Black Pearl Life Style

This website is gives some enlightening tips on dressing, that one might feels are obvious, but easy to forget. It feels more appropriate for office attire, but still an interesting read.  We love this tip: when wearing a tie, the tip 'should reach your waist and cross it a little'. And don't forgot to ensure your socks are long enough not to show flesh when sitting. Lots of great ideas!  Here's the link! https://brightside.me/inspiration-tips-and-tricks/14-dressing-rules-that-everyone-should-learn-once-and-for-all-441210/?utm_source=fb_brightside&utm_medium=fb_organic&utm_campaign=fb_gr_5mincrafts

Our pup Josie suffers from anxiety. Our recent purchase of the 'Thunder Vest' has helped enormously. Using the same principle as the 'swaddle' to soothe new born babies, the Thunder Vest is a tightly fitted vest that can be worn in stressful or anxiety provoking situations.  Josie is highly territorial and the Thunder Vest is proving a valuable tool in allowing her to enjoy her surroundings, including the glorious Niagara Escarpment in Collingwood. Here's a great link! http://www.thundershirt.com/

Here's a great tip to help with cleaning in the kitchen. Use four tablespoons of baking soda in four cups of water in a spray bottle and use abundantly! A great way to spruce up kitchen counters, clean bathrooms and wipe away grime on refrigerators. It's safe for all the family, cheap and effective! Here's the link! http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/g2550/best-cleaning-tips/?

This is a super quick and easy craft, perfect for a Sunday afternoon, making shapes with universal favorite.. Goldfish Crackers! We had Costco's version (organic ducks), but sample principal applies. There are a slew of free print outs available online. I went for the goldfish-embellished alphabet for some dot-to-dot fun. It's a fun, novel way to practice writing with synchronized snacking.  Here's the link! http://www.totschooling.net/2016/04/goldfish-crackers-alphabet-tracing-free.html

The Georgian Trail runs from Harbourview Park in Collingwood to Meaford. Beautifully maintained to ensure year round appeal for those who love the outdoors, the trail stretches as far as the eye can see. If you enjoy running, walking, biking, horse riding or snowshoeing, the trail is a stunning way to experience South Georgian Bay.  Here's the link! http://www.georgiantrail.ca/

To combat the huge expense at the grocery store spent on kids snacks, today we attempted to make our own fruit leather. After a huge amount of the frozen berries were consumed, simmered on the stove, spiced up with some lemon juice, honey and cinnamon and then blended, the puree was ready for the oven...   ....And it's still in the oven 12 hours later! Just wait for the puree to dry and you're good to go. Healthy snacks for weeks! Here's the link to the recipe https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/how_to_make_fruit_leather/

For the hottest spot in Wasaga on a Thursday night, check out St.Louis Win Bar on 45th! It wax almost worth reserving a table. It was busy, there was live music and half price appetizers!  It's a perfect venue for a couple of drinks and quick bite. With very few bars similar in the area, I suspect this bar will be a long term success having just opened last year. The service wasn't great, but that was our only real complaint. Here's the link! https://www.facebook.com/stlouiswasagabeach/

Absolutely one of my favorites since Season 7 of Game of Thrones left us with a fire-y/ icy cliffhanger, The Crown is an incredibly crafted historical drama, giving insight into the life and reign of Queen Elizabeth 11. A tribute to the acting and astonishingly compelling writing, the show is engaging and addictive (It's a Netflix original and perfect candidate for cold weather binge). The costume and production design are a delight. It's easy to sympathize with the characters, which is intriguing, as the Royal Family are often criticized for being 'out of touch'. Claire Foy (The Queen) is a triumph. I suspect the launch of a wonderful career on screen. Well worth the watch. 

We love this tip! The blog attached, suggests that when selling your house, ensure that any high value, statement pieces you have at home, should stay front and center! We have some fantastic vintage accent pieces and antiques in store. This scale would look lovely in an kitchen or on a hall table - this beauty is $45 Here's the link http://www.housebeautiful.com/home-remodeling/interior-designers/tips/g864/decorating-secrets/?slide=5

One of the nicest spots in Collingwood is undoubtedly Sunset Point. Although the majority if currently ice-covered, the road that weaves alongside the water's edge is clear and allows a great view of the frozen landscape.  The various summer amenities are closed during the winter months, however, for those looking for qa wind swept walk in nature, this is a great spot and minutes from Collingwood downtown. Here's a link! https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g181754-d10307774-Reviews-Sunset_Point_Park-Collingwood_Ontario.html

