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abbotsford May 31, 2022

Fraser Valley Events for June 2022

Abbotsford Events in June

HIKE FOR HOSPICE
They say, “Every year the Abbotsford Hospice Society holds our annual Hike for Hospice to raise funds and awareness in our community. All funds raised stay here in Abbotsford to support our programs and services. Walk, run, or roll – Hike for Hospice is a family-friendly, fun event! The Hike for Hospice has become an annual tradition for many families and friends to honour the memories of their loved ones. We are very grateful to all the hikers, donors, volunteers and sponsors who help make this event a success. Funds raised by events like Hike for Hospice play an important role in allowing us to serve the community with our end-of-life and grief support programs for all ages, offered at no cost. Your support makes a difference. Thank you!
DATE: Sunday, June 12, 12:00 pm
VENUE: Mill Lake Park, Ware Street
LEARN MORE / PHOT0 CREDIT

BC HIGHSCHOOL RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIPS
Big week of high school rugby as the BC high school provincials come to town. Should be a great week! All games at Exhibition Park and Rotary Stadium.
DATE: June 1 (Wednesday) – June 4 (Saturday)
VENUE: Abbotsford Exhibition Park, 34270 Haida Drive

THE HEALTH AND WELLNESS SHOW
They say, “The Health and Wellness Show is excited to be back for another year full of great speakers, a wide variety of health and wellness exhibitors, a rock wall for kiddos, and the famous Tommy Europe will be back! Not only is Tommy one of our featured speakers, but he will also be hosting his BootCamp right at the show Saturday morning. Pre-registration is required for this part of the event. The West Coast Small Home Expo will be happening that weekend as well, and your Health and Wellness ticket will give you entry to that show as well!
DATE: June 4 (Saturday) 10:00 am – June 5 (Sunday) 4:00 pm
VENUE: Tradex, 1190 Cornell Street
LEARN MORE / PHOTO CREDIT

Langely Events in June

LANGLEY CHARITABLE NIGHTS DINNER AND SHOW: Entertainment by Bob Seger Tribute
They say, “Support Langley Charitable Nights and come for a semi-formal dinner with entertainment featuring The Ultimate Bob Seger Night Moves Tribute. Select Saturdays from January to June, local charities are bringing you DINNER AND A SHOW. Proceeds from these events will go directly to Langley charities. Tickets are sold by the table. Tickets are $90per person for dinner and a show, $60per person for a table of 6 with charcuterie and cheeseboards only (1 board per 2 people), or $45 per person for entertainment only. Drink service available. Gather your friends! Dinner will be hosted by The Lodge Steakhouse and The Horse and Ryder Pub with entertainment coming from some top tribute bands.”
DATE: June 3, 2022 TIME: 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
VENUE: George Preston Recreation Centre, 42 Avenue, Langley, BC, Canada
WEBSITE

LANGLEY COMMUNITY FARMERS MARKET – Opening Day
They say, “Join us on the opening day of the Langley Community Farmers Market! The Langley Community Farmer’s Market provides a venue for local farmers to sell fresh produce, meat, dairy, and artisan products to our community. The market runs every Wednesday at the Derek Doubleday Arboretum throughout the summer, and features the best food and artisan products the beautiful Fraser Valley has to offer.”
DATE: June 1, 2022 TIME:3:00 pm to 7:00 pm
VENUE Derek Doubleday Arboretum, Fraser Highway, Langley Township, BC, Canada
WEBSITE and PHOTO CREDIT: https://lcfm.ca/

CYCLE FOR SIGHT
They say, “Since 2009, 4,000+ riders have hit the road on their single or tandem bikes, raising more than $5 million for Fighting Blindness Canada (FBC) and vision research. FBC offers hope to Canadians by identifying the best, most promising research that is driving treatments and cures for blinding eye diseases, and by raising funds to support this essential, sight-saving research. To help you get ready to cycle, enjoy a FREE month of on-demand spin classes from Positive Edge with your registration. Get pumped with great energy and super music! Join us today and together, Let’s MOVE vision research forward.”
DATE: June 11, 2022 TIME: 7:30 am to 2:30 pm
VENUE: Langley Lions Society West Langley Hall, 208 Street, Langley Township, BC, Canada
WEBSITE / PHOTO CREDIT

BELL CANADIAN TRACK AND FIELD CHAMPIONSHIPS
They say, “The Township of Langley is hosting the 2022 and 2023 editions of the Bell Canadian Track & Field Championships. In both 2022 and 2023, the Bell Canadian Track & Field Championships will include national championships for Senior, U20, Para Athletics and Combined Events, serving as Trials for the World Athletics Championships.
DATE: June 22-26, 2022
VENUE: McLeod Athletic Park, Johnston Townline Road, Langley, BC, Canada
WEBSITE / PHOTO CREDIT

