Current Entries December 31, 2009. New Year's Eve dinners at: Calvin's Bistro (early and late sittings), Rock Salt Cafe in Fulford. Also, Harry Manx's Fulford Hall New Year's Eve party...tickets required. Check out other venues.. Harbour House Hotel (New Year‘s Eve Winemaker‘s Dinner…5 courses, paired with Garry Oaks wines), Moby's (fancy dress party with Son de Cuba music…tickets needed), Fulford Inn (special dinner menu and dancing with Dale and Dave)....enjoy! Kudos to David Gullason, who has brought his Ice Pilots NWT to History Television...Wednesdays, 7 and 10 p.m. Islanders involved in helping bring this to fruition: Wayne Melvin, Leigh Badgley, and Al Flett. Such talent on this Island! Noticed in U.B.C.'s Chronicle that Salt Spring's rich visual history has been digitized, with the help of a grant to the Historical Society. Photos of local events, people and ceremonies, from Salt Spring, along with aerial photos from years past, will soon be available for viewing online. Salt Spring, along with Oak Bay in Victoria, is going to be a part of a pilot program encouraging homeowners to disclose their homes energy efficiency rating. Owners who participate in the voluntary program will allow their homes energy rating to be posted on the Victoria Board Multiple Listing Service, providing additional information to prospective buyers. The program aims at making homes more energy-efficient, thus helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Participants will benefit from rebates. "The internet is this vast sea of free content. What used to be the domain of magazines is already there" (quoted in a recent Globe and Mail newspaper article on the demise of magazines). It's true that print media is no longer the place to market listings or deliver information about an area. Specialty magazines, very niche oriented, that have a shelf life (perhaps like the annual Gulf Islander, for Salt Spring and the Gulf Islands), may survive, but the traditional magazine and print formats are disappearing quickly. This is one reason why I am happy to be a part of the Driftwood's web presence, for advertising, and am only using a small section of their monthly print format real estate supplement, now....all those endless pages of ads did not help a seller to sell, so the expense was wasted. This is not how buyers locate information today, and the search has to happen first, before the physicality on Island can take place. Thus, I am spending my hard earned marketing dollars in venues that "work", in delivering the mainly non-local buyer's interest to the seller's consideration. More info? Give me a call! I found the recent coverage of a B.C. Ferry comment, in a Victoria newspaper, interesting. The ferry person was stating that the reason fares were rising was because of the Islands Trust's cap on growth, which made it difficult for first time buyers to locate on the Island, and the retirement age group didn't use the ferries so often, thus there was a reduction in ridership (something along that line). This was picked up by our own Driftwood weekly paper, and the Trust was quoted, in response, as follows: "Trust policies have contributed to higher house prices....". Not sure that I've noticed, before, that the Trust recognized (in print) that their strict zoning bylaws, which control growth, and preserve the environmental beauties of the Islands, do have the outcome of creating an enclave area, with higher house prices. It's just simple economics: low supply plus high demand equals high price points. One does have to be able to afford to live on Salt Spring Island and on the Southern Gulf Islands, this is true. The Trust's mandate is to "preserve and protect", for the benefit of all B.C. residents, the environmental beauties of the Gulf Islands. With the advent of the internet, which erased time and geography, this entire Pacific Northwest Coast region has been "discovered", and the Gulf Islands will remain as specialty areas to reside in. What did that cow say in the film "Babe": "that's just the way things are"??? There is a moment in time, right now, though, to benefit from historically low interest rates, to enjoy substantial price reductions post market meltdowns, of late 2008, and with a higher selection of inventory available for a Buyer's consideration, than in most years. More info? Give me a call! Look forward to helping you to benefit from today's market conditions, so that you can enjoy ownership on one of these stellar Islands! It's buyers that set markets, remember, not sellers or realtors, and so these current conditions are not going to remain "forever". It's a cyclical industry. Right now, the buyer is in control of the process. 