When is the Fort St Location Closing? We expect to close our Fort st location by the middle of January 2024.
Where is SALT Moving? We are moving out of the city and setting up at Junction Cidery & Orchard (273 Prospect Lake rd, Victoria) where we will have our order fulfillment office as well as studio space for local pickups. We expect to have our local pickup studio ready in the Spring! Find us at Junction for upcoming markets, events and more :)
Will my gift card still be valid? You can still use your gift cards! Gift cards will always be accepted in our online shop, at our Salt Spring Island location, and at any pop up or market event you may find us at in and around Victoria. Note that SALT gift cards cannot be used at any other retailers that carry our products.
Will you be Accepting Returns/exchanges? Our return policy has not and will not be changing. If you purchased an item eligible for return at our Victoria location it can still be returned through our online returns portal.
Can I still buy SALT clothes in Victoria? Sure Can! You can always order online and choose local pickup or have it shipped (we offer free shipping on any order over $110). If you prefer to try on before you buy, you can find a selection of our apparel at the following local shops: Victoria Market Collective, Wren.
Original Post 8/16/2023
Since opening our second location in 2018 in Victoria so much has changed - both in the world and within ourselves. When we opened SALT in Victoria it was the next grand adventure! Since then we've expanded in ways we never anticipated: alongside being a retail storefront we're now an online shop, a destination cabin, a design and marketing business and a brand that can be found in local boutiques across BC. This small business and the lives of the people it helps support have changed a lot over the past 5 years and it's time our space met us where we need to be.
We're embarking on a change that involves closing our retail store in downtown Victoria and heading outside the city, clothing in tow. Don't fret through because we're not closing down — we're moving up! We're trading the downtown hustle for fresh air and more room to grow in the areas we're most passionate about. Our new space will bring our team greater flexibility and a renewed designing experience. Plus, we'll have the opportunity for our furry (and feathered) friends to keep us company!
The new space will be opening early 2024. We're excited to share the location with you soon and everything it will bring to SALT. We're especially eager to expand our community offerings through Shopping Socials, markets, better online ordering, long table dinners, wellness nights + so much more.
As always, you can still shop in person at our Salt Spring Island Store. Our clothing and commitment to our customers is not going anywhere. We are simply taking this adventure into a new way of living, working + creating.
We want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your incredible support throughout the years in Victoria. You've been the backbone of our journey here. During this transition, we'll keep you updated every step of the way. Please feel free to reach out to us with any questions. Our Victoria Location will remain open for the rest of 2023, so come visit us while you have the chance to catch us downtown; after that you can find us in the orchard!
As we embrace this new chapter, we're excited to continue serving you with passion and dedication to our core values. Stay tuned for more updates and surprises!
Thank you for continuing to be a part of our Victoria story.
With gratitude,
Jess, The SALT Team + Poppy
]]>From labor practices to production, to by-products, the buzz of sustainable fashion has been growing for decades. In our shops we get to teach people on the daily about the sustainability of tencel fabric. But believe it or not, it was in the 80s that tencel first hit the market as what was then called Lyocell. Today it’s used in many sustainable and eco-conscious fashion brands across the world and has even started making its way into couture gowns and oscar dresses.
Tencel, or Lyocell is a natural fabric made using regenerated cellulose fibers obtained from the bark, wood, or leaves of trees. How someone went from staring at a tree to figuring out a way to make it into a fashionable garment, we don't know, but colour us impressed.
Tencel’s production practices are owned and protected by Lenzing, the fiber industry’s leader in sustainability.
The production of this natural fabric starts with chipping down the chosen cellulose source, until they are small enough to process. Eucalyptus and bamboo are most often used as they grow so quickly and can be maintained sustainably. The chips are treated using a non-toxic and reusable solvent that softens the material into a pulp. The solvent used is designed to be reused; More than 99% of the solvent is recovered for use in the next production cycle. This vastly decreases the amount of water and chemicals used, lowering the environmental impact of Tencel’s production. After the pulp is treated and dried, it is put through spinnerets, a machine that we imagine whirls like a tornado to create the strands that are sent off to be woven into the fabric we know and love.
