Canadians love the outdoors. Winter through autumn (yes, that’s how we say it), we spend plenty of time among the woods, mountains and streams. 

We love nature so much that to celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary, each citizen can request a free National Parks Pass.

We Canadians know about outdoor winter safety, emergency preparedness, and first aid. Still, there have been times when we wish we’d brought something else outdoors with us. The perfect tool, treat, or technology to make the day better. Yup, we’ve learned some mighty hard lessons.

Here’s our list of things you might want to take on your next outdoor adventure:

9. Hand Warmers: We happily put up with a lot in Canada to enjoy time outside, but cold fingertips are not high on that list. Sometimes, gloves and mittens alone don’t cut it. And they aren’t practical for certain activities. For those times, we’re glad to have hand warmers. The heat is created by rapidly oxidizing iron inside the packs. But we mainly care about how great it is to have access to literal pockets of warmth all day.

8. A Can Opener: Some resourceful Canadians are able to open a can using a pocket knife or even a rock. But nothing opens cans quite like a can opener, and few forgotten items are more of a pain to do without. You can also take eating outdoors to the next level with the Eat’N Tool, an all-in-one cutlery tool that doubles as both a screwdriver and a wrench!

7. Portable Phone Charger: Some might wonder why you’d need a phone in the woods. There are at least two good reasons. The first is to keep your social media game on point. But the other, of course, is to use the phone in case of emergency. So make sure to bring backup power. That way, you won’t have to worry about using up battery life getting the perfect waterfall shot.

6. A Watch: While it’s true a phone can be great outdoors, for the reasons listed above and others, one thing we hate to be without in the woods is a plain old-fashioned wristwatch. You shouldn’t have to pull your phone out just to check the time. Plus, outdoor and adventure watches often have other handy functions. One of the best features is that they’re generally much more waterproof than a phone!

5. This Survival Bracelet: You can file this under ‘stuff we didn’t know we always wanted until we found out it exists.’ This simple looking bracelet, designed by Gerber with help from Bear Grylls, is more than a fashion statement. It contains 12 feet of incredibly strong nylon paracord. You can use it to get out of any number of scrapes, unless you leave it at home.

4. Adhesive Tensor: It goes without saying you should bring a first aid kit wherever you go. But one thing you’ll be glad to have in it is this adhesive bandage that attaches right to the skin to provide extra joint stability. Since you never know when you’ll twist an ankle, it’s better to just keep this around.

3. Calorie-Dense Snacks: When you’re exerting significant energy outdoors, whether you’re hiking, snowshoeing, sledding, or biking, a hunger-killing snack is just what you need. We’re talking energy bars, dried fruit, granola, that sort of thing. If you don’t pack such a snack, you could easily become fatigued. Or worse, you might get hangry.

2. Duct Tape: Is there a problem duct tape can’t help to solve? Probably. But we haven’t found very many so far. From fixing equipment to patching a tent, and so much more, duct tape absolutely has you covered. We never like to be caught without it in the great outdoors. Actually, we prefer not to be without it anywhere.

1. Fresh Dry Socks: There are so many threats to foot comfort in the Canadian outdoors. Cold weather, combined with more rivers and lakes than any country in the world, means your toes are likely to get wet and/or cold. So you’ll be glad to have an extra pair of socks in your backpack any time of year.

What would you add?

 To find these and other items to prepare for your next outdoor adventure, visit London Drugs in-store or online. Until then, have fun out there and don’t forget to be ready for anything!

2016 marked a year of both peculiar and timeless food trends, advanced fitness technology and questionable fads. With the arrival of 2017, perhaps something a little different is required. If so, we’ve got you covered. Read on for a list of health and nutrition trends to keep in mind—and a few to avoid—to stay on track for a healthy, happy and effortless 2017.

1. Sprouting

According to the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA), sprouting is the first new natural food trend expected to gain attention this year. Not only is sprouting a nutritious way to add nutrient-rich vitamins and minerals in your diet, but you can actually grow sprouts from the comfort of your own home. DIY sprouting is simple and affordable. The CHFA recommends the tiny green mung bean popular in Asian countries, and just one cup provides a full day’s intake of iron. To sprout these yourself, all you need are seeds, an airtight jar and water.