2009 has been a roller-coaster year, for many Islanders, and many others in our "global village". There is a feeling of optimism, however, even though there are still serious economic issues facing most countries, most communities, as we stand ready to enter the next decade. Some are calling the past decade the "awful oughts". On this night, where there is an ending of a year, and an entering of a New Year, perhaps remember the Scottish tradition: have a clean house, be festive, welcome family, friends and neighbours, have that dark haired man set up to be the "first foot" in the "new year", and welcome in the new possibilities with the "attitude of gratitude". We have much to be thankful for, on special Salt Spring Island! Enjoy.... December 30, 2009. "Let no pleasure tempt thee, no profit allure thee, no ambition compel thee, no example sway thee, no persuasion move thee to do anything which thou knowest to be evil, so shalt thou always live jollily, for a good conscience is a continual Christmas." (Benjamin Franklin) December 29, 2009. "Why yearn for a promised land? The true land is in the heart." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations") December 28, 2009. As the year closes, it's good to remember all the very fine things that are in our lives, and to remember to practice what is often referred to as "the attitude of gratitude". In this economic downturn, there have been serious dislocations in many lives. For some, ill health has been in the picture. Life delivers gifts and blows, it seems, with equal abandon, and often both are totally unexpected. There are always things to be grateful for, even in the midst of trouble and strife. Without being a "pollyanna" about it, it's so important to focus on the strengths and the good things...to make sure that our thoughts are keeping to this sunnier focus. As we think, we receive...it seems to be a truth of the universe. It doesn't hurt, at this time of year, to write down all the good things we can think about, and to ponder on them. We write down our New Year resolutions, too, don't we? Gratitude, and a written note to ourselves about opportunities in the New Year...it's an invitation to our better and creative selves. And your list says? December 27, 2009. Here's a treasure of a retreat cottage/home...the best of that Coastal Living lifestyle ethic, and it's in a very premier location on special Salt Spring Island! Two bedroom home, beside the seaside, with spacious decking and patio areas, to expand summer living pleasures! English Country garden, easy care and very private! Sunny (s/sw/w exposures), easy access sandstone shoreline (warm ocean swimming, here, too!), plus sunsets to savour. The plus? Separate guest/studio. Dramatic ocean vistas, private and quiet area, yet close to all amenities/services (golf, theatre, galleries, restaurants, specialty shops, ferries...yet in its own charming world). Truly, one of the very best oceanfront opportunities on a stellar Gulf Island. December 26, 2009. "Seven geese pierce straight line over frigid bay, Intervals between them constantly equal, Pointed wings slash as if joined to an axle: Today is the ideal moment between yesterday and tomorrow." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations") December 25, 2009. Merry Christmas! December 24, 2009. "You breathe, Frosting mountains white, Exciting trees to verdant flame, Dancing sparrows on your wing, Swirling waves into long sighs. You breathe, And all things live." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations") December 23, 2009. Last minute special items, for your Christmas Gift List? Drop into Frankly Scarlett, J. Mitchell Gallery, Steffich Fine Art Gallery, Starfish Gallery, and to Upstairs Bears, in Grace Point Square. Martinus Gems on Seaview Avenue, Salt Spring Fine Art Gallery on McPhillips Avenue, ArtSpring Gallery, Houseboat on Hereford Avenue, Salty Shop and Mouat's Clothing, Boardwalk Greens, Pegasus Gallery on the Boardwalk. Don't forget Salt Spring Woodworks, at the corner of Upper Ganges and Churchill Roads! Something chocolate: from Harlan's, or from Chocolate Beach chocolatier. Incredible pastries from Brigitte, at Rendezvous Cafe...including the Yule Log, a traditional French dessert. Gift Certificates from the many fine restaurants in town: Piccolo's, Calvin's Bistro, Bocados Bistro, Auntie Pesto's, Harbour House Hotel, Treehouse Cafe, Rock Salt Cafe, Bruce's Kitchen, Salt Spring Inn, Marketplace Cafe....aren't we lucky, so many choices! The gift of discovery, through a book: Watermark Books, Volume 2, Salt Spring Books..... Salt Spring Soap Works, Salt Spring Roasting Company coffee, deli delights from Country Grocer or Thrifty's (gift packaged!). Remember the Food Bank, too, with donations. Spa retreats...hair salon gift certificates...don't forget the personal studios dotting the Island...treasures here, too. Shopping local finds many treasures, usually of a unique and "one off" nature, and helps our friends and neighbours in business, too. It's a circle.... Remember to enjoy a cappucino or a latte or a reviving cup of tea...take time for yourself, at this busy time of year. December 22, 2009. Where are you? Your dock is waiting! Prestigious Scott Point location, sunny (s/sw/w), with exceptional panoramic oceanviews, this waterfront