Surrey Events in June

THURSDAY ARTIST TALK; PAM ASSI, “ONE WITH NATURE”
Journey with a Surrey-based artist as she describes her creative process in this Thursday Artist Talk organized by Surrey Art Gallery Association.
Date & Time: June 2, 2022 7:30pm – 9:00pm
Tickets: Free
Surrey-based artist Pam Assi uses vivid colours and strong lines in her acrylic paintings to express what interests her about the subject. The pandemic is responsible for opening up a new subject matter for her: birds in her garden. “They helped me through these isolated times,” she says. Every painting has a story, and it is through these stories that Assi describes how she sees the “human quality” of the birds and their interaction with each other and with humans. In this illustrated talk, Assi will also touch on her artistic journey of how growing up in the UK in the 60s and attending art college there influenced her art and her life.
Website and Photo Credit

GUTSY WALK
Join a fun-filled, family-friendly, and non-competitive day to walk in support of those impacted by Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Date & Time: June 5, 2022 12:00am – 11:59pm
Come to walk and meet members of the inflammatory bowel disease community (IBD) at your own pace! Gutsy Volunteers will be set up at tables in the park helping you celebrate Gutsy Walk day safely in a shared space with each other.
Website / Photo

CAR FREE DAY IN SURREY
Date & Time: June 11, 2022 12:00pm – 8:00pm
We are pleased to announce Car Free Day Surrey, which will take over 137 Street and transform the street into a pedestrian paradise with multiple stages, artisan vendors, local merchants, and family-friendly fun! This event will celebrate the businesses with storefronts on 137 with extended patios and booths, in addition to multiple activities for people to take part in. This is a free community festival free of cars, promoting active transportation, focused on families, and the promotion of local business.
Find out more about Car Free Day

FATHERS DAY AT THE FARM
Celebrate Dad with trains and history.
Date & Time – June 19, 2022 12:00pm – 4:00pm
Location: Stewart Farm – 13723 Crescent Road, Surrey, BC
The theme of the weekend is Victorian Gadgets and Gizmos! The Greater Vancouver Garden Railway Club will also be onsite with a large-scale model railway display on the lawn. With some locomotive inspiration, head to Stewart Hall to make a train-themed Father’s Day card. The farmhouse will be open for drop-in visits as well.
Photo Credit

SURREY’S NATIONAL INDIGENOUS DAY CELEBRATION AND WELLNESS EVENT
Celebrate the rich culture and history of Indigenous Peoples of Canada.
Date & Time: June 21, 2022 3:00pm – 8:00pm
Hosted by Semiahmoo, Kwantlen and Katzie First Nations, this event is an opportunity to acknowledge and show respect and admiration for Indigenous Peoples past, present and future; to share cultural history; and to share spirit, experiences, stories, song, art and dance with each other and the community. The in-person event will include cultural sharing from the local First Nations and Nova Métis with teachings and practice through art, music, storytelling, and dance including:

- - - The Wild Moccasin Dancers, (Shyama-Priya and David Whitebean)
    - Stars of the North Drum Group, (LaDonna Wiks-Joseph name by Wata)
    - XiQuelem, (Eugene Harry)
    - JB the First Lady, (Jerilynn Webster)
    - Métis Jigging, (Madelaine McCallum)
    - And more!
      Website and Photo
    FOOTNOTES
    Abbotsford Events – https://tourismabbotsford.ca/events/
    Langley Events – https://www.tourism-langley.ca/event_month/june/
    Surrey Events – https://www.surrey.ca/news-events/events
    Photos – No copyright infringement intended. Please contact rod@impactintl.net for credit or removal.

abbotsford April 27, 2022

Help Preserve BC’s Fish Stocks for Future Anglers

BCFDF Fundraiser is Coming in May

Join the BC Federation of Drift Fishers on May 26th for their first fundraiser in two years!

They say, “The British Columbia Federation Of Drift Fishers was formed in March 1996 by a group of concerned anglers who felt that their chosen method of angling was in jeopardy.

“The Federation has grown to be recognized as the voice of British Columbia’s river anglers. Protection of the resource is our primary concern. The Federation is committed to working with other similar-minded organizations and government agencies, whose goals parallel our own.

“Concerned anglers who wish to preserve anadromous fish stocks for future generations should consider joining the Federation: your voice can make a difference! We sit on over 15 Provincial boards or committees including the main board of the sports fish advisory board.

“If you fish B.C. Rivers, get involved, your voice alone is quiet, but collectively we are heard.”

WHEN? MAY 26th, 2022 – 6pm to 10pm

WHERE? LANGLEY GOLF CENTRE- 21550 44th Ave, Langley, B.C.

