Wolfville Food Tours: A fun and yummy afternoon with friends
Wolfville Food Tours: A fun and yummy afternoon with friends
**Disclosure: I received a ticket to this event in exchange for this blog post. Plus, I love going to things to support friends who are doing interesting things! All opinions are my own, but some of the pictures are my friend’s.**
Jeremy Novak has done it again!
I met Jeremy through Valley Ghost Walks when I worked with him to write some of the scripts. We’ve remained friends, trying to support each other in our entrepreneurial activities!
Jeremy is the host of Valley Ghost Walks and also the main guide on the Magic Wine Bus in Wolfville, and now has created the Wolfville Food Tours.
So, when Jeremy suggested I come with him on a Wolfville Food Tour, I jumped at the chance!
Wolfville is a culinary hotspot in the Annapolis Valley with over 21 eateries to entice the most famished foodie.
Wolfville Food Tours helps navigate through the abundance of culinary choice with samples at each location. This flavourful journey will leave your taste buds satisfied and have you making a list of where to visit again tomorrow.
Our group gathered at Just Us! in Wolfville to start our tour. And, it was wonderful to discover that we all new each other!
I brought my friend, Lia, who is very involved with the Devour Food Film Festival in Wolfville. It was right up her alley!
Carla Dunham makes the most amazing jewelry and can be found at the Wolfville Farmers’ Market. We also used to live across the street from each other!
Angela Jenkins can also be found at the Wolfville Farmers’ Market under Sister Lotus, who uses herbs to make everything from salt scrubs to medicinal salves.
It was with this crew that we set out on our Wolfville Food Tour.
Read my recent article in the Advertiser.
We spent the next 3 hours touring 8 different restaurants in Wolfville! At each stop, Jeremy gave us the story and history behind each restaurant. He talked about the different menu items available, and what ingredients were locally sourced.
At most places, a staff member or the chef came to talk to us further about the restaurant.
“I’ve lived here all my life, and I’m still learning new things!” ~ Carla
The best part was that each restaurant we got to sample some of the menu items!
Each item was carefully selected to best represent the restaurant/cafe and maybe expose participants to items they might not have considered ordering before.
Part of the fun of the afternoon was that we had no idea where we were going next! We purposely asked Jeremy not to tell us, so we could be surprised.
The list of restaurants are subject to change, as are the menu items that you get to sample. But, here’s where we stopped, and a huge shout-out to those participating restaurants!
We had an amazing afternoon, hanging out together, laughing, eating, and trying new things on menus, we might not have otherwise.
We have often talked about doing a restaurant hop, but this way is so much easier! The food is ready when you arrive, and you don’t have to pay for anything, as it’s all included in your ticket price (unless you want to order a drink at some of the locations).
When you think of Wolfville Food Tours, don’t think of it as something only for tourists. It’s a great way to support our local restaurants and entrepreneurs, have some delicious food, and have a great afternoon out with friends.
For an even better glimpse of what your food tour will be like, check out this short video clip!
Tickets and Bookings
Wolfville Food Tours run through Where’s it At tours at times selected by restaurants as being the least busy. This way, you are more guaranteed to get a seat and a chat with the chef!
TIP: Do NOT each lunch before you go! Have a snack, but you will be so full, you won’t want to eat supper afterwards, either!
Ticket Types: No-Restriction, Vegetarian, & Pescetarian available up until evening before the tour.
*Special-Diet tickets available up until the 8pm evening before the tour. Please contact them at time of purchase.
Kids: Older youth might enjoy the Wolfville Food Tours, especially if they are willing to try new food. However, as a mother, I really enjoyed leaving my children at home and using it as a time to eat slowly, enjoying adult conversation in a relaxed environment!
Other great tours and services from Where’s It At
We highly recommend Wolfville Food Tours either as a date, a time with girlfriends, or a staff outing. It’s a really fun way to spend an afternoon.