property enjoys privacy, too. Currently, a panabode cottage/home, plus double garage, is on site (rented...good tenants would stay, if desired). This dwelling is at one edge of the property, so is not on the prime building site....live in it while you build your dream, closer to the ocean, and create decking that would flow into the two oceanside decks that currently connect with this superior dock structure. Property is in "natural state", awaiting your ideas! A very best buy for exceptional oceanfront, on special Salt Spring Island! December 21, 2009. Catch Roderick Shoolbraid's latest work at Salt Spring Roasting Company...show continues through to end of the month. Tonight, it's the Community Sing-a-long at ArtSpring...admission is free, but donations to the Food Bank are welcome. Arthur Black, Lost Chords, Campanola Brass, & Vaughan Fulford join the audience for an evening of music, stories and lots of opportunities to share favourite carols. See you there! (Starts at 7 p.m.). Have you dropped into Upstairs Bears in Grace Point Square? Enjoy the Teddy Bear shop...new, antique, one of a kind, collector's items... they're all gems. Remember the need, in this economic downturn time, and gift the Food Bank, Copper Kettle, the SPCA, the Wildlife Centre, and the Salvation Army...all good causes! Every little bit helps out, and just choose your preferred recipient...it's the season of sharing.... Christmas is fast approaching. It is a time to be calm, to enjoy time with one's nearest and dearest, and, if that's not possible, to share with those others who may find themselves on their own, this Christmas season. It can be a gift to recreate a Christmas tradition, when the old ones no longer "fit". Going out to dinner? The Harbour House Hotel is offering traditional Christmas Dinner on the 25th, & check out Rock Salt Cafe, too, in Fulford Village. Christmas Eve dinner at Calvin's Bistro! I love the French tradition of Reveillon, with the feast on Christmas Eve (looking for a Yule Log? Call Brigitte, at Rendezvous Cafe, for the authentic French version!). The English celebrate the Twelve Days of Christmas...the tree goes up on Christmas Eve, and comes down on Twelfth Night (January 6th). Each tradition holds its own special charm...with a Scottish background, New Year's is "the" thing! Still looking for gifts? Lots of treasures below $20 can be found: Windflower Moon, Frankly Scarlett, Starfish Gallery, Salt Spring Soap Works, Houseboat, Salt Spring Books, Volume 2, Watermark Books, gift certificates at Salt Spring Roasting Company, at Cafe Talia, at Rendezvous Cafe, at Calvin's Bistro, at Harbour House Hotel, at Salt Spring Inn, at T.J. Beans, at Rock Salt Cafe....good food, good company, good cheer! Catch the Alistair Simm version of A Christmas Carol, or Jimmy Stewart in It's a Wonderful Life, on t.v. Enjoy carols and seasonal music.... It's the Christmas Season, with its message of Love, Joy, Hope, and Peace. Enjoy! December 20, 2009. Today is the fourth Sunday in the Advent Season, the season of preparation and expectancy in the Christian calendar. One lights a candle for each of the Sundays preceding Christmas Day: the four candles celebrate Love, Joy, Hope, and Peace. Today, is the candle for Peace. Regardless of one's personal spiritual belief system, there are many aspects of all traditions that are good to explore. I find that the Advent moment is a time to reflect on the meanings of those words. Language can obscure as well as illuminate, and it does no harm at all to consider what Love really means, or what Joy expresses, or what Hope might offer....as for Peace, it is a word that is bandied about, on many occasions, and so it is essential perhaps to truly meditate on the qualities of Peace, and what we can do to individually bring this state of mind about. Individuals effect change. Look at Ghandi, who was thrown off a train, in South Africa, and who then went on to preach non-violence as the route to change, and the importance of each individual exemplifying this change...in the end, his philosophy helped to create the modern country of India. Nelson Mandela followed Ghandi's precepts many years later, and ended up helping to create the modern South Africa. Peace...it is up to each of us, as individuals, to model this concept into reality in our own lives. The larger world mimics what we do as individuals, I think, and it seems that some of the new ideas in physics now point to this. We, each of us, on our own, affect our world. Peace...today, I light this final candle of the Advent Season, and ponder.... December 19, 2009. Superb home, "brand new", wonderful finishing choices and stellar design, and with a wrap around ocean, islands, mountains viewscape. Sunrises and sunsets, here! The home enjoys the entire panorama of the Southern Gulf Islands, and the Lower Mainland Coast Mountains, plus Mt. Baker's majesty...expansive decking and patio areas amplify summer living pleasures! Cherry floors plus concrete flooring with a copper