TICKETS – $35 per person – See https://mailchi.mp/c3b6a62b9573/bcfdf2022fundraiser

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Photo by Luke Brugger on Unsplash

Featured April 21, 2022

Fraser Valley Real Estate Update April 2022

Our guest today is Mike Wilson. Mike is the publisher of the Fraser Valley Lifestyle and a realtor here in the Fraser Valley.

Listen Here:

FUELRADIO.COM · Fraser Valley Real Estate Update April 2022

In today’s interview, we try to address the ongoing question of what’s going on in the real estate market. It’s probably one of the questions that Mike and most realtors get asked most often. So, we talk about:

what it takes to get into the market today
possible changes happening in interest rates and how that will affect purchasing or selling a home
government changes and regulations that are taking place
the importance of due diligence and how the opportunity to do that has returned
the importance of making a plan with your agent when you are looking to sell and buy a home.

Get in touch with Mike!

Mike Wilson
Royal LePage Northstar Realty
Web – https://fvlifestyle.com/real-estate-home/
604-538-2125
mike@fvlifestyle.com

abbotsford March 31, 2022

April Events in the Fraser Valley

Looking for something to do in the Fraser Valley in April? Here are some of our Fraser Valley picks. From Food Truck wars to flower shows.

Abbotsford

Celtic Illusion – Wed, Apr 6, 2022, 7 – 9 pm
Fusing contemporary Irish Dance with magic and grand illusions, Celtic Illusion features a cast of champion and internationally-acclaimed dancers, including performers from both Riverdance and Lord of the Dance. Displaying some of the fastest taps in the world, the dancers’ thunderous rhythm fills the stage in perfect unison. Celtic Illusion is led by Australia’s Anthony Street, the first Australian to perform leading roles in Michael Flatley’s widely-acclaimed Lord of the Dance, including the very role that Michael Flatley originally performed himself. Since its premiere in 2011, Celtic Illusion has played to sold-out audiences all across Australia and recently completely sold out a tour in Canada. Celtic Illusion features a new soundtrack composed by a team including Angela Little (co-composer of Baz Luhrman’s film Australia), Steve Skinner (arranger and producer for artists such as Celine Dion, Stevie Wonder, and the Broadway musical Rent), and Michael Londra (Emmy® nominated singer and producer).
WEBSITE

Bradner Flower Show – Fri, Apr 8 – Sun, Apr 10 2022, All-day
92nd Annual Bradner Flower Show: “A Place to Dream”.
The Annual Bradner Flower Show began in 1928 and is attended by thousands of people from all over the lower mainland. It has been on hiatus for the last 2 years due to COVID restrictions, but is now back for 2022! At the Bradner Community Hall
WEBSITE

Escape Velocity Bike Spring Series – Sat, Apr 16 2022, 9:30 – 11:30am
Location: Aldergrove Regional Park, 685 Lefeuvre Road (ACCESS IS ALDERGROVE BOWL)
Race Director: Ryan Cousineau: 604 512 8863, rcousine@gmail.com
We are ‘springing back’ from a two-year Spring Series hiatus! Our first race of the season will be the Aldergrove Long Course-a 10.2 km punchy crowd pleaser!
WEBSITE PHOTO

Langley

LAILA BIALI Trio – April 1, 2022, 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Appearing with Laila will be West Coast Music Award winner, Juno nominated and local hero, bassist Jodi Proznick and drummer Nicholas Bracewell. Bez Arts Hub says, “We hosted Laila at BEZ in the ‘before time’, January of 2020 – it was a stunning show and she was performing music from her newly released recording, Out Of Dust. The album received high praise from around the world and throughout the ‘big world crazy time’ she kept her spirits up and continued to win hearts with her passionate and joy-filled music. You won’t want to miss a highly entertaining evening with Laila, she’s a national treasure!”
Website and Photo

Music Night with Steve Halfnights – April 2, 2022, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
On Saturday, April 2, 2022, from 6 – 9 pm, enjoy your evening with Backyard Vineyards listening to live music by Steve Halfnights and sipping on wine. Music will take place in our tasting room so seating is limited, be sure to grab your tickets in advance.
WEBSITE

Barney Bentall – April 15, 2022, 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Barney Bentall, the man with the legendary heart returns to Bez Arts Hub. With a career that spans decades and timeless songs that are woven into the fabric of our nation, Barney Bentall is an absolute must-see, especially in the intimate and up-close listening room at Bez Arts Hub. His newest recording is a rugged, fiercely ambitious work, The Drifter & The Preacher combines intensely personal artistry with a broader vision of a public figure coming to terms with his ordered life as a musician, as a songwriter, as a husband, as a father, and as a son while turning in his most urgent, and forceful performance in memory.
WEBSITE