I’m really proud of my friend Jeremy for bringing another great experience to the area!
Help your body feel better with Mia Lockhart Massage Therapy Clinic
Help your body feel better with Mia Lockhart Massage Therapy Clinic
**Disclosure: I received a massage in exchange for this blog post. The things I endure to tell you about great services in our area! All opinions are my own!**
Look out below for your chance to win a free massage!
The instant you walk into the massage therapy clinic in Wolfville and meet Mia Lockhart, you will know you have come to the right place.
All your worries and troubles are left at the door, as you step in and are greeted by soothing music, calming colours and decor, and friendly therapists.
I have been to Mia several times and have always felt so much better after leaving. In the past, I have had a Whole Balance treatment with Mia.
This time, Mia suggested I come visit her newly opened clinic in Wolfville.
This time, it would be a Massage Therapy treatment, with additions of myofascial work, reflexology and cranial sacral therapy included. This, she said, would show how she approaches each unique body, integrating everything she has learned in her treatments.
Here’s what else Mia says about her treatments:
In my 15 years of practice, I’ve been known to rock at intuitively releasing muscle tension in a way that renders my clients into blissful relaxation and long term healing.
From sciatica, low back pain, headaches, shoulder injuries, fibromyalgia, TMJ, gout, knee injuries, whiplash, chronic fatigue, depression, hormone balancing, chronic pain, general shoulder pain, prenatal & postnatal and much more – I am there to help you regain your health, mobility and ultimately the happiness you deserve.
Mia mentioned that many of her clients are now teenagers. They put so much wear and tear on our bodies through sport, or become so stressed with school, that it is good to teach them to take care of themselves from an early age.
Mia started the session by explaining the procedure, asking me about any health concerns or what I would like out of the treatment, specifically.
Mia Lockhart Massage Therapy offers direct billing for insurance, too! Visit her in Wolfville behind Tim Hortons! Share on XMia immediately instills a sense of calmness in you, that is perfect for someone like me who is always wound up, and has trouble calming the mind.
I told her I just wanted everything that she did!
Throughout the hour-long session, Mia started working on my back, which was heavenly for someone who sits hunched at a computer most of the time!
Reflexology is always one of my favourite parts, and every time I have it done, I find different parts of my body that need working. Sometimes it’s my spine, but today, it was my solar plexus and chest muscles – again, probably from hunching at a computer, and needing to take the time to JUST BREATHE.
She ended by working on my head, and causing an overwhelming sense of calm to come over me that lasted the whole day.
I cannot wait to go back for another treatment, and have already told several people to head there, soon! You will not regret it!
I love Mia’s philosophy of taking care of the whole body, and taking time for yourself.
Mia is a person who radiates goodness, and you can’t help but immediate feel calm in her presence.
Plus, she has started an incredible program in the Valley for teenaged girls called Girls on Boards.
“On a mission to empower girls to love their bodies, trust their core and lead the way. Sponsored body positive SUP trips for teens.
Girls On Boards is here to empower tomorrow’s female leaders by building their confidence today.
We sponsor paddle boarding trips for teen girls to help them relearn how to trust themselves, love their bodies and paddle their own journey.”
Oh, and she’s a great yoga teacher, too!
Mia is all about helping people feel better about themselves and in themselves, in whatever way she can. Massage therapy is part of that journey.
Book today
Mia Lockhart Massage Therapy has an easy online booking system.
Simply go online to book your length of massage, or whether you just want reflexology (which I also highly recommend!) and if you need the student or senior rate.
When you come in, Mia will build your massage appointment based on what you need at the moment, combining all her various techniques.
The Reclaim Wellness # is:902-697-3377 or her # 902-300-6410.
Mia Lockhart Massage offers direct billing for insurance, too!
I need to try out Mia Lockhart Massage Therapy in Wolfville! @mommamia4 @doitinwolfville Share on XLocation
Mia Lockhart Massage is located at 360 Main St, Unit 19, in Wolfville. This is right beside Cuts Market, behind Tim Hortons.