2. Cutting (not quitting) sugar

It may sound tough—if not impossible—to fully eliminate sugar from your diet. One starting point might be to make sure you’re consuming it moderately, since too much sugar is linked to diabetes, heart disease and obesities and can have other lasting effects on the body. Scientists are still debating why exactly sugar should be avoided along with processed foods containing large amounts of sugar. Some studies and doctors will still suggest alternatives like stevia, which contains zero calories and does not cause a blood spike like sugar does. Not a fan of artificial sweeteners? For natural options, honey and dates represent a safe and smart addition to your pantry.

3. Kefir

Another DIY option for the health-conscious: kefir is a fermented milk product with a similar consistency and almost-identical taste to yogurt. It contains 30 different microorganisms, and is a fantastic source of probiotics and prebiotics. Make it at home with milk, kefir cultures and a cheesecloth, and pour over granola or in a smoothie. Kefir is also a great option after a workout to promote healthy digestion.

4. Smart carbs

Another predicted health trend from the CHFA is a surge in smart and healthy carbohydrates. Although many people aim, around the new year, to avoid carbs as much as possible (or at least for as long as possible), it is possible to live a healthy life while following a carb-conscious (but realistic) diet. As long as you’re eating the right carbs, you can safely say no to the guilt. Instead of white bread, reach for bread made with ancient grains, which are nutrient-rich and fibre-packed, and will keep you fuller longer while satisfying your cravings. Or instead of fried potato chips, opt for beet chips or a snack containing complex-carbs. Don’t deny yourself snacks, we say – just snack responsibly.

5. Fitness made fun

A new year almost always involves far-fetched goals of hitting the gym five times a week, or finally kicking that habit of devouring chocolate bars on a nightly basis. But year after year, fitness centres see a drastic dip in membership come February, when real life gets in the way. Instead, set a fun fitness goal that you can train for with a friend. Obstacle courses such as Tough Mudder, the Spartan Race or a more family-friendly race are great places to start. Not only can you avoid boredom by switching up training (think: distance running to sprints, or weight training and yoga), but in the process you may even find something that you love and choose to pursue. If obstacle courses aren’t your cup of tea, there are plenty more opportunities to try out a new fitness trend.

Wondering what trend you should leave behind?

Fat fear

Fat, like carbohydrates, often gets a bad rep. When we think fat, we tend to picture slabs of bacon or blocks of butter. But fat doesn’t necessarily make you fat – as long as you’re  ware of which fats are healthy to consume and which to stay away from. Certain fats, Omega-3s, are found in wild salmon and flax seed. There are also fats that help your body burn food efficiently, such as olive oil and walnuts. Of course, try to limit yourself when it comes to trans fats found in your favourite hamburger or pizza slice. Be mindful of what goes into your body, but don’t limit yourself from what really makes you happy.

The dawn of a new year always provides an excellent reason for stepping back, looking at what’s important to you, and refocusing your energy. For you millennials and the young-at-heart who may struggle especially with staying organized, and resisting the impulse to give in to the temptations of social media and instant gratification, this is especially important. Consider, if you will, the following tips to help you “adult”—and reach your goals—in this new year.

Get your finances in order

Learn to do your taxes. Get a head start this year (and give your accounting friend a break) by investing in an online tax program  or installing tax software. Not only will these easy-to-follow programs help you avoid scrambling at the last minute, but they’ll give you an understanding of basic accounting you were never taught in math class.

Set a budget. It may be the most challenging goal of the year for many, but setting (and keeping) a budget doesn’t have to be as difficult as it seems. There are dozens of simple how-to budgeting tips on the web, but all you really need is access to a spreadsheet and some patience. Make sure to set a savings goal, track your spending and calculate essential and unnecessary expenses. Find more information here.