Kilt Night Cask Festival – April 24, 2022, 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm
A Cask Beer Festival! Finally! Join us for Kilt Night Cask Festival. Wear a Kilt – Win a Prize! Kilt Night Cask Festival. Smugglers Trail is beyond excited to get involved in Cask Festivals again! Everybody needs an excuse to wear a kilt! (Of course, other modes of fashion are more than welcome!) Everybody is welcome! Enjoy Smugglers Fresh Cask Ales on our unique handpumps and sample wildly creative offerings from several guest breweries … FRESH FROM THE CASK! Live Music featuring The Contingency. $30 Ticket includes entrance, souvenir glass, and 8 drink tokens. Extra tokens are available for $3 ea.
WEBSITE

Festina Lente Turns 5! – April 30, 2022, 11:00 am to 6:00 pm
Festina Lente is turning 5! Swing by for Live Music, pizza pop-up, prizes, special wines…what more could we ask for? Of course we will also have cake and a nice sample of Zephyr to pair with it! Tastings are complimentary all weekend.
WEBSITE/PHOTO

Surrey

Seedy Saturday – April 2, 2022 10:00am – 12:00pm
Get ready to plant your garden at our annual gardening event. Drop by the farm for a seed and plant sale, including flowers, vegetables, and herb seeds collected from our heirloom garden. Even bring your own open-pollinated seeds for the seed exchange. Master Gardeners will be available to answer questions about all aspects of gardening. Bring the Family – There will be crafts set up in the Stewart Hall for children to enjoy. The farmhouse will also be open for tours. Both of these indoor activities require proof of vaccine and masks. Finish off the experience with a walk through Elgin Heritage Park or a picnic on the scenic grounds.
WEBSITE and PHOTO CREDIT

New Start Art Show – April 3, 2022 10:00am – April 29, 2022 3:30pm
Find bright flowing colours, coastal wildlife, and more at this art show. Surrey’s Artswest Society is excited to share their art with you. Their show, New Start, reflects their joy. After two years of learning to live with the COVID-19 pandemic, they are bursting to show the many things they have created. Bright flowing colours, coastal Wildlife, moody landscapes, and intricate designs are just a few of the things you will find in the show.
WEBSITE

Food Truck Wars – April 8, 2022 12:00am – April 10, 2022 11:59pm
Enjoy 40 different food trucks spanning 3 days. Food Truck Wars will be Metro Vancouver’s LARGEST Food Truck Festival where you will see 40 different food trucks spanning over 3 days. Trophies and prizes will be awarded to various food trucks based on categories like “Between the Buns”, “International”, “Sweets”, “Fusion”, “Classic”, and “Plant-Based”. In addition to these epic food trucks, there will also be local market vendors courtesy of BC Shop Local, two stages of live music and entertainment, site-wide beer and wine, and much more to come!
WEBSITE

FOOTNOTES
Abbotsford Events – https://www.abbotsford.ca/community-events/events-abbotsford/events-calendar
Langely Events – https://www.tourism-langley.ca/events/
Surrey Events – https://www.surrey.ca/news-events/events
📸 Photos – Please email rod@impactintl.com for credit or removal.
No copyright infringement intended.

Chilliwack March 24, 2022

Spring Projects for Your Fraser Valley Home

Spring is a time of new beginnings, making it the perfect season for tackling home improvement projects. Get your house ready for warmer weather with these spring projects.

Gutter Maintenance

Make sure your gutters can withstand April showers by either cleaning or replacing them. If they’re not in tip-top shape, water can pour down the sides of your home, potentially causing damage to the windows, siding and doors.

Signs That Your Gutters Need To Be Replaced

Bent or floppy
Rust
Cracks
Mold

Power Wash

Spring clean your home’s exterior and windows with a good power wash. If you’re not sure whether your home can handle the impact from a pressure-washing nozzle, hire a professional to get the job done.

Fresh Paint

Give a room a fresh update for spring with a new coat of paint. When deciding on the colour, remember that paint often dries brighter or darker than the swatches. Avoid any unpleasant surprises by sampling the colour on a piece of cardboard or a small area of a wall

Upgrade Your Deck

Get your deck ready for entertaining or relaxing outside! Whether you want to completely renovate or just do some cleaning and maintenance, now is the perfect time to revamp your deck.

Featured February 19, 2022

The Real Estate Market’s Potential Silver Lining

Mike Wilson is the publisher of the Fraser Valley Lifestyle website and he is also a real estate agent with Royal LePage Northstar. In this article, he discusses whether or not there is a particular segment in the real estate market for whom it might be a good time to consider selling and buying a new home.

Have a plan

Mike says… we have seen a lot of things going on in the market and the consensus is if you are going to move you need a well-thought-out plan. In today’s market, there’s not a lot of supply and that has created a market where prices have gone up and made it more competitive when you buy a home too. That can be a challenge, but if you have the right strategy that encompasses all of the steps involved in selling and buying a new home, your stress level can be greatly reduced and you can enter the market with confidence.