hue, radiant infloor heating, dramatic stone feature fireplace in living, custom windows that open completely to the view deck, barbecue and entertainment area on decking for easy entertaining, custom windows and door treatments, a light filled equisite space.... Dream kitchen, spacious pantry with mudroom entry, entertainment dining, dramatic living...many unique features that must be seen! Wonderful master "wing", with exercise area off, plus super ensuite bath (you will love the shower!), with window wall that opens onto the hot tub, on the deck beyond....a powder room of stone and glass, off formal entry foyer. Garden level offers gallery space for those special paintings and objets, plus engaging guest bed and bath, media room, craft/storage area, plus terrific office (could also be a third guest bedroom). Easy access out to patio area from all principal rooms. Totally private, in a very quiet area of fine homes, close to all amenities and services, yet in its own serene "world apart". All day sun exposure...morning coffee on your deck and sunsets on your patio...plus six private acres to develop as you wish. A mini-vineyard? Olives? Your own hiking/walking trails? It's all here...bring your dream to fruition. Amazing and dramatic main entry, with ponds and a whimsical sense of inner and outer unity...this is the very best of the "West Coast Contemporary" ethic, and it's ready to just move into and to enjoy! Close to lakes and to ocean beaches, and to floatplane or ferry service to Vancouver Island/Victoria or to the Vancouver/Lower Mainland areas. So beautiful...and it could be yours! December 18, 2009. The Child Honouring Centre, the dream of Raffi Cavoukian for several years, is springing into fruition, on special Salt Spring Island. Check out www.raffinews.com for updates on the progress of the Centre's opening. Child Honouring is Raffi's way of expressing his desire to see a new paradigm for the entire globe...it is based on his perception that the early years are the most important, that early childhood education is the gateway to becoming a fulfilled human being, acting at optimum positive expression, and that it also shapes core intelligence. Raffi's concern is that planetary degredation has accelerated in scope and scale, endangering the very young, and this is an emergency that requires a remedy of equal scale. Raffi's vision is for a systemic response to detoxify the personal, cultural and planetary environments of the child, throughout the world. His Spirit of One Campaign is the fundraising side to the Centre...it's focused on a single goal: to establish a Centre for Child Honouring on Salt Spring Island, by January 2010. Recently, an inspired property owner has placed a 22 acre oceanfront farm at the disposal of the Centre...the home's design offers large spaces for seminars, and rooms that are easily reconfigured into office spaces and small meeting rooms. There is also a guest cottage for speakers at seminars, and a studio plus office, plus a large barn. A very serene property, with creek and pond, and a magical forest walk to the sea, this is an idyllic place to bring forth Raffi's vision .... Raffi's concept of Child Honouring is that it offers a central organizing principle for societal change...a systems shift for building healthy and sustainable cultures. Raffi's call to interested parties is to donate 1% of annual revenue, of individual or privately held businesses, to the Centre. Thus, the Spirit of One Campaign. More details? Connect with www.raffinews.com and see how you can be involved, and what you can do to help to create a dynamic and viable Centre. As Raffi sings, in one of his recent CD releases: "it takes a Village to raise a child". All of us are involved in this moment to save our planet...to start with a child is to start at the beginning of life's process. Check it out! December 17, 2009. This coming Sunday is the last Sunday in the Advent season. Advent has an air of expectancy about it, and is seen as a time of preparation. In lighting a candle for each Sunday, which offers up a different "theme" for one to ponder and meditate upon, one arrives at four candles, and the fifth, for Christmas Day, all of them lighting one's world at this dark time of year. The four candles of Advent are: LOVE, JOY, HOPE, PEACE. This Sunday, in lighting the candle of PEACE, it is good to enlarge our thought from our personal spaces, our "nearest and dearest", and into the larger community of the world. In this internet age, which has delivered what Marshall McLuhan foresaw, back in the 60s, that we are now a "global village", our individual thought can affect the entire planet. PEACE is the message for this Sunday, the last in the Advent celebration. It is perhaps the most powerful....remember, there is no "them", only "us". If not "us", then "who"? December 16, 2009. Looking for undeveloped land, 40 + acres, privacy, sunny, off the grid opportunity, with ocean and mountain vistas? This very appealing land parcel