Invest in yourself. Just because you set up a savings plan and started reconsidering certain luxury purchases, you don’t have to make drastic changes. Even though you cut out buying a latte from your favourite café every day, don’t completely restrict yourself. Instead, invest in a good coffee maker and brew your own in the morning. Also planning on eating out less frequently? Great. But consider setting aside some cash, too, from your grocery savings in order to occasionally treat yourself to a nice dinner at a new or favourite restaurant. Doing so not only offers a good incentive to keep saving, but allows you to indulge once in awhile without breaking the bank.

Set realistic fitness goals

Do what makes you happy. This may seem obvious, but only sign up for a gym membership if you enjoy lifting weights or the specific fitness classes offered. You may otherwise find it tough to stay positive–especially as you put stress on your body. Prone to shin splints or find marathons monotonous? Avoid running. Do you miss your bicycle and are antsy for the weather to warm up? Try out a spin class. Most community centres and fitness studios offer a free week trial, so test out a few locations until you find one that fits. Want to forgo a membership entirely? Pick up a yoga kit or follow a fitness DVD that suits your hobbies in the privacy of your own home.

Keep yourself accountable. In recent years, there has been a boom in fitness technology. If you’re an avid runner and want to improve your race times, invest in a GPS watch with numerous applications to suit your needs. More of a beginner when it comes to keeping active? Make sure you walk at least 10,000 steps a day with a smaller fitness device that covers the basics. Most fitness trackers on the market sync to your phone and allow you to challenge friends and family to some friendly fitness competition. This way, not only are you keeping yourself accountable for making healthy gains, but your friends will as well.

Get social. Although fitness trackers and devices can be huge motivational factors, nothing is more motivating than having a friend along for the ride (or run, or swim). Grab a friend and map out a local hiking trail, and make sure it’s open to the public and safe this time of year. Convince your roommate, partner or friend to try a new sport or activity that you’ve always thought would be fun. Or better yet, set a challenge and follow a workout plan together. Time goes by much more quickly with someone by your side to keep you motivated.

Keep it simple and organized

Storage is essential. Put your Tetris skills to use this year by organizing the messy areas of your house that cause you stress. This usually includes the kitchen, workspace, bathroom and bedroom. Although the old adage out of sight, out of mind may work for some, we say that clear storage bins are the way to go. Canisters that are easily stackable or slender are perfect to ensure freshness and make it easy for the household cook to grab what they need. Jars are ideal for smaller items like spices, and are extremely versatile. Use them to hold paper clips on your desk or Q-tips on the sink. Wicker baskets are also a great— and aesthetically pleasing—way to hold random household items like workout gear, bags or toys in plain sight.

Meal planning is not just for fitness gurus. There’s no need to purchase an expensive custom-meal plan from a dodgy website or infomercial. Meal planning is as simple as picking up a cookbook or scrolling through a food blog. Once a week, set aside some time to choose five to six meals that will get you through the week (leave one or two days for flexibility). Do the math and make sure you have enough food for leftover lunches and for anyone else who might be eating with you. Write out the ingredients you need for each recipe, consolidate the supplies you already have, and take a quick trip to the grocery store. If you have more time on your hands, or have a hectic week ahead of you, opt for large-batch slow cooker meals and prep the ingredients the night before. If you’re feeling even more keen, cook all the meals for your week in one day, divide into containers and refrigerate.

Reduce, reuse, recycle. We’ve got you covered with London Drugs’ Green Deal recycling program at our stores. With a receipt, you can bring back old electronics, batteries, plastic bags and bottles to do your part to reduce waste. Sort your home recyclables and compost with recycling bins and food scrap containers to make it easier to take out with the trash. Make sure you check which items are in fact compostable or not, and remember to switch out the bags to avoid unnecessary odours.

Be kind to yourself

Spend time with loved ones. Whether it’s only for an hour to grab coffee with an old classmate from college, or by throwing a huge holiday party, make sure to set aside time for your friends. Haven’t talked to your grandmother across the country in a few months? Pick up the phone! Social circles tend to shrink with life additions like full-time employment, children and other commitments, but it’s critical to have a support system behind you. Plan a board game night with former colleagues or host a potluck brunch. Mix up some cocktails and fill each other in on what you’ve missed.