Is it a good time to think about moving?

Given the current real estate market conditions in the Fraser Valley, there is a specific group of buyers and sellers for whom this could be the time where they want to take a look at moving. That group of people may have gotten into the market over the last five to 10 years with a minimal amount of money as far as equity goes.

An Example

Let’s use a young couple as an example. They moved into their first condo, and they put a minimum of 5% down. They both have good jobs and maybe want to start a family, or they feel like they need some more space. Often people that start in condos want to move to a townhouse or to a house for more space or because their family is growing. If you were selling in this scenario, you had a huge increase in equity because of the increases in the market over the last five-plus years.

Equity

Let’s say you bought a condo for $500,000 five years ago and you put 5% down and now your place is worth close to $1 million. That extra $500,000 in equity is non-taxable at this point because it is your primary residence. If you had a revenue property situation the tax would be handled differently.

Meet with a mortgage broker

So what does this mean for the young couple in our example? In addition to the equity that they have built up, let’s say they also both have good jobs. In this case, they may want to sit down with their mortgage broker and establish what their monthly costs would be if they bought a larger more expensive home.

After sitting down with their broker the next question is, why do they want to move into a different property? One reason is that we all know that buying right now is a lifestyle decision because of the extreme cost. We’re spending a lot of money on housing. If we are making a lifestyle decision we want to live in homes that we enjoy because we’re spending a lot of money on it. Also if your family is growing you might need more space. So given these different scenarios; an equity bump, making a lifestyle decision, or needing more space they may want to sit down with a mortgage broker where the current interest rates are as historically low as they are.

Again, our young couple is going to have to pay a premium for their new home but they’re also selling for a premium. We are not talking about selling high and buying low. They are going to have to sell high and buy high, but because of the equity bump that allows them to qualify for a higher mortgage amount provided their jobs are solid.

Location, location, location

Another consideration in this scenario is that location is paramount. In real estate, it always has been location location location, so bear in mind that homes in some locations will return more and they will return more quickly. So another thing to think about is the location of where you want to buy and what will potentially happen to home values over the next few years in that location.

Think long-term

It’s also a time to look long-term and not just short-term like some people are doing right now. Selling and buying a new home is going to involve some stress but we have to look at real estate investing on the basis of the prospect that we may have a home for seven or eight years and what potentially is going to happen to home values during that time instead of looking at the short term.

Do you have real estate questions? I have answers…

If you have real estate questions, I’m always here to provide you with an answer so feel free to give me a call or text at 604-889-7653. You can also email me at mike@fvlifestyle.com.

Mike Wilson
604-538-2125
mike@fvlifestyle.com
Web – https://fvlifestyle.com/real-estate-home/

abbotsford February 11, 2022

Fraser Valley Valentine’s Day Spa Specials

With Valentines, Galentines, and Palentines (too much?) Day approaching, love is in the air and one of the main ways to love yourself and others is giving the gift of self-care.

There’s no better way to take care of yourself than to provide yourself with a spa treatment. We took a look around the Fraser Valley to see what some of the top local spas might be offering. Here is a list of what we found.

The Red Lotus Spa @abbotsfordredlotusspa in Abbotsford is running a 50% of Valentine’s special. They say “February is here to bring love and happiness in our lives❤️ Gifts cards are also available for this promo, a perfect gift for your loved ones.”
See special on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/p/CZcwsFJPMfY/
Website https://www.redlotusspa.ca/

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Bliss Day Spa @blissdayspalangley in Langley has a gift certificate promotion going for Valentine’s. They say – “Spoil someone that deserves a little self-care this Valentine’s Day (even if that someone is yourself 😉) Spend $100 on Valentine’s Day gift certificates and receive $20 for free!”
Website https://blissdayspa.ca/

Spa Utopia @spautopiabc in Langley has an Instagram giveaway that runs from Feb.11-20. They say – “IT’S GIVEAWAY TIME 😍🎉 We’re spreading the love this month and giving away a Luxury Facial for you AND a loved one! Be embraced with lavish details with caring attention. Wellness starts with a gentle therapist touch, soft essences, a stress-relieving massage on the face, neck & decollete along with a hot stone massage on the feet & legs. Focused attention is given to support your skin’s beauty and health and to deliver the best results possible…” For more details on how to enter see their Instagram post – https://www.instagram.com/p/CZ2DmtkBUPV/
Website – https://spautopia.ca/contact-us/langley/

Casbah Day Spa @casbahdayspa in South Surrey is running a gift card special. They say – “Our gift card promotion is back! Spend $250 or more and receive 10% back on a gift card back to you, Happy Valentine’s Day. And… “Just in time for Valentine’s, this sweet little bath fizzes ❤️ Sweet addition to your Valentines Day gift card ❤️ $10”
Website https://casbahdayspa.com/