enjoys coastal forest (cedar, fir, hemlock, alder, maple) and also offers the garry oak/arbutus groves, with rocky mossy outcroppings, that are quintessentially a "gulf island" landscape expectation. Drilled well developed, hiking trails, shared driveway access off main road (easement on title), and a wonderfully "natural" experience of land, trees, sky, ocean vistas...it rests the soul. Close to Mill Farm Park, with its old growth and first growth preserved forest, and to Musgrave Landing (keep a boat, here?), and approximately 25 minutes back to Fulford Village and to the ferry to Victoria. Quiet, "apart", yes....isolated?...no. Close to several hiking/walking trails that network this "south" part of the Island....a naturalist's treasure! Call me, for appointments to view. December 15, 2009. "One side of a ridge is cold and foggy. The other is hot and dry. Just by choosing where you stand, You alter your destiny." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations") December 14, 2009. Serene Mayne Island shimmers in the Southern Gulf Islands grouping....Mayne Island was once the key island in the gathering of Southern Gulf Islands. Miner's Bay was a collecting area for miners on their way to the gold fields of the Yukon, in that last great "gold rush" fever, at the end of the 19th Century. Might be hard to believe, today, as one wends the quiet country roads on this easy to reach, yet very undiscovered Island. This property is a gem...offering calm enjoyment, vistas over fields towards the sea, proximity to Bennett Bay's sandy beach, and a short bike ride to the tiny "commercial core" around Miner's Bay. It has another huge "plus"....it's has zoning that allows for a country inn. This property was once home to a popular country inn and restaurant. The current owner, from the entertainment world, just wanted a serene place to regroup, and to enjoy friends visiting. Perfect as a family retreat, or for a professional couple working from home, or as a very pleasing B & B or "country inn" opportunity, this beauty offers lots of options for the new owner. Fenced organic veggie garden & orchard, forest preserve with your own walking trails, herb garden, three unique and separate guest self-contained spaces, plus spacious main home. Natural finishes, a wonderful "woodsy" west coast design ethic, and everything in "ready to move in" condition. A true opportunity, here, whether it's as a seasonal retreat property, or as a year round lifestyle choice. Call me, for viewings/details. Decermber 13, 2009. In a recent U.S. Time Magazine article (the Canadian version was shut down back in the early Fall, remember...going the way of a lot of print publications), the focus was on a new consumer responsibility. In a purchase, the choice now tends to be "for the good". Ethics is a growing concern of corporations, as they understand that consumer perception of them, & what they stand for, will affect their bottom line. It may be, then, that the outcome of the economic meltdowns, which had their beginnings in the spendthrift mentality of the early 2000s, will be a more selective consumer profile. This is occurring at the same time as the "green revolution" in home design/construction techniques has become mainstream, and therefore a necessity not a "frill". It's also occurring at a time where the internet has created a consumer in control mode of all processes...whether it's in business, or in the media, or in any information dissemination, including politics. There is no "expert" voice...we are all in this together, evenly weighted, and therefore any one of us is able to be the individual that sets the 21st Century ethic firmly on its path. Hmmm...that is an incredible shift from macro/generalist/group-think to micro/niche/individual responsibility. So, there really is no "them", only "us"? Have to think this through! Meantime, am lighting the third candle for the Advent season...the candle of HOPE. Something we could all ponder.... December 12, 2009. Try to catch Santa's arrival, tonight, on the Lions Christmas Ship...7 p.m. at the Coast Guard dock area. This has been an annual event for several years, now, with the Santa Ship starting in Bellingham, I believe, and going to some of the San Juan Islands, and then crossing to the adjacent Southern Gulf Islands, ending up with Salt Spring Island as the final stop. As the ship, all decorated with lights, floats down the Harbour, it plays carols and seasonal music, and also lets off fireworks. I discovered this by accident, a couple of years ago, when I left the office later than usual, and could see fireworks in a very clear sky -- it was crisp and clear, that night. I wandered down to the dock area, with a lot of other purposeful people, and had a wonderful time welcoming Santa to the Island. It's for the "kid" in all of us! One year, it was very foggy, so couldn't see the fireworks, but this year appears to be high cloud, and it should be warmer than the past couple of days. Give yourself a treat, and