Give back on your computer or at a charity event with friends. Pick a cause that resonates with you and sign up to volunteer in whatever way you’d like, or simply donate money to an organization that needs it. Selfless love will not only make you feel good, but it will help contribute to a cause you believe in.

Make time for self-care. Perhaps the most overlooked, yet most important, tip of the year is to take time for yourself. While self-care and mindfulness have become buzzwords of sorts, they still pack a lot of truth when it comes to being happy. No matter how frantic work or school is, reserve at least half an hour a day for yourself. Pick up a book, drink some tea, relax in a bath or colour out any anxiety you may have built up over the day. Being an adult doesn’t mean neglecting the things that centre you – even if that means vegging out on the couch to watch a movie. Make 2017 an amazing year by balancing responsibility and order with awareness and leisure.

Orphan #8 by Kim van Alkemade
In 1919, four-year-old Rachel Rabinowitz is placed in the Hebrew Infant Home where Dr. Mildred Solomon is conducting medical research on the children. Dr. Solomon subjects Rachel to an experimental course of X-ray treatments that establish the doctor’s reputation while risking the little girl’s health. Now it’s 1954 and Rachel is a nurse in the hospice wing of the Old Hebrews Home when elderly Dr. Solomon becomes her patient. Realizing the power she holds over the helpless doctor, Rachel embarks on a dangerous experiment of her own design. Before the night shift ends, Rachel will be forced to choose between forgiveness and revenge.
Inspired by true events, Orphan #8 is a powerful novel about the human capacity to harm – and to love.

Reviews
Orphan #8 is a very interesting story that is hard to read at times knowing that it is loosely based on the author’s family history. It’s the story of a girl growing up in an orphanage in the U.S. in the 20’s. Story goes back and forth between her childhood and her as an adult. I enjoyed this book a lot, especially the history behind it. – Review by Carolynn

Loosely based on historical events, Orphan #8 tells the story of Rachel, a woman who has faced considerable hardships in her life. Told in 2 time lines, we learn along with Rachel that she was subjected to cruel medical experiments as a child. As she unravels the truth about her past, will she choose revenge or mercy, and are those the same thing?
Overall, I thought the book was pretty engaging. I read it over a couple days. However, the plot twists were somewhat predictable and the novel feels unresolved at the end.  – Review by Melissa

Captivating story based on factual events and places and is full of ethical issues. From the time Rachel is put in an orphanage at 4 years old to the nurse she becomes as an adult, she endures so much that it is a credit to her strength and fortitude. Going through medical experiments as a child by a doctor and then coming full circle where she holds the fate of the aged doctor in her own hands. She also has to deal with a moral dilemma regarding her feelings and ‘unnatural’ relationship with her protector from the home. An easy read, especially interesting because of the historical references. – Review by Janice

Book of the Month
Every month we will be featuring a new book to be showcased in our Book of the Month. Staff members and friends will be reading the book and posting their reviews. We’d love to hear what you thought of these books as well. Post your comments and let us know.

Orphan #8 is available at London Drugs along with many other great titles and is on sale for the month of January.

The winter solstice is behind us, the days are again lengthening, and we find ourselves beginning the project of a new year. Just about everywhere you look you’ll find optimistic and helpful suggestions for how to make 2017 your best year yet–often by creating a ‘new you’ for the new year.

Perhaps, though, novelty has its limits. “Everything old is new again,” runs the old adage. “There is nothing new under the sun.”

Well, we may not be able to turn back time, but we can draw inspiration from it. As Matthew McConaughey observed, “Sometimes, you gotta go back to actually move forward.”

In that spirit, we offer four ways you can make 2017 your best year yet—not by glancing anxiously at the future, but by calmly examining the past.

In other words, the answer just may be introducing an old you for the new year.

YOUR OLD BODY

We’re willing to place two bets right now:

1. There definitely was a year you were in the best shape of your life.
2. You probably weren’t aware it at the time. (Beauty and strength are peaks best viewed from a distance.)

Without guilt, cast your mind back to that time now. Something got you to that state of fitness—what was it? A regimen of weights or stretching? A sport or outdoor activity? Hiking or swimming, jogging or cycling, yoga, Tai Chi, or [fill in the blank]?

