We’re in Parksville with the family right now, and last night I hosted one of those dinners that reminded me that the best gatherings don’t have to be perfectly planned or overly fancy. Sometimes, all you need is a little creativity, a table full of fresh food, and the people you love.

From Beach Walks to the Dinner Table

One of my favorite parts of our time here has been collecting shells with my nieces. We gathered them along the beach and decided to turn our little seaside treasures into something special for dinner: handmade shell place holders.

We decorated the shells, personalized them with names, and used them to mark everyone’s place at the table. Each one was completely unique, and I loved that something we found together by the ocean became part of our family dinner.

It’s such a simple summer activity to do with kids, too. Collect your favorite shells, clean and dry them, then decorate them with paint, colorful patterns, or each guest’s name. Suddenly, you have a beautiful, personal table detail—and a keepsake to remember the day.

A Surfboard for a Dinner Table? Absolutely.

For dinner, we took the coastal theme one step further and used a surfboard as our dining table. It was casual, unexpected, and absolutely perfect for a summer evening by the water.

I made a spread of fresh salads alongside pasta, vegetables, and other dishes for everyone to share. Nothing too formal—just colorful, fresh food served family-style while everyone gathered around the table.

Looking down that long table and seeing everyone together was probably my favorite part of the evening. My husband was there, along with his parents—Nana and Grampy—and the rest of the family. These are the moments I want to remember: plates full of food, conversations overlapping, people laughing, and the ocean just steps away.

Nana (Right) and Grampy (Left), My husband (middle)

And Then Came the Cake-Off…

Of course, we couldn’t end the day without a little friendly competition!

My nieces, nephew, and I had our own family cake-off, and things got wonderfully creative—and a little messy. We baked and decorated cakes with berries, colorful sprinkles, frosting, and plenty of personality.

Were they bakery-perfect? Definitely not. But that was exactly the point.

There was frosting everywhere, decorations piled high, and so much laughter along the way. By the time we started cutting into the cakes, the table looked like a delicious disaster. And I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

The Kind of Summer I Want to Remember

This trip has reminded me that some of the best memories come from making something out of what’s already around us.

Shells collected during a walk became personalized place holders. A surfboard became our dinner table. Fresh ingredients became a beautiful family feast. A simple baking activity became a hilarious cake competition with my nieces and nephew.

It wasn’t about creating a picture-perfect dinner. It was about creating something together.

And somewhere between collecting shells, tossing salads, decorating cakes, and sitting around the table with Nana, Grampy, my husband, and our family, we created the kind of summer evening I know I’ll look back on and smile.

Because sometimes, the most beautiful tables aren’t the fanciest ones—they’re the ones where everyone you love has a place.

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Tucked into a peaceful corner of the event, Jenna, a licensed acupuncturist from Peace of Nature Acupuncture, welcomed guests for ear acupuncture sessions. As people stepped away from the excitement of the event, they found a quiet space to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with themselves.

Meeting Jenna

Before the treatments began, Jenna explained the fascinating concept behind auricular (ear) acupuncture.

Holding an ear acupuncture model covered with tiny pressure points, she shared how different areas of the ear correspond to different systems throughout the body. It’s remarkable to see how one small part of the body can represent the whole person.

Her calm presence immediately put people at ease, making even first-time visitors feel comfortable asking questions and trying something new.

What Is Ear Acupuncture?

Ear acupuncture is a specialized form of acupuncture based on the idea that the ear contains mapped points connected to various organs and body systems.

Using tiny, sterile needles placed at carefully selected points, practitioners like Jenna aim to support the body’s natural balance and encourage relaxation. Many people include auricular acupuncture as part of their overall wellness routine for stress management, mindfulness, and general well-being.

While everyone’s experience is different, many people describe the treatment as deeply relaxing.

A Quiet Moment in a Busy Event

Watching Jenna work was almost meditative.

Each treatment was performed with precision and care, creating a peaceful atmosphere that stood out from the busy energy of the DRIFT event. Guests settled into comfortable chairs while Jenna gently placed the tiny needles, taking time to explain the process and answer questions.

Some visitors admitted they were nervous beforehand, but after just a few minutes, many commented on how surprisingly calming the experience felt.

It became one of those moments that reminded everyone that wellness isn’t always about doing more—sometimes it’s about slowing down.

More Than Just a Treatment

What made Jenna’s booth special wasn’t just the acupuncture itself.

It was the conversations.