This vintage Coca Cola crate has so many uses. From a toy box, to spice rack to a planter, this rustic accent piece is a great addition to the home. You can check out the link for more ideas and pick up the crate in store for $45!  Here's the link! https://www.pinterest.ca/explore/old-coke-crates/?lp=true https://www.decoratingyoursmallspace.com/7-ways-to-repurpose-old-soda-crates/

We made a fabulous discovery today: Wasaga Tobogganing Park! Totally free, this is a fantastic set up, situated on Wasaga Sands Drive, close to the golf course. With designated parking area and even a port-a-potty, it's easy to stay safe from the road and provides the perfect tobogganing hill for all ages to enjoy.  Overlooking an athletics track, there is no concern about unwanted obstacles and the hill is quite long so the kids picked up great speed on their sleds. Certainly one of the best hills we have found in the area! Here's the link http://tobogganhills.com/hills/296-wasaga-toboggan-park

This is a great tip and lovely opportunity to get the kids involved in the kitchen. By rinsing rice, not only do you clean away any debris, but it makes for fluffy, non-clumpy cooking. Well worth the extra step.  Below is an link to rinsing rice in seven (!) steps. Rice is the stable food source in so many countries and it's interesting to learn about some of the rituals associated with this tasty grain. Here's a couple of great links! https://www.thekitchn.com/yes-you-should-be-rinsing-your-rice-228083 https://www.wikihow.com/Rinse-Rice

I managed to squeeze in a quick run up the escarpment today after dropping the kids and starting work. As you can see from the conditions, it's still very icy underfoot, so I decided to attempt my run using my crampons to ensure footing. I was not unlike my track and field days wearing 'spikes' although a little more heavy duty. It was certainly necessary, especially on the slopes, as the ice was thick and impossible to avoid.    I purchased these crampons on Amazon after an unfortunate tumble on the ice. During the winter, ice is abundant and as many of you will know, takes no prisoners. The crampons give you an extraordinary level of confidence on the ice, with sturdy, penetrating spikes that allow you to glide easily over any difficult terrain. To ensure your enjoyment of this time of year, I would highly recommend crampons, available online or in store such as Sporting Life or Canadian Tire.  Here's the link to the product on Amazon https://www.amazon....

It's yet another re-boot but it's a good one! SpiderMan Homecoming, stars newbie Tom Holland as the charismatic high school student who morphed into superhuman, arachnid hybrid, Spiderman and recruited by the Avengers to save the world.  The film follows Spidey as he matures as a Super Hero, battling petty criminals until he stumbles upon something more sinister (an operation masterminded by 'Vulture' played by Michael Keaton).  Tom Holland is excellent as Peter/ Spiderman. His youthful, restless energy is an amazing combination with the staggering visual effects this movie delivers. The supporting cast are strong with nice cameo spots from his Avengers mentor, Tony Stark ( Robert Downey Jr) and henchman, 'Happy' (Jon Favreau). Worth a watch! http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2250912/

We're having a fairly harsh winter and it's important to stay healthy during these darker, colder months. I love the tips found on this blog (link below) to help keep you healthy from December to March. It's important to keep a sleep schedule. Make sure you find time to get outside, preferably doing some exercise, even a short walk. It will boost your mood. Caffeine may adversely affect your energy levels (beware the dreaded coffee-crash) so depend on that afternoon cuppa if you're on a lower ebb. And we love this tip -have a weekly ritual, such as yoga class or purchase of a small bunch of flowers. It will give you something to look forward to and feel great about! Here's the link! http://www.criticalcactus.com/scientifically-backed-tips-to-beat-the-winter-blues/

Darren reads The Greater Fool with great interest. It's very enlightening if you're interested and following the intricacies of the real estate market.  http://www.greaterfool.ca/  Written by Garth Turner.  Daily posts provide a rich source of information about the housing market in Canada. Great ideas shared, important facts and stats examined and advice given.  For those thinking about finances in the New Year or looking to purchase a home, check out this blog for a new and important perspective. 