No one’s expecting you in 2017 to beat a path directly back to your physical prime. But perhaps you can rediscover the habits that supported it. Your body—a machine that grows stronger in response to stress—is the most amazing piece of technology you’ll ever own.

YOUR OLD MIND

Perhaps you remember an afternoon of absorption in…that book—yes, that one. A Penguin classic, wasn’t it? One of the slimmer volumes, dogeared and spine-broken, its pages marked with highlighter and scribbled notes in the margins?

Heady days, weren’t they? A time of excitement and possibility, a time when the world had yet to assert itself as a series of routines, when you were freer to find yourself in it, and recognize yourself when you did. This is the old mindset that’s worth cultivating in the new year.

It might be the act of pulling a dusty favourite from the shelf, or getting around to one of the novels you always intended to, whether the masterwork of E. Annie Proulx (misplaced yours? We’ve got you covered) or Marcel Proust (better found in a library).

YOUR OLD HOME

Family is perhaps a touchy subject so soon after the holidays, whether the discomfort is born of feast or famine. But if, as the Girl Scouts say, we must make new friends (because they’re silver) and keep the old (gold), how precious a metal is family?

Rubber loses its elasticity over time. People do, too. (Luckily, for humans, the process is reversible.) In the spirit of moving forward by going back, call to mind a time from the less complicated past, and make 2017 the year you make an open-hearted entreaty to a loved one grown distant.

YOUR OLD WORK

For many of us, small irritations can erode what satisfaction we take from our work. The dreariness of meetings, perhaps a too-stern boss, coworkers who nick your lunch from the fridge—the classic death of a thousand paper cuts.

Irritation is seductive, because it plays to a feeling of having been unfairly treated. To be irritated is to believe we’re being deprived of something we deserve.

But it’s a destructive instinct, argues Seth Godin, and one of the least useful human emotional responses. “People in true distress are never irritated,” he says. “Someone who is hungry or drowning or fleeing doesn’t become irritated.”

No—she faces her challenges directly and with energy. Make 2017 the year you do the same (again). And happy new year!

The holidays are a time steeped in nostalgia, with memories of Christmases past around every corner. And even though you may have made gingerbread houses, strung lights and sung carols for as long as you can remember, you can always make room for a few new fun traditions to share with your family and friends this year. Here are a few ideas, from our family to yours.

Capture the Magic – And Keep Capturing It

You may already take a holiday picture with the special people in your life. This year, consider taking it up a notch by taking the photo in a location you can return to year after year. Or if you really want to have a laugh, try wearing the same outfits each year (no matter how small they get). Imagine how entertaining it will be to review the timeline of photos when they’re printed out and displayed as the years go on.

The Christmas Pickle

Add some healthy competition to your Christmas morning by hiding a decoration in the shape of a pickle somewhere on your tree. The first person to find it wins a special present — and you get a good laugh guessing who will see it first. Legend has it (or is it a myth?) that this custom was started in Germany when Moms and Dads would save the pickle as the last ornament to be hung on the tree. You may stumble on a pickle ornament, but if not, get creative and make one for yourself with construction paper and ribbon!

A Fresh and Clean New Year

The folks in Jamaica prefer to spruce up the house over the holidays instead of tackling cleaning in the spring. Consider it: you can take advantage of having all your family in one place and get to work creating a sparkling clean canvas for the year to come. Remember: any task can become fun for the family when the Christmas tunes are cranked and the treats are tasty.

The Gift of Giving

A great idea for a stocking stuffer: a donation to a charity of the recipient’s choice. This could be an especially wonderful tradition to start with the little ones, as it’ll give you a chance to discuss the idea of charity, while they get to take the time to think about what causes interest them. It’s also a simple way to explore what the holiday spirit is all about – giving to those in need without the expectation of anything in return.

Throw a Party

If the holidays are all about spending time with the ones you love, why not get them all in one place for a night of merriment? Invite your friends and family to bring along their favourite Christmas dish, while you provide the warm setting. Spend the evening sharing stories, laughs and ideas, and you just may find inspiration for your Christmas list of traditions for years to come.