be at the Harbour...Santa steps ashore at 7 p.m., goes off to the Elementary School, and also to Greenwoods and to the Lady Minto Hospital. He's busy! Wave, if you see me! I wandered through several of our eclectic and inviting retail stores, in Ganges Village, and to Mahon Hall to take in Wintercraft, on a quest for the gift below $20. This is a benchmark in my family, now, as we give to charity, in the name of a family member, in lieu of a big gift. (Locally, the Food Bank, Copper Kettle, SPCA, Wildlife Rescue Centre all need our help, and the Salvation Army and the B.C. Children's Hospital are two other good ideas for gifting. Several Island families have needed the specialized care of the B.C. Children's Hospital, and so, in a way, this is also a "local charity". The need is great, at this time of year....). I found lots of great gift ideas, and you might want to consider browsing locally, too, to help support our friends and neighbours who are in business, and who rely on us as customers. Check out: Wintercraft, Frankly Scarlett, J. Mitchell Gallery, Starfish Gallery, Salt Spring Gallery of Fine Arts, West of the Moon children's store, Waterfront Gallery, Salt Spring Books, Watermark Books, Volume 2 Books, Salty Shop, Houseboat, Harlan's Chocolates, Windflower Moon metaphysical store, Salt Spring Soap Works, and don't forget gift certificates from Calvin's Bistro, from Cafe Talia, from Salt Spring Roasting Company, from T.J. Beans, from Treehouse, from Bruce's Kitchen. Lots of options to meet that "under $20" mark! Your suggestions? Always welcome! Take a minute, too, to enjoy the lights in the Village, to catch a tea or coffee or hot chocolate at your favourite "watering hole", and to just "be". Tomorrow is the third Sunday in Advent...it's the candle of Hope...a thought for all of us to ponder on, in these uncertain times. December 11, 2009. Calvin's Bistro is offering a terrific 3 course Christmas Dinner as their holiday special...three choices of starters, two entree choices (yes, turkey is one of them!), and two choices of seasonal desserts. They also offer Christmas parties, up to 65 people. Enjoy! December 19th, at Moby's, Zav RT and Daniel Huscroft will showcase their prodigious talents, starting at 8 p.m. Grace Point Square merchants invite everyone to browse their fine seasonal offerings...something for every budget and every taste, here! Frankly Scarlett gifts and gems, Persnickety children's wear, Upstairs Bears unique Teddy Bear Boutique, J. Mitchell Gallery's eclectic offerings of sculpture, painting, jewellery, objets to please, Ganges Garment Company with gifts of clothing and accessories, Starfish Gallery & Studio, emphasizing photography and writings, poems and prose...wander these innovative locations...tired? pop into the Skin Sensations Day Spa... At Salt Spring Vineyards, on the 12th and 13th, plus the 16th to the 23rd, and the 27th to 29th, enjoy tastings and consider their gift baskets as suggestions for Santa to consider...open noon to 4 p.m. Salt Spring Artists Gallery of Fine Art, on McPhillips, showcases Big Small Show...lots of ideas, here, for all budgets. If you haven't discovered this latest addition to the cooperative gallery scene, in "downtown Ganges", then you have a treat before you. Don't forget the Salt Spring Concert Band's performance, tomorrow night, at ArtSpring: Celestial Music. Show begins, one night only, at 8 p.m. Sunday, at 2:30 p.m., also at ArtSpring, is the very talented Sharon Minemoto Trio -- if you're a jazz fan, be there! Music at Treehouse (yes, in the comfort of their new enclosed space) -- tonight, it's Vaughn Fulford and tomorrow night it's Donn Tarris & Tess Fama. Live music, in this location, every Friday and Saturday, now, from 5 to 8 p.m. Enjoy! Wintercraft continues at Mahon Hall...lots of great gift ideas, here, and for all budgets. Catch Marnie Burton's jewellery, here. Wintercraft runs through to Dec. 20th, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily. Seasonal music and themes at All Saints by the Sea: Carols for Christmastide on Dec. 16th, at 2 p.m., and then the more traditional Anglican presentation of Nine Lessons and Carols. Sunday, Dec. 20th, at 4 p.m. Don't forget to tune into the local community radio station...some great shows on, and you can view the roster of options at the website ( www.cfsi-fm.com) -- it's the voice of the Islands! I find it very interesting that the decision to rebuild the new library, in its current McPhillips Avenue location, passed by 78% in favour of same location. Salt Spring appears to be a very thoughtful space...interesting points of view, in the letters to the editor, for several weeks, in the local weekly newspaper (Driftwood), and in the end, the "Island spoke". We are lucky we live where we do. Don't forget that tomorrow is Santa's arrival by ship! He arrives on the Lions Santa Ship, with fireworks display in the Harbour, at 7 p.m. Then off to the Salt Spring Elementary School, to deliver gifts, plus a segue to