We are fortunate enough to have these beautiful signed, original prints from the hand of Ontario born artist, Norval Morrisseau in store. Ojibwa in origin and known as the 'Picasso of the North', Morrisseau used a pictographic style, also known as the 'Woodlands School'. His work is recognized by the thick black outlines and bright colours.  Come and view this wonderful work in person!  Here's some more info https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norval_Morrisseau http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/norval-morrisseau/

A milestone day for Ella - first time on the ice! Thanks to Sk8 Georgian Bay, her first experience was very positive. A team of caring, compassionate students helped the preschoolers one on one to avoid any scary or unfortunate falls which might discourage morale. We've heard great thing about the school and hoping Ella continues to enjoy it.  Here's the link!! http://www.sk8georgianbay.com/

Today we experienced a 'flash freeze' with temperatures dropping from 5oC to -10oC over the course of a few hours. The thaw and subsequent freeze made for terrifying driving conditions. Despite school buses being cancelled, we made a trip into town, a decision that was certainly not without some hairy moments on the roads. Snow tires, slow driving and a 4 x 4 vehicle helped enormously but even with these perks, it's still treacherous on days like this. Stay safe folks! Here's Magnus checking out the winter storm.  And a link to more info from the experts! https://www.insideottawavalley.com/news-story/8049269-special-weather-statement-flash-freeze-warning-in-effect-for-lanark-county/

We made banana bread today due to excess bananas going bad. I've been substituting sugar ( this recipe called for one cup of sugar) with agave syrup. Agave is sweet and makes for a nice change to granulated sugar.  Made from the Agave plant and commonly used in Mexico, Agave syrup is a wonderful alternative, particularly in baking. It's sweeter than sugar so you need less than table sugar in order to get a similar flavor. We found ours at the Canadian Superstore! Here's the link to the recipe! http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/classic-banana-bread https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agave_nectar

As the Winter Session began at the fabulous 'Head over Heels' gymnastics club this week, the kids are enjoying the great program and facilities that they offer. While Ella joins the 'Kindergym' group, Magnus has started Parent and Tot, as well as joining the drop in program in the mornings. It was a great introduction and he was thrilled. Gymnastics is a wonderful way for kids to build confidence, learn important life skills such as team work, conflict resolution and taking turns and keep fit! I have been impressed by the dedication of the staff as well as their focus and compassion with the kids. All in all, an enriching and worthwhile experience. Here's the link to the gym http://www.headoverheelsgymnastics.ca/

Feeling stressed? Pet you pup! Massaging your pet gives them great joy and can also reduce your stress by up to 75%. Experts recommend massage as opposed to 'hugging' your pet, as this can alarm them and make them feel trapped and threatened.  Having mealtimes around or near your pet can improve eating patterns which is apparently linked to companionship.  Introducing our pet at Black Pear Emporium, Josie The Puli! Here's the link to more great tips https://www.today.com/health/5-ways-pets-can-ease-your-stress-6C10423970

We always have costume jewelry in store and sometimes, some rarer and more expensive pieces make an appearance too. Here are some great tips to clean your jewelry, especially pieces that have been sitting for a while, maybe gathering a little dust.  We love this tip - dip your jewelry in a glass of fizzing Alka-Selza, apparently they will be sparkling clean after a couple of minutes in this gemstone spa bath.  Soak your gems (even diamonds) in club soda! They will be shiny in the morning! Here are some more tips - a great blog! https://www.rd.com/home/cleaning-organizing/cleaning-jewelry/

The past few weeks have been debilitating cold. When the temperature gauge falls below minus 20, it's crucial to bundle up before heading outside or risk frost bite (or worse). At a balmy -12oC today, I was able to get out with the kids. Here are some great tips I was reading about today! Always wear a hat. Apparently it's a myth that 80% of your body heat is lost through your head, however heat IS lost through any exposed area, so wear those woolens! Another wonderful tip in the link below is 'bake all day' - presumably so your oven will add warmth the home and the cookies will add warmth to your belly. A delightful idea!  Here's the link! http://mentalfloss.com/article/60076/12-toasty-tips-staying-warm-cold-weather

 Blue Mountain Pottery was a local company, now closed, but the works are very well known throughout Canada. The celebrated design features a familiar glaze, using light and dark colours, most famously green but also in reds, browns and yellow hues.  There is now a collectors club ( see link below) and we almost always have a few pieces in store. Here are some of our lovely works currently on display!  Here's a great link! http://www.bmpcc.com/

It's hard to play outside when it's minus 30... so why not bring the snow inside! This was an improvised craft using snow and food colouring. I'll invest in some snow-specific paint next time. Food colouring was fun, but didn't quite mix and blend like paint. Here's a video of the snow/painting frenzy.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hlqz0HNForg&feature=youtu.be