People gathered to learn about holistic wellness, ask questions about stress relief, and discover how traditional practices like acupuncture can complement a healthy lifestyle. Even those who didn’t receive a treatment walked away with a greater appreciation for the body’s incredible ability to restore balance.

Final Thoughts

The DRIFT event celebrated wellness in many forms, but Jenna’s ear acupuncture sessions offered something truly unique—a chance to pause.

In a world that constantly asks us to move faster, taking a few quiet moments to care for ourselves can be one of the most valuable experiences of all.

Whether you’re curious about acupuncture or already enjoy holistic wellness practices, Jenna’s thoughtful approach showed that sometimes the smallest treatments can create the biggest sense of calm.

The post Meet Jenna: Ear Acupuncture at the DRIFT Event | Peace of Nature Acupuncture appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

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Held every Canada Day at Winter Cove in the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, this beloved community fundraiser is much more than a barbecue. It’s a celebration of history, community, and the slower pace of island life that makes Saturna Island such a special place.

A Tradition That Brings Everyone Together

As we arrived, we immediately understood why this event has become a Canada Day tradition for nearly eight decades.

Families spread out picnic blankets, neighbors greeted one another like old friends, volunteers worked tirelessly behind the scenes, and visitors from across British Columbia gathered to celebrate Canada’s birthday in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable.

There was a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that reminded us how meaningful small-town traditions can be.

Instead of large crowds and busy city celebrations, Canada Day here felt intimate, authentic, and deeply rooted in community.

Watching Lamb Roast Over Open Coals

The first thing that caught our attention was the incredible sight of whole lambs roasting over open alder wood coals.

Lined up over large fire pits, each lamb was slowly cooked using a traditional roasting method that has been passed down through generations. Smoke drifted through the air while volunteers carefully tended the fires, making sure every lamb cooked low and slow.

It wasn’t just fascinating to watch—it was like stepping back in time.

Seeing an entire meal prepared this way is something you don’t experience every day, and it quickly became one of the highlights of our trip.

Worth the Wait

As the smoky aroma filled Winter Cove, anticipation grew throughout the crowd.

When lunch was finally served, we understood why people return year after year.

The lamb was wonderfully tender, juicy, and infused with the rich smoky flavor from hours of slow roasting over alder wood. Every bite reflected the time, care, and tradition that goes into preparing this iconic Canada Day meal.

Simple ingredients, traditional techniques, and passionate volunteers created one of the most memorable meals we’ve enjoyed while traveling.

More Than a Meal

While the barbecue is certainly the star of the event, what truly stayed with us was the sense of community.

People of all ages gathered together, sharing stories, laughter, and meals under the summer sun. Children ran through the open fields while families enjoyed picnics, and visitors were welcomed with genuine island hospitality.

There’s something incredibly refreshing about celebrating a national holiday in a place where the focus isn’t on extravagance but on togetherness.

It reminded us that the best travel experiences are often the simplest ones.

A Beautiful Setting at Winter Cove

The location couldn’t have been more perfect.

Surrounded by lush forests, coastal landscapes, and the peaceful beauty of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, Winter Cove provided the ideal backdrop for this cherished tradition.

Whether you were enjoying lunch, watching the lamb roast over the fire, or simply soaking in the scenery, every moment felt uniquely West Coast.

Why We’ll Be Back

Travel is about collecting experiences that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

For us, attending the 77th Annual Saturna Island Canada Day Lamb Barbecue wasn’t simply about trying delicious food—it was about experiencing a tradition that has connected generations for over 77 years.

It’s easy to see why locals cherish this event and why visitors make the journey back every Canada Day.

Authentic traditions like these remind us that the heart of every destination is its people.

If you’re planning to visit the Gulf Islands around Canada Day, we highly recommend adding the Saturna Island Lamb Barbecue to your itinerary.

From watching whole lambs roast over open fires to sharing a meal with locals in the beautiful surroundings of Winter Cove, it’s an experience that perfectly captures the warmth, hospitality, and traditions of island life.

Sometimes, the most unforgettable travel memories aren’t found in famous landmarks—they’re found around a community table, sharing a meal that has brought people together for generations.

And this is one Canada Day tradition we’ll never forget.

The post A Canada Day Tradition We’ll Never Forget: The 77th Annual Saturna Island Lamb Barbecue 🇨🇦 appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

This isn’t your typical market. There are no busy crowds or long checkout lines—just a group of friends coming together to share what we’ve grown, baked, cooked, and created with our own hands.