Just look for the Lahara Yoga sign!
Book your appointment today! What are you waiting for?
Axe Throwing at Halimac in Kentville is Family Fun
Axe Throwing at HaliMac in Kentville is Family Fun
**Disclosure: Our family received a session of axe throwing at HaliMac in Kentville in exchange for this blog post. All opinions are our own.**
“That was the best night ever!”
Our whole family agreed. Best. Night. Ever.
HaliMac Axe throwing just opened this fall in the Cornwallis Inn, in Kentville. I drove by almost on a daily basis, and wondered what it was all about.
Do you just drop in? or, do you have to book?
Is it ok for kids to go, too?
If I had these questions, I knew others would, too. I decided to do some investigative journalism and find out just how HaliMac worked.
Here, Daniel takes you on a first-hand tour through his YouTube video!
Book a Session
Yes, you do have to book a session. It’s so easy.
Go to their website and choose your date, time, and number of people going with you.
When you arrive, you will need to sign a waiver. These are in the entrance way. Or, you can fill it out online.
It’s a great setup from there. If you are +19, you can head straight through the bar area to pay and order a drink.
Or, if you are a minor, there is a separate hallway to avoid the bar area, to take you right to the axe throwing area.
Before you start, a staff member will go over the safety rules with you, and teach you how to throw the axes.
“I had no idea it would be so easy to throw, and so safe!” Thomas, 9.
There are lines on the floor to show you where to throw from, but younger children are encouraged to go closer.
The aim is for them to feel confident and have them sink axes, rather than be frustrated, explained the staff.
We were provided with one lane, which had 2 throwing stations.
Then, we started to throw – trying with two hands, then one hand, and finally with the bigger axe. The kids and I stuck with the 2-handed smaller axe throwing.
I have to admit… I KICKED everyone’s BUTT!!
I have found my new cathartic activity! There is something about clearing your mind, and focusing only on the task at hand, and perhaps releasing some pent up frustrations!
This was an amazingly fun family night. It was great because we were all at an equal skill level. Although we did keep score near the end, we had fun just throwing the axes.
“Are you having fun?” I asked Daniel (11). “No,” he said. “Because I know we have to leave eventually!”
Ages
There are so many safety precautions set up, and staff are there to guide and monitor you the whole time.
We were lucky to have Steven who gave us pointers, and showed us some amazing trick shots, too!
Children as young as 5 or 6 have come to throw axes. It’s probably best for ages 8+ though.
You know your children best.
Family Rates
This booking is for those awesome axe-throwing families! You can book this so long as there is at least one parent and three siblings (brothers, sisters, half-siblings, all of whom are between 8-16). Of course, 2 parents and 2 kids are welcome as well! Throwing axes is a ton of fun! We recommend children be over 8 years of age.
Family price of $39.95 plus tax for a Sunday afternoon from 2:00-6:00 pm, for a one hour booking.Did you know? Sunday from 2-6 there is a $40 family rate at HaliMac Axe Throwing in Kentville? MUST check it out! @halimac_axes Share on X
Birthday Parties
YES! HaliMac does birthday parties! What could be more fun than a kids getting together to throw axes? Best birthday party ever!
Children under 13 are $12.95 each (stc) for a one-hour session. They will set up tables and a food area for you. You can bring all your snacks and drinks with you.
They are also hosting staff parties, bachelorette parties (although I think divorce parties might be fun, too!) You name it, they can host it.
Birthday parties at HaliMac in Kentville! You bet! @halimac_axes Share on X
Our Tips for going with Kids (and maybe adults, too!)
Go. Don’t knock it until you try it. It’s achievable, safe, and a heck of a lot of fun!