Greenwoods and Lady Minto Hospital. If you've never seen this particular Santa arrival, don't miss it! This is a difficult time, economically, as we enter year two of the meltdown moment of late 2008. The local Food Bank projects that it will be $20,000 "short", due to increased need. It's so important to remember to gift, even though the gift may be small, these kinds of options...this is the season of giving and of sharing, and good to take a larger point of view, beyond our immediate circle of family and friends, and to remember the community at large.... Some other giving options? Copper Kettle, SPCA, Island Wildlife rescue & rehabilitation facility, Salvation Army, B.C. Children's Hospital....the need is great. December 10, 2009. "Use a mirror in difficult times: You will see both cause and resolution." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations") December 9, 2009. My Monday morning radio show is back on! My first "producer", Mark Voyce, co-owner of Bocado's Bistro, went back to his "day job". in film work, and is currently in Kenya, working on a project there. Someone new popped up, to be the producer of the show, Dave Gordon, and this morning was our first show. Please tune in (107.9 fm or via streaming audio, off station's website: www.cfsi-fm.com) every Monday, 7 to 9 a.m. (it's live), Pacific time. Music and musings...interviews with Islanders, too. So many interesting people on this Island -- I look forward to introducing some of them to the listening audience. Someone you think I should contact? Your suggestions are always welcome! It's community radio, after all.... December 8, 2009. Looking for a sunny (s/sw/w) oceanfront property, in "natural" state, awaiting your development ideas? Here's a gem! Panoramic ocean vistas, across Stuart Channel, and in the warm swimming waters of the Island! Bring your architect, and walk this one soon. A lovely building site, for maximum privacy and for wide-angle views of ocean and mountains, plus easy access to deep water oceanfront could be creatively accomplished...a gentle slope to the water. In an area of fine homes, with a charming "rural" ambiance, and in an area that is on a community water system. This property has been resting in the sunshine, awaiting your discovery and development of same...the perfect place for your dream home! December 7, 2009 BBC news reports : Gold price slumps as dollar stregthens Car sales and output pass the 12 million mark in China Iceland's economy shrinks further Dubai shares fall on fears over the emirate's debt load Mobile phones 'have not increased brain cancers' Google set offer property dimensions to UK mapping Ancient city of Pompeii added to Google Street View December 6, 2009. Today is the Second Sunday in the Advent season...the four Sundays before Christmas Day, in the Christian calendar. Regardless of one's spiritual belief system, I've always found it a very meditative experience, to light an Advent candle, each Sunday, and to ponder on the meaning of same. The four candles of Advent are: Love, Joy, Hope, Peace. Last Sunday, it was the candle of Love. Today, it's the candle of Joy. Joy is an interesting description...yes, perhaps it can be "extreme happiness", the word "intensity" of emotion could be another way to think of it. A joyful experience, a feeling of joy, elation that lifts one from the mundane...a sense of expectancy might also be a part of the meaning of joy. Part of it may also involve that sense of gratitude for one's personal blessings in life. We all have stresses and worries, and we also all have small and large moments that make us very glad to be who we are. I'm reading an interesting book right now, called The Field. It's about physics, and the new discoveries, one of which is the sense that the entire universe is connected by a background energy field, from the cellular to the universe level. I do not have a physics background, and often re-read paragraphs, to make sure I'm understanding the points. Very interesting ideas...remarkably reminiscent of the Sanskrit readings in the Veda. Hmmm.... Meantime, am lighting my candle of Joy, and concentrating on bringing this response into my world. Perhaps, if the discoveries by physicists, as described in The Field, are proven, then I may also be bringing this response of Joy into a larger frame. December 5, 2009. Check out the winning entries for best decorated storefront, at recent "light up" celebration: West of the Moon children's store, the Fire Hall, Mouat's Clothing, Love My Kitchen. Lots of talented "runner up" entries, too -- Harlan's Chocolates, Island Savings, Thrift Shop, Pharmasave, Choices, Salt Spring Soapworks! Stroll the Village on these crisp and clear evenings, and enjoy the lights! Tonight, seasonal songs from north and south, with Frost and Fire, at ArtSpring, presented by Salt Spring singers. Luanne Katz, on marimba, Josh Layne on harp, directed by Mitch Howard, with accompanist Jennifer Howard. Winter Fest, at Salt Spring Centre, on