From Our Gardens to Your Table

One of the best parts of our Summer Market Swap was all the incredible homemade and homegrown goodies everyone brought to share. From fresh herbs, homemade bread, and refreshing green juice to crisp lettuce, sweet strawberries, homemade cookies, crunchy granola, handcrafted soaps, and beautifully scented candles—every item was made or grown with love.

A Lunch Made for Gathering 🥪🍓

One of my favorite parts of hosting is creating a meal that invites everyone to slow down, relax, and enjoy each other’s company before we start shopping the market.

This time, we gathered around a table filled with fresh sandwiches, sweet local strawberries, crisp Poppi sodas, and refreshing Empress Gin cocktails. Simple, fresh, and absolutely delicious—just the kind of lunch that makes you want to linger a little longer.

There’s something so special about sharing good food with good friends. It sets the tone for an afternoon filled with laughter, creativity, and meaningful conversations. And honestly… it was YUM!

Full Baskets & Even Fuller Hearts 

One of my favorite parts of the Summer Market Swap was watching everyone leave with overflowing baskets. Each of us made six of our homemade or homegrown items, which meant everyone went home with one of every beautiful creation. From fresh herbs and homemade bread to green juice, lettuce, strawberries, cookies, granola, soaps, and candles, every basket was filled with thoughtful gifts made by loving hands.

It wasn’t just about what we took home—it was about sharing what we created, celebrating each other’s talents, and supporting one another in such a meaningful way. We left with baskets full of fresh treasures and hearts even fuller.

A Beautiful Place to Gather 

There’s something truly magical about gathering with women. Research continues to show that strong friendships and meaningful social connections are linked to better health, lower stress, and even a longer, happier life. Our Summer Market Swap was the perfect reminder of that.

Sharing laughter over lunch, shopping each other’s handmade creations, and spending the afternoon together made the day unforgettable. Seeing everyone enjoy the market inside my newly renovated 1927 home made it even more special. Watching every room come to life with friends, creativity, and conversation was exactly what I had envisioned, and I couldn’t have imagined a better way to celebrate the season.

I’m already dreaming about our Fall Market Swap. 🍂💕

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We gathered for a special occasion—to celebrate a dear friend and the exciting new chapter ahead of her. Surrounded by supportive girlfriends, laughter, and heartfelt conversations, it felt like the perfect setting to honor new beginnings and all the possibilities they bring.

Adding to the magic of the evening was the opportunity to experience the incredible new menu by Chef Julie Hyde, thoughtfully paired with exceptional wines. Each course was beautifully presented and expertly crafted, showcasing the creativity, passion, and fresh culinary direction that make The Courtney Room one of Victoria’s finest dining destinations.

From the first bite to the final toast, every dish was memorable. The wine pairings elevated each course beautifully, creating an experience that felt both sophisticated and welcoming. It was clear that every detail had been carefully considered, making the evening feel truly special.

What made the night even more meaningful wasn’t just the remarkable cuisine, but the company around the table. There is something wonderfully fitting about celebrating life’s milestones over an exceptional meal, surrounded by women who encourage, support, and cheer one another on.

The impeccable service, warm hospitality, elegant atmosphere, and unforgettable food all came together to create an experience we’ll treasure for years to come.

As we raised our glasses and toasted to fresh starts, I was reminded that some of life’s greatest joys are found in simple moments shared with friends around a beautiful table.

Here’s to friendship, new beginnings, and savoring every season of life—one memorable meal at a time. 🥂✨

Details

Location: The Courtney Room at Magnolia Hotel & Spa
City: Victoria, British Columbia
Cuisine: Contemporary Fine Dining
Perfect For: Celebrations, girls’ nights, wine pairings, anniversaries, and special occasions

The post A Memorable Evening at The Courtney Room in Victoria BC | Fine Dining & Friendship appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

A Morning of Style and Friendship

Some days are about more than just clothes. They’re about laughter, friendship, and feeling confident in your own skin. That’s exactly what this shoot captured.

Surrounded by incredible women and timeless pieces, we spent the day celebrating fashion, community, and the joy of dressing in a way that makes you feel like yourself.

From cozy Canadian-inspired sweaters to effortlessly chic everyday pieces, every look reflected what I love most about style: comfort, confidence, and authenticity.

Why l love hughes clothing

Nestled on beautiful Oak Bay Avenue, hughes clothing has long been one of Victoria’s favorite destinations for thoughtfully curated fashion. The boutique offers pieces that are classic yet modern—perfect for women who want to look polished without sacrificing comfort.