Unlike synthetic fibers which are not biodegradable, Tencel, and all other natural fabrics are biodegradable; they will eventually return to the earth they came from. We hope this circular mentality towards production and product continues to grow and revolutionize the textile industry.
The first time you try on something made from Tencel, it is hard to believe that it is made from something that used to shade the forest floor. It is an extremely durable fiber that can be washed or dry cleaned (some versions are dry clean only, so make sure you check the tag). It can shrink to around 3%, so be sure to keep that in mind before deciding on a size.
Tencel is surprisingly smooth and soft. Our most common comment we hear in the shop is how soft everything feels! Tencel is also incredibly absorbent which allows it to soak up dyes faster, resulting in richer colors and less dye utilized in production, another win! This same quality is also what makes for such a breathable fabric with quick-drying and antibacterial properties due to its ability to handle moisture.
Tencel is often compared to cotton because they are both natural fibres that have a similar texture and appearance from first glance. Both Tencel and Cotton are cellulose fabrics known for their durability, softness, and breathability. There are differences however.
SALT has made it our mission to be fully informed about the fabrics we are using in our garments, from roots to closet. We want our elevated basics to not only up your fashion game, but also your environmental one. We encourage you to continue researching all the fabrics in your closet as you work towards a more sustainable wardrobe!
Additional Sources
Lenzing Fibers, Lyocell, Eco-Market, Rayon , Cellulose Fiber
]]>I was in my twenties when I finally felt the insides of a spanking new pair of name-brand running shoes. It was one of my first splurges from my first real paycheck, and it was glorious. Those sneakers traveled with me across the world several times over. They took me on over one hundred international flights. They protected my feet on treadmills and up mountain tops. They waded with me through streams and saw me through the course of multiple failed relationships (the sneakers survived, the boyfriends didn’t). Years later, when they finally started to give up on me at a poorly maintained tennis court, I searched for that exact same pair and knew that I would be willing to pay a premium for it. I had finally learned that being frugal wasn’t necessarily about paying less in that moment, it was sometimes about paying more but knowing that I would be gaining more value from it.
It turns out there’s a term for this metric. It’s called ‘Cost Per Wear’ and it helps us determine the lifetime value of our clothing through one simple calculation:
Cost of Item ➗ The Number of Times the Item Is Worn
Calculating a garment’s cost per wear isn’t just better for one’s wallet, it’s better for the planet. The less we purchase, the more resources we save. It’s estimated that every year over ten million tonnes of clothing get disposed of in North America alone!
Today, I can’t help but cringe at all the times I bought a trendy $15 top only to wear it once. Yes, that's a $15 cost per wear! ($15 ÷ 1)
TRENDY FAST FASHION TOP FOR $15
NUMBER OF TIMES WORN: 1
COST PER WEAR: $15
Compare that with my favorite sneakers. They cost me around $200, but were worn at least three times a week, every single week of the year for four years (3x/week x 52 weeks x 4 years = 624 times worn). That’s a $0.32 cost per wear! ($200 ÷ 624).
QUALITY SNEAKERS FOR $200
NUMBER OF TIMES WORN: 624 at least!
COST PER WEAR: $0.32
At face value, the shoes may have seemed like a splurge and the top may have seemed like a steal. But in reality, the opposite was true. The top was worth one wear and the shoes were worth a lifetime (or at least four years).
Is there a target ‘cost per wear’? This is something I have yet to determine. My guess is that the value remains dependent on the kind of item we seek and our individual lifestyle choices. Still, in its own personal way, I believe this is shopping’s most important metric. If only to cause us to pause and reflect every time we reach for a cute new item. If only to ask - how long will this last us? What is the true value of our clothing?