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aru spa salon in Surrey has some spa packages to offer. They say… “TREAT YOUR VALENTINE TO A ROMANTIC SPA DAY! There is nothing more special than spending quality time together, while you both indulge in a romantic spa experience.  We are hosting our Valentine’s Spa Packages right through the month of February, so be sure to book your’s today.  We have a variety of Spa Packages to choose from, including our popular, Aru Japanese Experience for Couples… Plus our Valentine’s Day Gift Cards are available now!”
Website – https://www.aruspa.com/

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Naanaz Day Spa in Surrey is offering a MELTING ME AWAY PACKAGE They say – “A Relaxing Treatment uses heated stones to gently massage and soothe away an accumulation of stress and tension to bring the mind, body, and spirit into balance. and nourishes depleted cells, leaving the body in a deep state of relaxation and allowing for improved sleep and reduced inflammation to give an immediate sense of well-being. Package Includes a 60 minute hot stone massage with Manicure and Complimentary Paraffin or FREE TAKE HOME Chocolate or Cranberry Body Butter 90 min. Pkg $165 per person Reg $190.”
Website https://www.naanazdayspa.com/

Who doesn’t get a little blue on rainy days? The European Day Spa and Salon @europeandayspaandsalon in Abbotsford made this self-care post recently and they say, “Self-care tips for staying cozy on rainy days ☕️ No doubt we’re missing the warmer weather, but we hope in the meantime this self-care guide will keep you recharged and rejuvenated!” For more see https://www.instagram.com/p/CZvQrlBjQI-/
Website https://www.europeandayspa.ca/
Photo @europeandayspaandsalon

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FOOTNOTES
Photos – Unsplash
Please visit the various company websites to confirm the information listed above.

CULTURE January 4, 2022

5 Ways to Stay Healthy During the Winter

It’s here again. That time of year when people consider setting resolutions and health goals. In the Fraser Valley, it can be particularly difficult trying to exercise this time of year when the weather is vacillating between rain and snow making it difficult to be active outdoors and stay warm and dry. On top of this, we have viruses impacting our ability to stay healthy and work out at gyms and community centres. All that said, there are still a number of things that the experts tell us that we can do to stay healthy this time of year.

How do you stay healthy during the winter? Here are some healthy suggestions tailored to our Fraser Valley climate.

1. Eat healthily. This is kind of a no-brainer and you might be extra motivated to eat healthier after indulging during the holiday season, but a healthy diet is one of the most important things to maintain during the winter months. Eating healthy will ensure that our immune systems stay strong and eating unhealthy on the other hand will only open us up to a greater risk of infection. Our recommendation is to eat as much of a plant-based diet as you possibly can. The good news is there are lots of great plant-based recipes out there on the web and you can also order plant-based options from your favourite local restaurants or services like Fresh Prep and have them delivered to your door.

2. Be active. In addition to eating a healthy diet, trying to find ways to stay active during the winter is crucial. Our rule of thumb is to get at least 30 minutes of continuous exercise per day no matter what time of year it is! Being active outside this time of year isn’t as terrible as you might think especially if you’re just going out for 30 minutes. Dress warm, bring an umbrella to keep your upper body dry if necessary, and try to stay on paths and walkways that are used quite often so that there is less chance of slipping or getting your feet wet. Once you’re out there it isn’t that bad.

Of course, if you are not into going outside in wintry weather there are a plethora of online workout videos and smartphone apps. One of our favorite apps is the Nike Training Club. It’s a free app and has every kind of workout imaginable from Yoga to Cross-Training.

3. Wash your hands and consider wearing a mask. This is the time of year where germs spread easily and so washing your hands regularly can help. It’s also a good idea to carry hand sanitizer just in case you end up in a place where a sink and some soap aren’t available.

4. Get enough sleep. Most people don’t get enough sleep, but getting enough sleep can be a real game-changer for your immune system and your mental health. Here are some sleep stats that show how a lack of sleep impacts us [1]:

“People with severe insomnia are seven times more likely to have work-related accidents than good sleepers.”
“40% of people with insomnia are believed to also be affected by a mental health disorder.”
“Around 75% of adults with depression suffer from insomnia.”

5. Take the stairs. One of our fitness factor game changers is taking the stairs as often as you can and incorporating them into your 30 minutes of daily activity. Bottom line: find a way to head uphill at least three times a week. Stair climbing is great for weight loss and strengthening your heart. It can be difficult at first, but if you stick with it you’ll notice a dramatic difference in just a few weeks. There are plenty of places to head uphill in the Fraser Valley, but we’ll save that for a future article. In the meantime…

May you be healthy!