What I appreciate most about hughes is that their collections are wearable. These are the kinds of pieces that fit seamlessly into real life—whether you’re meeting friends for coffee, heading out for dinner, or simply enjoying a day around town.

Fashion After 50

At this stage in life, I’ve learned that fashion isn’t about following trends. It’s about wearing what makes you feel confident and comfortable.

Getting older doesn’t mean giving up on style—it means embracing it with more confidence than ever. I love finding pieces that are timeless, flattering, and easy to wear, and Hughes continues to be one of my favorite places to discover them.

More Than a Photoshoot

What made this day especially memorable wasn’t just the beautiful clothing—it was the people.

Sharing laughs, posing with friends, and creating memories together reminded me that some of life’s sweetest moments are the simple ones. Fashion can bring people together, tell stories, and celebrate every season of life.

And honestly, that’s what style should be about.

Visiting Oak Bay Avenue

If you’re ever in Victoria, British Columbia, I highly recommend taking a stroll down Oak Bay Avenue. Between the charming shops, wonderful restaurants, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s one of my favorite places to spend an afternoon.

And if you’re looking for beautiful, timeless fashion with exceptional service, make sure to stop by hughes clothing. You might just leave with a new favorite outfit—and maybe even a few new memories.

Because style isn’t about age—it’s about confidence, friendship, and enjoying every beautiful season of life. 🤍

Have you visited hughes clothing or Oak Bay Avenue? I’d love to hear about your favorite local boutiques in the comments!

The post A Fashion Shoot at Hughes Clothing: Celebrating Style and Friendship on Oak Bay Avenue appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

Others are about the people.

And some are about creating an experience you’ll remember long after the candles have been blown out.

That perfectly describes Debbie Luo’s birthday celebration.

With a beautiful Coastal Blues theme, the afternoon felt like a little escape to the seaside—elegant, relaxed, and filled with thoughtful details that made every moment special.

From the moment we arrived, it was clear that every detail had been carefully planned. The table was decorated with soft ocean-inspired hues, personalized cookies, sweet treats, and the most beautiful blue cocktails that perfectly captured the theme.

Of course, the guests joined in as well, dressed in shades of coastal blue that brought the entire vision together.

The Perfect Setting

The celebration took place at Marilena, one of Victoria’s most celebrated dining destinations.

Known for its exceptional cuisine, sophisticated atmosphere, and stunning presentation, it provided the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of celebration.

What I love most about restaurants like Marilena is that they don’t just serve food—they create an experience.

Every dish, every cocktail, and every detail feels intentional.

It was the ideal setting for gathering with friends, sharing stories, and celebrating another wonderful year of life.

If you’re visiting Victoria or looking for a memorable dining experience, I highly recommend checking out Marilena Cafe + Raw Bar.

More Than a Birthday

While the décor and cocktails were beautiful, the best part of the day was spending time with an incredible group of women.

There is something special about gathering around a table, catching up on life, laughing until your cheeks hurt, and simply enjoying each other’s company.

In today’s busy world, those moments feel even more valuable.

Birthdays give us the opportunity to pause, celebrate, and appreciate the people who make life richer and more meaningful.

A Toast to Another Wonderful Year

Debbie’s Coastal Blues celebration was the perfect combination of elegance, friendship, and fun.

Beautiful details.

Wonderful company.

Amazing food.

And plenty of reasons to smile.

As we raised our glasses and toasted another year ahead, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for moments like these—the ones that remind us that life’s greatest luxuries aren’t things at all.

They’re the people we share it with.

Happy Birthday, Debbie! 💙

Here’s to another year filled with adventure, laughter, friendship, and many more beautiful celebrations.

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Others invite you to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.

My recent stay at the Wedgewood Hotel & Spa in Vancouver was exactly that—a beautiful blend of comfort, luxury, and intentional rest. It reminded me that sometimes the most memorable travel experiences aren’t found on a packed itinerary but in the quiet moments in between.

The Art of Slowing Down

Nestled in the heart of downtown Vancouver, the Wedgewood Hotel feels like a hidden sanctuary. The moment I stepped inside, I felt an immediate sense of calm.

The elegant rooms, beautiful city views, and warm hospitality created the perfect atmosphere for a much-needed reset.

As someone who is constantly balancing work, family, wellness, and everyday life, slowing down doesn’t always come naturally. But this trip gave me permission to do exactly that.

And honestly, I needed it.

My New Favorite Travel Companion: BedHead Pajamas

One unexpected highlight of the trip?