Blackburn Road, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Dec 12th -- craft-making, musical entertainment (Raffi and more), mindful gift market, scrumptious foods, raffle draw at 3 p.m. This is the 10th annual event, in support of Salt Spring Centre School. Tree House Cafe is now "enclosed", for year round enjoyment -- check it out! Sunday, Dec. 13th, 2:30 p.m., at ArtSpring, it's classic jazz at its best, with Sharon Minemoto Trio. Calvin's Traditional Christmas menu starts on Dec 8th! Dec 12th, enjoy Salt Spring Concert Band, under Dawn Hage, Music Director, and featuring Danielle Topaz (2009 Solo Competition winner) and be entertained with their Celestial Music, at ArtSpring, 8 p.m. Catch The Big Small Show at Salt Spring Artists' Gallery on McPhillips Ave. This latest addition to the "gallery scene" is worth a visit! Deb Toole, the director of Viva Voce, a 78 member group, will be presenting the premiere concert of its work on Dec 11th, at All Saints by the Sea (7 p.m.). The show is replayed at 3 p.m. On the 13th. Tickets available at Salt Spring Books. Dec 8, 9, 10, at ArtSpring, it's Steel Magnolias, starring 6 extremely talented local actresses. Showtime: 8 p.m. So many great things to do at this stellar time of year! Enjoy the special Salt Spring scene... December 4, 2009. The Arctic Front is now creeping down the Coast, and there's a high pressure ridge that is bringing us clear, crisp days...the mountains are jumping into the sky, the full moon is shimmering a path across the ocean, and all the stars are vividly "there". A total opposite turn from the grey wind and rainstorms of all of November (a series of "pineapple express" storms battered the entire coastal area throughout November), and very welcome, indeed! Now cold, though, for us. We are so lucky in this part of the world....beauty everywhere! December 3, 2009. Here's a great investment property on special Salt Spring Island! 3 bed country home, spacious kitchen, living room with access to expansive covered deck, plus family room. The plus? Separate studio -- artist? Home occupation? Sunny (s/sw/w exposures), private small acreage, a forest and meadow mix (arable land, here), and close to Village! Nearby lake and ocean accesses, park hiking/walking trails, golf, all services and amenities, yet in its own serene world. Listed below tax assessed value; motivated out of country seller. Don't miss this opportunity! December 2, 2009. Lots going on this weekend, on Salt Spring Island: WinterCraft, at Mahon Hall, the Fulford Hall and Beaver Point Hall craft fairs, specialty showings in Village galleries (J. Mitchell Gallery, Steffich Fine Art, Starfish Gallery, Frankly Scarlett, Upstairs Bears -- all in Grace Point Square -- plus Martinus' (gems, gold and silver work) collaboration with Ulrike Benner (fabric artist), at Martinus' Seaview Ave studio, plus McPhillips Fine Art Gallery, and the show (Interiors) currently at ArtSpring's gallery, plus Pegasus Canadian Fine Art gallery on the "boardwalk"...so many opportunities to be both impressed by and supportive of our exceptional artists community! Time to drive the Island, and enjoy the personal artist studios? Even better! Pick up the studio map at the Chamber's tourist info centre (and be sure to thank the volunteers within, for being such good ambassadors for our Island!) and enjoy your meander through these spaces -- remember what the dormouse said ("feed your head")! If you're near Sidney/Saanich, this coming weekend is also the annual craft fair showcase of uniquely Salt Spring gift ideas (called A Taste of Salt Spring, it's held annually at Panorama Centre). Feel like a daytrip off Island? Enjoy the Festival of Trees at the Fairmont Empress, and experience the wonderland of lights at Butchart's Garden! Heading up Island? Essential to see Ladysmith's incredible "light display"...you will be instantly transformed to a Christmas and Holiday wonderland feel! Remember, too, to generously give whatever you can to the food bank, to the Salvation Army, to the shelters for the homeless, to Copper Kettle...to the "need" in your area. The economic downturn afflicts everyone, economizing is the watchword for all, and yet it's so important to remember those truly "needy" souls...try to read Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol tale, in its original form. In my family, we began the tradition some years ago to give donations to our chosen places, in the name of the relative(s) on our gift list. No individual gifts, then. Remember, too, that if you pass one of those Christmas trees, with gift tags (girl, 11; boy, 8; infant, 6 mos), to take one, and come back with the gift...the unexpected can work miracles.... It is a season of sharing, of creating light, of enjoying good fellowship and cheer, and of practicing the attitude of gratitude. December 1, 2009. "When you drink water, Remember its source." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations")

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