Start by booking in with a small group. The boys had a hard time wanting anyone else to have a turn! They were having too much fun. With more people, you would have fewer turns. (Or, book a large group with 2 lanes and 4 throwing spots)
Track the time. Track the number of throws, or use a timer on the phone to let people know when to switch turns if you are not playing an actual game. This reduces a lot of argument!
Bring snacks. There is beer, wine and pop at the bar. You have to drink it in the bar area, but you can bring your own snacks with you. There is not a kitchen on site. Munchies are allowed.
Just go!
Hours, Location and Prices
HaliMac is located in the mezzanine area of the Cornwallis Inn in Kentville.
Hours and prices are subject to change. Always check the website.
For more fun than you can shake a Stick AXE at, head to HaliMac in Kentville for some amazing family fun.
We will be back to HaliMac
for some more axe-throwing-family fun!
Enjoy Hutt’s Marsh Trail in Grafton NS
Enjoy Hutt’s Marsh Trail in Grafton NS
Hutt’s Marsh is the Valley’s newest hidden gem that has just opened to the public this past month.
I first discovered about the trail in an article in the Valley Harvester. We knew we had to check it out!
With the co-operation of the landowners, Hutt’s Marsh has been a Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) wetland site for more than 30 years. However, this summer the site received some significant upgrades from DUC and the Municipality of Kings County Trails Assistance program. Volunteers built an outdoor classroom shelter with some picnic tables and a one-kilometre trail to improve access to the marsh.
Where to go
Hutt’s Marsh is located on the Black Rock Road in Grafton. When driving North, it is on the right hand side of the road, just before you get to Brooklyn Street.
It is just beyond Civic Address 2550.
Look for a small parking area in front of a pond with a yellow gate. There is no sign yet.
The trail around the marsh starts to the left. The first section is crushed gravel until it merges with a farm road.
Veer towards the path behind the shed and you will pass a covered picnic area.
and then the sign to the marsh.
You will then end up on a floating dock and view point.
The walk to this point is about 200m or 5 minutes. It’s completely accessible by toddlers and an “off-road” stroller.
It is so pretty, and would make a great place to explore the pond.
We were also blessed by a migrating Canada geese overhead!
To continue the loop, walk a couple of steps beyond the floating dock, and take the path to your right. When we went, it was marked by orange hunting tape, but is a really obvious path.
Follow this along the back of the marsh.
Then, the path will fork. We ASSUME the path to the left leads to the elementary school, but the path to the right takes you back to the main road.
When you return to the main road, turn right, and it’s about a 2 minute walk back to the car.
In total, the round-trip hike took us about 15- 20 minutes and was less than 1km. On a nice day, it would be great to take your time to explore the plant, bird and pond life around you.
Check out Hutt's Marsh Trail in Grafton - a new 1km hike to explore the beautiful marsh! Share on XWe are so lucky to have these resources in our community! Congratulations to Ducks Unlimited and the community for making this happen!
Osteopathy and Children at the Valley Massage Therapy Clinic in Kentville
NOW CLOSED: Osteopathy and Children at the Valley Massage Therapy Clinic in Kentville
*Disclosure: My so received a treatment in exchange for this blog post. By doing these, we get to try new things to help teach others. All opinions are our own.*
See the bottom of this post for your chance to WIN a free osteopathy session!
I have always had great service at the Valley Massage Therapy Clinic in Kentville, and love going there.
Read my review about my massage experience!
When the clinic contacted me about coming in with the boys for an osteopathy appointment, we jumped at the chance to try something new.
We decided to give the appointment to Thomas, 9. He’s a very rough-playing kid with a high pain threshold who has had many injuries. Also, since he was a baby he has suffered from digestion problems.
Although he wasn’t presenting with any specific ailments, we wanted to see what would be said about him.
What is Osteopathy?
That was one of our main questions. What is it, exactly, how does it work, and what will happen when we are there?