My new BedHead Pajamas.

If you’ve never experienced the joy of slipping into a beautiful pajama set at the end of a long day, let me tell you—you’re missing out.

Whether it was the cheerful yellow floral print, the playful pink lobster design, or the soft blue botanical pattern, each pair instantly elevated my hotel experience.

They were comfortable enough for lounging, stylish enough for those cozy morning photos, and somehow made room service coffee taste even better.

There is something wonderfully luxurious about investing in pieces that make everyday moments feel special.

These pajamas did exactly that.

The Best Part of the Stay

While the hotel itself was stunning, some of my favorite moments happened right in the room.

Reading a book in bed.

Watching the morning light fill the room.

Sipping coffee while looking out at Vancouver.

Sharing quiet moments with my sweet furry companion, who quickly claimed the bed as his own.

No agenda.

No rushing.

No pressure.

Just presence.

In a world that constantly encourages us to do more, I’ve come to appreciate the value of doing less every once in a while.

Why Rest Matters

We’re often taught to celebrate productivity.

But rest deserves celebration too.

Rest allows us to recharge.

Rest helps us show up better for the people we love.

Rest gives us the clarity and energy to pursue the things that matter most.

This getaway reminded me that self-care doesn’t always have to be elaborate. Sometimes it’s as simple as booking a beautiful hotel, putting on your favorite pajamas, cuddling with your dog, and allowing yourself to enjoy a slow morning.

Visit Bedhead Pajamas – Use code JODY10 for 10% off

A Vancouver Experience I’ll Never Forget

The Wedgewood Hotel & Spa provided the perfect backdrop for this experience.

Elegant without feeling pretentious.

Luxurious without feeling overwhelming.

Comfortable in all the ways that matter most.

Combined with my new BedHead Pajamas and a few uninterrupted moments of rest, it became one of those trips that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.

Because sometimes the greatest luxury isn’t found in doing more.

It’s found in slowing down enough to truly enjoy where you are.

Shop My Stay

🩷 Pajamas: BedHead Pajamas
Use code JODY10 for 10% off

🏨 Hotel: Wedgewood Hotel & Spa

Have you ever had a trip where the quiet moments became your favorite memories? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below.

The post Slow Mornings, Cozy Pajamas & a Little Vancouver Magic appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

Over the past two years, the pickleball courts at Uptown became one of those places.

What started as a place to rally quickly became something much bigger—a gathering place for friends, families, neighbors, beginners learning their first serve, seasoned players chasing long rallies, birthday celebrations, lessons, workouts, and countless unforgettable memories.

This past Saturday, we came together one last time to celebrate it all with The Last Rally—a farewell event for the courts and the amazing community that made them so special.

And what a sendoff it was.

A Day to Remember

We kicked off the day with an incredible workout that brought energy, laughter, and plenty of sweat under the sun. It was challenging, fun, and the perfect way to start the celebration.

Guests spent the morning enjoying smoothies, fresh fruit, and mimosas while catching up courtside and soaking in the atmosphere. Throughout the event, there was bracelet making, sushi, sliders, and so many thoughtful touches that made the day feel extra special.

Then came what we all came for—pickleball all afternoon.

The courts stayed full with rallies, friendly competition, laughter, cheering, and players enjoying one more day together in a space that became part of so many routines and memories.

More Than Just Pickleball

The courts gave us more than games.

They gave us community.

They became a place where people met new friends, celebrated milestones, stayed active, learned something new, and made memories together.

To the VRPA members who made the courts their own from day one, the coaches who taught so many of us the game, the families who celebrated here, and everyone who ever picked up a paddle and joined us—thank you.

You made this corner of Uptown something unforgettable.

Thank You for Being Part of the Story

The Last Rally was the perfect reminder of what made this space so special from the very beginning—not just the courts themselves, but the people who filled them.

To everyone who joined us for the farewell—thank you for playing, celebrating, connecting, and making this final day one we’ll never forget.

While we may be saying goodbye to the courts, the memories made here will stay with us long after the final rally.

And that’s something worth celebrating.

What’s Coming Up at Uptown

And while one chapter closes, another one is just getting started.

This July, Uptown will be offering free workout classes led by two amazing instructors. The classes are expected to take place on Saturdays at 9:00 AM (final confirmation coming soon) and will be open to everyone.

It’s a great opportunity to keep moving, stay connected, and continue building community together at Uptown.

Stay tuned for more details—we can’t wait to see you there.

Until we play again. 🏓✨

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