Lunch, Fresh Kitchen + Juice Bar, Harper’s Landing, Irie Cuisine, J.A.C.’s  Bistro, The King’s Arms, Laylak, Mary’s Muffins, Maverick’s Donut Company, Mercato SocialeThe Mermaid and the Oyster, Nyla’s Room, Oakville Fish and Chips, Odd Burger, Paradiso, Piano Piano, Puckz Pub, Ritorno, Second Cup, Simple Kitchen, STACK BBQ Smokehouse, Sugar Suite, The Sweetest Thing Bakery, and Zara’s On Wheels.

Tunesdays: 

For the third consecutive year, Taste of Oakville will feature live music by talented local  entertainers on Tuesday evenings. This year, nine restaurants including Buca Di Bacco, Burger  Theory, Community Resto, Coriander Green, Harpers Landing, Laylak Oakville, Paradiso, Ritorno, and STACK BBQ Smokehouse – will host live performances during the event on  February 18, 25 and March 4 from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Visit here for more details. 

Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, a weekend getaway or a visit from out of town, Taste of Oakville is the perfect reason to explore the town and its vibrant food scene. To find  great accommodation options during your stay visit here

Watch the Taste of Oakville website throughout January to view each restaurant’s exclusive menus. 

If you are a restaurant owner interested in participating in Taste, please email  tasteofoakville@visitoakville.com.  

For more details on these and other upcoming events, please visit our website:  www.visitoakville.com/events.

About Visit Oakville

Visit Oakville is an incorporated, not-for-profit, destination marketing organization (DMO). It is  led by a volunteer Board of Directors representing the community. Visit Oakville aims to drive  economic impact through marketing and partnerships, curating visitor experiences and  advocating on behalf of Oakville’s tourism industry. 

For more information, please contact: 

Christa Poole 
Visit Oakville
christa.poole@visitoakville.com

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

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

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

In the tale my parents spin about the “good old days,” people often moved in with their elderly parents to care for them. In my parents’ case they lived with my paternal grandfather, and later with my maternal grandmother, acting as primary caregivers until their parents’ deaths. This arrangement was only feasible because my hard-working and very loving mom was willing to take on this role.

As people in Ontario live longer (Statistics Canada, 2019, reports that women live an average of 84 years, and men 80) systems of eldercare are becoming increasingly complex to navigate. Aging in place, as my grandparents chose to do, is an attractive choice for many, and services in our community can help. For people who are done with the responsibilities of home ownership, there are a multitude of retirement residences, ranging from intimate homes to establishments resembling five-star hotels.

For those wanting to remain in their own homes, Bayshore Home Health offers services such as personal support care, nursing, housekeeping, transportation, Dementia and Alzheimer’s care, and kinesiology and physiotherapy services. “Our older adults want to age in place,” says Laura Peresan, Director of Growth and Operations, GTA West, Bayshore Home Health. “Home is where they are most comfortable and often where they want to continue with their life journey.”

Peresan has found that most older adults prefer a one-stop option. Seniors in the Halton region have access to everything from nursing, to support with showers and house cleaning, all the way to end of life palliative care.

Caring for an elderly parent in their home has many positives, such as the ability to strengthen family bonds, reduce stress for your loved one, and work with an organization to create specific support. There are also drawbacks. As my mom discovered when she was a primary caregiver, the role can be a physical and emotional strain. Caregivers often burn out, and family relationships can be fractured if one person takes on more of the care duties.

An option for many families is to find a suitable retirement residence for their loved one. Michelle Ferrara is Community Relations Manager at Queens Avenue Retirement Home, a family-oriented residence in Oakville.

Independent Seniors Apartments

LIVITA QUEENS AVENUE is a retirement community, located in a quiet residential Oakville neighbourhood, offering independent seniors suites with full kitchens, living rooms, bed and bath. Monthly rates are very competitive.

Picture yourself in an apartment with full kitchen, multiple closets, large suites and big bright windows. The utilities are included and underground parking is available. Meet new friends as you enjoy the beautiful outdoor space, amenities, activities and entertainment that make Livita Queens home. Options are available for meal plans and housekeeping. Emergency care is always accessible. Enjoy, relax and feel safe and secure.

When it comes to finding the right fit, Ferrara offers these insights:

Be realistic.
Does the residence provide what your loved one needs, now and with a view to the future?

Have paperwork and information at hand.
Do your research and bring questions to the tour or meeting

What is the general vibe you feel when walking around the residence?
Are the staff friendly and smiling? Do the residents seem happy, active and engaged?

Will the residence work financially for the long term?
If your loved one’s health declines, will another move be necessary?

Retirement residences offer peace of mind, professional care, increased safety and security, set activities, and a clear cost structure to help you budget. They are also, however, a huge shift for residents and their families. For one thing, residents might feel a loss of independence as they adjust to a new environment and new routines. As Kim Routledge, Sales and Leasing Manager at Oakville’s Vistamere Retirement Residence explains, working together will aid the transition.

“Leaving a long-time home can evoke feelings of grief and nostalgia,” Routledge says. “It  is vital for caregivers to acknowledge and support these emotions. Initially, residents may feel isolated in a new community. Caregivers can facilitate social interaction by introducing them to other residents and encouraging participation in group activities.”

When deciding whether your loved one will live at home or in a retirement residence, it is crucial to have frank discussions and not wait until there’s a crisis situation. A little planning now will make future transitions much easier for you and your family.

LOCAL LINKS

Bayshore Home Health
bayshore.ca

Halton Region Services for Older Adults
halton.ca/For-Residents/Older-Adults

Heritage Place Retirement Residence,
Burlington
heritage-place.ca

LaSalle Park Retirement
Community, Burlington
lasalleparkretirement.com

Qualicare Home Care,
Burlington
qualicare.com

Queens Avenue Retirement Home,
Oakville
livinglivita.com/oakville

The Ontario Caregiver
Organization
ontariocaregiver.ca

Vistamere Retirement Residence,
Oakville
vistamere.ca

Viva Retirement Residence,
Oakville
vivaoakville.ca

BY CYNDI INGLE