Osteopathy embraces the philosophy that the body has an innate, natural ability to self-regulate and to heal itself. Osteopathy is a form of drug-free, non-invasive manual medicine that focuses on total body health by treating and strengthening the musculoskeletal framework, which includes the joints, muscles and spine. Its aim is to positively affect the body’s circulatory and lymphatic systems.
This therapy is a unique holistic (whole body) approach to health care. Osteopaths do not simply concentrate on treating the problem area, but use manual techniques to balance all systems of the body, to provide overall good health and wellbeing.
Osteopathic practitioners treat all ages (newborns to seniors).
Our Osteopathic Practitioner
We were warmly greeted by practitioner, Meike Dornieden.
Meike is a Registered Osteopath offering osteopathic treatments and care for all age groups including newborns.
Meike graduated from the School of Classic Osteopathic Medicine in Switzerland in 2005, after she had been practicing as a physiotherapist since 1998.
Osteopathy has allowed Meike to find her passion with Pediatric Osteopathy.
She has established an osteopathic newborn checkup in Swiss hospitals where she treated newborns right after delivery.
Thomas Talks about his Osteo Treatment
Hi, my name is Thomas and I will be talking about a story that happened to me so the date was Friday November 10, 2017 it was a day of school and I went to this osteo place.
Before I went in, I felt nervous because I didn’t know if I wanted to do it.
First, she had me stand up and she checked my shoulders. Then, she checked my hips. Then, she laid me down on a bed to check my back, neck, feet, hips and stomach.
She checked my mouth by taking a glove and putting a finger in my mouth and pushing on the sides of my mouth.
Some parts felt uncomfortable, but she always asked me how I was feeling. Sometimes it tickled.
I felt really relaxed the entire time.
It felt the best when she was rubbing the muscles on my ribs.
She explained everything to me the whole time what she was doing. It felt nice when she explained things to me. She was mostly talking to me, rather than Mom, the whole time about what was happening.
You shouldn’t feel nervous about going because it’s not scary.
Notes from the Parent
Meike immediately made Thomas feel at ease, and she has a wonderful rapport with children, maybe because she has 3 sons of her own!
Meike started by taking a detailed case history about Thomas from his injuries to health problems and habits. As she worked on Thomas, she explained to us both, mostly him – treating him as the patient – what she was doing, and why.
At the beginning of the session, she showed me how Thomas was lopsided, with one shoulder and hip being higher than the other. By the end of the session, she showed me again, how they were once again even!
Parents are always in the room with the child, unless it is a teenager who does not want a parent present! I immediately felt relaxed and calm, just being there, and feeding off what she was doing to Thomas.
What conditions can Osteopathy treat?
Osteopathy can be used to treat a specific issue, or a preventive health measure for numerous conditions including, but not limited to:
- Back, neck, head and jaw problems
- Circulatory problems
- Decrease stress and tension
- Digestive, respiratory and menstrual problems
- Circulatory problems
- Increased range of motion
- Nerve pain, sciatica, tingling an numbness
- Postural problems
- Soft tissue injuries: sprains, strains, tendonitis
- Sleep or energy issues
- Pregnancy discomfort, labour preparation and post-natal care including breastfeeding
- Repetitive strain injuries
- Unsettled babies, colic, recurrent ear infections
At Valley Massage Therapy in Kentville, they treat newborns, toddlers, children and their mothers with osteopathy to provide a better basis for pediatric development. Share on X
Do you have a Newborn?
All newborns under a month are invited to the clinic for a FREE 20 minute check up!
To find out more information on osteopathy and how Meike can help you in pregnancy, post-pregnancy, with your newborn or children, or other health concerns contact the Valley Massage Therapy clinic in Kentville!
Book an appointment today!
Valley Massage Therapy Clinic, Kentville
BONUS: There is direct billing for Osteopathy with Medavie Blue Cross!
WIN an Osteopathy Appointment from Valley Massage Therapy Clinic!
This appointment is good for any age group! Draw date: December 1, 2017.
Enter by clicking the image below!
