Blog > November 2023 Newsletter
Ease into a cozy holiday season at home and in the community
It’s getting chilly outside. How are you staying cozy? In this month’s newsletter, I’ll be sharing my favourite indoor pastime, home energy efficiency tips, and a few ways to embrace the holiday spirit on Vancouver Island.
I’m a huge movie buff and I like nothing more than curling up under a cozy blanket with a bowl of popcorn and a movie. I’ve discovered some gems recently on popular streaming sites - let me share them with you!
If you’re a fan of Edgar Allan Poe, you’ll love the Netfilx miniseries, The Fall of the House of Usher, which is based on Poe’s short story of the same name. Woven throughout the show are snippets from his other poems and short stories such as The Pit and the Pendulum, The Raven, and my favourite poem – Annabel Lee.
If you’re looking for the perfect combination of history and musical entertainment, the Disney+ release of Hamilton is a must-watch. This special recorded version of the Tony Award-winning musical gives you the Broadway experience in the comfort of your home.
If you’re a fan of documentaries, don’t miss out on My Octopus Teacher on Netflix. This is an unusual story of a filmmaker and an octopus who develop a strong bond and friendship. It’s a heartwarming, educational, and all-around lovely story.
Watch Now: Free Money to Green Your Home
Last month, I sat down with Rick Martin (Energy Advisor at Energy View) and Bruce Moss (Master Electrician at Son Solar) to talk about how we can all improve the energy efficiency of homes.
Here are some highlights from that Q&A:
- A home energy assessment helps you identify and prioritize the different ways to save energy and money.
- It’s important to improve your building envelope (like sealing gaps and improving insulation) and to consider your energy source (like moving from fossil fuel heating to solar energy or a heat pump).
- The government is working hard to incentivize the transition to more efficient homes.
- BetterHomesBC.ca is an excellent starting point for finding rebates for saving energy in your home.
- Things can take time so it’s always a good idea to start talking to professionals early to get a headstart on the planning process.
It was such an informative hour of discussion. Luckily, we recorded the session so you can watch it at your convenience!
Next Talk: Secrets to Stress-Free Entertaining on Dec 6
Being a part of my community has its perks! Each month, get access to an exclusive virtual talk where local experts to share insights that directly impact your life on Vancouver Island.
With the holidays just around the corner, it’s time to prepare for parties and feasts! This year, learn how to entertain in style without breaking the bank or breaking a sweat with Chef Luke Griffin, Owner of Chefs Course.
- Get hosting tips for making holiday entertaining fun for you and your guests
- Learn ways to combat inflation and shrinkflation without losing out on taste
- Leave with easy yet impressive ideas for creating memorable holiday meals
Date: Wednesday, December 6, 2023
Time: 6-7 PM Pacific Time
I know life can get busy so you’re welcome to join for the whole hour or just a portion of the talk! Register now to get your unique meeting link.
Reminder: Dinner & Art For A Cause on Nov 25
Last month, I invited you to join me for a unique dinner and silent auction fundraiser to support Mt. Arrowsmith Salvation Army. Have you made your reservation yet?
Date: Saturday, November 25, 2023
Time: 6-9pm
Location: Morningstar Grill (525 Lowry’s Rd, Parksville, at Morningstar Golf Club)
How to join: Simply call Morningstar Grill (250-248-2244 ext. 2) to make a reservation for dinner on November 25 at 6pm. Please mention you’re attending Dinner & Art For A Cause benefiting Mt. Arrowsmith Salvation Army.
Art For A Cause is a charity fundraiser series where artwork by local artists is auctioned off with proceeds going to local charities. Seating for the Nov 25th event is limited and booked on a first come first served basis. The art auction will start at 6pm and end at 8:30pm. Proceeds will help provide food assistance and community services to the Parksville area.
Showcasing Artists:
- Derek Rickwood - Painter
- Lisa Rickwood - Mixed Media/Oil & Photography & Author
- Michael Rickwood - Photographer
- Don Bonner - Artisan
- Russell Scow - Sculptor
- Greg McRae - Photographer
- Rod Corraini - Painter
Interest Rates Cools Housing Market
It’s not just the outdoor temperature that’s cooling, but the real estate market is also turning down the heat. The effects of high interest rates and a mortgage stress test of 8% are apparent as the number of sales of Vancouver Island single-family homes, condo apartments, and row/townhouses all decreased from September to October 2023. Some buyers and sellers are deciding to lay low until spring 2024 with the hopes of lower interest rates at that time. Given the market conditions, it’s more important than ever to work with a qualified realtor with specialized knowledge of local markets to create a custom buying/selling plan.
Community Events to Explore
Live Music Wednesdays at Nanoose Bay Cafe
Ongoing | 6pm to 8pm
Nanoose Bay Cafe (3521 Dolphin Dr, Nanoose Bay)
Enjoy complimentary live music by different artists each Wednesday night. Plus, All Night Happy Hour starts at 3pm in the Bar & Lounge!
Barney Bentall & The Cariboo Express
November 24 | 7:30pm
Knox United Church (345 Pym Street, Parksville)
This very special fundraising concert benefits the Nanoose Community Services, whose motto is "neighbours helping neighbours" and provides the following help to their community.
November 25 | 11am to 3pm
Nanoose Bay Cafe (3521 Dolphin Dr, Nanoose Bay)
The perfect spot to do your holiday shopping and to find unique goods made by small business vendors in the area.
WinterFest Craft Fair in Qualicum Beach
November 24-26 | 11am to 3pm
Qualicum Beach Civic Centre (747 Jones Street, Qualicum Beach)
Shop for artisan-made clothing, jewelry, art, home decor, toys, gourmet food items, and more. Plus, admire the student art showcase and enjoy live entertainment and complimentary drinks and snacks.
A Very, Merry Christmas Market
November 25 | 5pm to 8pm
Qualicum Beach Community Hall (644 Memorial Avenue, Qualicum Beach)
This is a local artisan market featuring live music and a free raffle with artisan wares. A suggested donation of $5 will go towards supporting the Oceanside Hospice Society.
December 2-3 | 11am to 5pm
Coombs Fairgrounds (1014 Ford Rd, Coombs)
Decorated with abundant greenery and twinkling lights, guests are invited to embrace the holiday spirit at Coombs Christmas Market.
December 1-3, 8-10, and 15-20 from 5pm - 8pm with viewing until 8:30pm
Milner Gardens (2179 W Island Hwy W, Qualicum Beach)
Make memories with family and friends this holiday season by experiencing Milner Christmas Magic’s outdoor stroll through thousands of glimmering lights and festive window displays.