FOOTNOTES
Photos: Unsplash
Be active photo: https://www.nike.com/ca/ntc-app
[1] https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/sleep-facts-statistics
Information source – https://www.boody.com.au/blogs/lifestyle/9-ways-to-stay-fit-and-healthy-this-winter#

BUSINESS December 7, 2021

December Events in the Fraser Valley

Looking for something to do in the Fraser Valley in December? You have come to the right place. From Holiday lights, to plays, to concerts, to holiday parties there is something for everyone on the list below.

Abbotsford

13th Annual Trees of Hope

The Trees of Hope is a community event introduced in 2009, which provides Abbotsford businesses the opportunity to share in the spirit of giving during the holiday season. This is a fantastic opportunity to ‘brand’ a Christmas tree showcasing your business while supporting the Abbotsford Police Foundation. The decorated trees will be displayed in the common area of Sevenoaks Shopping Centre.
Date and Time: Tue, Nov 16 – Wed, Dec 29, 2021, All-day
Learn More and Photo Credit

Langley

Glow Langley
November 18, 2021 – January 1, 2022 – 4:30 pm to 10:30 pm Experience a family-friendly drive-through winter festival as you enjoy towering light gardens and magical landscapes all under the twinkle of a million lights. Given last year’s success, our team is back with an even better drive-through event! This year, Glow Langley invites you to “A Fairytale Christmas“: a magical world surrounded by our beloved fairytale characters. Take a leisurely 20-minute cruise into an illuminated wonderland that brings winter dreams to life! Munch on some tasty treats while you cruise along this one-of-a-kind journey. Every ticket comes with popcorn and mini donuts, on us! And of course, it wouldn’t be Glow without our poinsettias! This seasonal favourite can be ordered in advance with your admission ticket and will be conveniently delivered curbside, upon your arrival.
Learn More
Photo – @glowlangley

Christmas in Williams Park
November 26 – December 19, 2021 – 5;00 – 9:00 pm
The event this year will run every night from November 26 to December 19 from 5 to 9 pm. This extended time will mean there should be no need to purchase tickets and have extensive traffic controls. Come check out the beautiful Christmas light displays set up in Williams Park! The event will be DRIVE THROUGH only with no access to parking or washrooms so please attend to your needs before you come to the park. There is no fee to enter (and if it’s not busy you are free to go around the park more than once) but we are always happy to take any financial donation you can spare to keep the event alive…. we will again provide a tap option to donate for those who do not carry cash…. and that keeps us touch-free!
Learn More and Photo Credit

Vancouver Giants vs Victoria Royals – Chevrolet Teddy Bear Toss

Take in some WHL action at the Langley Events Centre watching the Vancouver Giants battle the Victoria Royals! Single-game tickets can be purchased at the Langley Events Centre Ticket Office 1 hour before puck drop or online at vancouvergiants.com/tickets. Bring your stuffed animals to the game and after the first Giants goal, toss them onto the ice from the stands! All stuffed animals will be donated to the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau.
Date: December 10, 2021, 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Location: Langley Events Centre, 200 Street, Langley, BC, Canada
Website: https://vancouvergiants.com/
Photo Credit

Dead Frog Brewery Customer Christmas Party
“Happy Holla Days!🎄🎅 It’s the 1st day of December and the holiday season is officially here! We’re throwing a Christmas Party on Saturday, December 11 to say THANK YOU to all of our amazing customers! It’s been a crazy year, and we want to say thank you to everyone that stuck by us and supported us through it all! 🌟”
Date: December 11, 2021, 11:00 am to 11:00 pm
Location: Dead Frog Brewery, 201 Street, Langley Township, BC, Canada
Website: https://deadfrog.ca/tasting-room/customer-christmas-party-2021/
Photo Credit

Aldergrove Christmas Light Up Parade
Christmas Times’ A Comin’ to Aldergrove on Saturday, December 11th.
Elks Children’s Christmas Celebration, Aldergrove Christmas Light Up Parade and Carol Singing in the Aldergrove Plaza. The Aldergrove Food Bank will be on-site to collect donations.
Date and Time: December 11, 2021, 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Location: 27214 Fraser Highway, Aldergrove, BC, Canada
Website: http://aldergrovefair.ca/

New Years Eve Party
The Smugglers countdown to 2022 is on! Join us at the Brewery + Tasting room on December 31st, 2021 for Langley’s best New Year’s Eve experience! We’ve put together an awesome night featuring live music with Six Gun Romeo to keep things hopping all night long! Tag your buddies and secure your tickets to welcome in the New Year, Smugglers style! For full menu details and to purchase your tickets, check the Eventbrite link HERE!
Date and time: Fri, 31 Dec 2021, 7:00 PM – Sat, 1 Jan 2022, 1:00 AM PST
Location: Smugglers Trail Brewery and Restaurant 9339 200A Street, #Unit 140, Langley Township, BC V1M 0B3
Photo Credit

Surrey

stɑlə̓w̓ Christmas Craft Market
You choose whether to shop virtually or in person! In partnership with the stɑlə̓w̓ Arts & Cultural Society.
Shop Virtually or In-Person
stɑlə̓ w̓ Arts & Cultural Society and Museum of Surrey are delighted to offer a virtual and in-person craft market in 2021.
Virtual Fair: November 12 – December 19, 2021
In-Person Fair: Saturday, November 20, 2021
Learn More
Photo – Facebook

Music for 17 Pedals and 287 Strings!
Coffee Concerts are Back! Spend a Morning Listening to the Melodic Sounds of the Piano and Harp with the Bergmann and Otake Duos…Perfection!
Date: December 10, 2021 11:00am – 12:30pm
Location: Studio Theatre, Surrey Arts Centre, 13750 88 Ave.
Buy Tickets
Photo Credit

A WONDERHEADS Christmas Carol
The holiday classic you love brought to life in a way you never imagined possible!
Date: December 11, 2021 7:00pm – 8:30pm
Location: Main Stage at Surrey Arts Centre, 13750 88 Avenue
Buy Tickets
Photo Credit

FOOTNOTES
Abbotsford Events – https://www.abbotsford.ca/community-events/events-abbotsford/events-calendar
Langley Events – https://www.tourism-langley.ca/events/
Surrey Events – https://www.surrey.ca/news-events/events
Main Photo Unsplash
Photos – Please contact us for credit or removal rod@impactintl.net

abbotsford October 5, 2021

Looking for a Fraser Valley Pumpkin Patch?

Looking for a local pumpkin patch in Fraser Valley, British Columbia? Scroll down and see several that we could find. Visiting these farms is a fun family activity and most of the venues have extra activities like hayrides, corn mazes, petting zoos, baking, and food.

If you know of one that we missed, please let us know! Also, always call or check out the venue’s website before you go to confirm the information. Note: Please call ahead, or check their website for dates and times. This article was printed in 2021.

Pumpkin Patch at Aldor Acres @aldoracres
DESCRIPTION: Come visit Aldor Acres for the Fall Pumpkin Patch & Market!
– Wide variety of Pumpkins of all sorts of different shapes, sizes, & colors
– Farm Market open with fresh produce, preserves, honey, meat, eggs, snacks, & much more
– Open-air animal interactions spread out across 5 acres – pigs, ducks, goats, donkeys, chickens, sheep, bunnies, emus, horses, cows, & much more!
LEARN MORE – https://aldoracresfamilyfarm.ca
VENUE – Aldor Acres Family Farm, 84 Avenue, Langley, BC, Canada

2021 Chilliwack Corn Maze
DESCRIPTION: Along with the corn maze they have pumpkins and hayrides
TIME: Check the website for various times
VENUE: 41905 Yale Rd W, Chilliwack, BC V2R 4J4
WEBSITE: https://chilliwackcornmaze.com/events/

Pumpkin Patch at Eagle Acres @eagleacresdairy
DESCRIPTION: Pumpkin Patch? Let’s GO!!
LEARN MORE – https://eagleacres.tickit.ca/events/11948
LOCATION – Eagle Acres Dairy & Pumpkin Patch, 240 Street, Langley, BC, Canada
PHOTO – @eagleacresdairy

Upick Pumpkin Patch at Krause Berry Farms @krauseberryfarms
DESCRIPTION: Find and pick your own pumpkins or select them from our pre-picked pumpkins.
LEARN MORE – https://www.krauseberryfarms.com
LOCATION: 6179 248th Street, Langley, BC, V4W 1C3
PHOTO: https://www.krauseberryfarms.com

Laity Pumpkin Patch @laitypumpkinpatch
DESCRIPTION: We will be open for the 2021 season from September 30 to October 31, 2021 at each of our TWO locations. New attractions for 2021 have been added to each location. We look forward to seeing you!
VENUE 1 – 21145 128 Ave, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2R9
VENUE 2 – 12725 Laity St, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 5B4
LEARN MORE – https://laitypumpkinpatch.com
PHOTO CREDIT – @laitypumpkinpatch

Pumpkin Patch at Loft Country Farms @loftcountry
DESCRIPTION: Loft Country Farms is excited to be opening its doors as a pumpkin patch for the first time this October! They will have beautiful acres of pumpkin patches, horse-drawn carriage rides, a petting zoo, an Old Western Town, live entertainment and so much more! It is the perfect family fun day in the fall.
LEARN MORE – https://www.loftcountry.org/farms
LOCATION – Loft Country, 248 Street, Langley, BC, Canada
PHOTO CREDIT – @loftcountry

FOOTNOTES
Main photo – @loftcountry https://www.instagram.com/p/CRfy3XpjXPj/
Photos – Please contact us for credit or removal rod@impactintl.net No copyright infringement intended.