Here’s a rundown of some of our team’s most memorable purchases and their cost per wear:
Lena’s Favourite Salty Item: ULA V-Neck Tee
How Long Have You Had It?: Over One Year
How Many Times Have You Worn It?: Almost Every Week (and counting)
Cost Per Wear: $1.12
Arielle's Favourite Salty Item:Botanical Waffle $84
How Long Have You Had It?: 19 months
How Many Times Have You Worn It?: at least 1x per week
Cost Per Wear: $1.16
Arielle's Favourite non salty Item: Saltwater sandals $80
How Long Have You Had It?: 2 years
How Many Times Have You Worn It?: at least 5x a week in Spring and Summer
Cost Per Wear: $0.33
Jessica’s salty Item: Black Fjord Top $84
How Long Have You Had It?: 5 years
How Many Times Have You Worn It?: at least 1x a week year round
Cost Per Wear: $0.32
Jessica’s Favourite non salty Item: Patagonia Puffer Jacket $349
How Long Have You Had It?: 4 years
How Many Times Have You Worn It?: at least 3x a week in Fall, Winter, + Spring
Cost Per Wear: $0.80
Jarrah’s Favourite salty Item: Crew Touque $38
How Long Have You Had It?: 3 Months
How Many Times Have You Worn It?: 2x Week
Cost Per Wear: $1.58
Jarrah’s Favourite non salty Item: Levis denim jacket $150
How Long Have You Had It? 7 years
How Many Times Have You Worn It? At least 1x fortnight
Cost Per Wear: $.82
]]>The older we get, the more we’ve come to admire the women in our lives who have taught us to be brave. Bravery can mean a lot of different things to a lot of different people. It can mean quitting a stable job to pursue a not-so-stable passion. It can mean crossing oceans on a tiny boat. It can mean standing up for unpopular beliefs and opinions. It can mean charting unconventional paths in unusual places. There are a lot of brave women out there and they inspire us on a regular basis.
Here are some of our favourite female adventurers (dare we say, influencers) on the internet. From bloggers to chefs, artists to travel journalists, these women inspire us to go outside, get out of our comfort zones and embark on the wild and beautiful adventure we call life.
“The world belongs to the brave.” - Eva zu Beck
Sarah Glover
IG @misssarahglover
sarahglover.com.au
Chef, Author and Outdoor Enthusiast Sarah Glover has been our outdoor cooking inspiration for years, teaching us that the best culinary experiences are enjoyed under open skies. She combines our two favorite things in the world - adventure and cuisine - by opening our eyes to the myriad of delectable recipes that can be enjoyed in the wild. Through Sarah, we’ve learned how to roast meat over open fires, bake cakes outdoors, make pizza dough on stone and to do so in style. An experienced hunter and forager, Sarah proves that self-reliance and femininity are not mutually exclusive. Because who said women were meant to stay at home? Who said chefs were meant to be in the kitchen? Who said glamour was confined to the indoors? Not us and definitely not Sarah. “Everything is for everyone,” Sarah says. We fervently agree.
Eva zu Beck
IG @evazubeck
https://www.youtube.com/c/evazubeckofficial
Polish storyteller Eva zu Beck is the creme de la creme of travel bloggers. Three years ago, she abandoned her cushy London life with its plush corporate job and postcard-worthy marriage to chase her dreams across the globe. Her trademark expression “the world belongs to the brave” is a testament to the importance of pushing past your comfort zone in the pursuit of discovering your true self. Through her immensely popular Youtube Channel, Eva provides an alternative perspective to mainstream media narratives. She features destinations across the globe that are underrepresented and often misinterpreted. Eva has traveled across Mongolia on horseback, hiked the tallest peak in Antarctica and explored the countryside of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, to name a few. We could go on and on about this lady, but we’ll stop there and let you discover her stories for yourself. If there’s one woman (or human for that matter) to inspire you to conquer your fears, Eva’s the one.
Elayna Carausu
IG @elayna.carausu
https://www.youtube.com/c/SailingLaVagabonde
We first learned about this bold adventurer when she and her partner, Riley Whitelum, famously helped transport activist Greta Thunberg (almost entirely) carbon-free across the stormy Atlantic seas. Since then, we’ve followed their weekly video updates religiously. Elayna and Riley are vagabonds in the truest sense of the word. They’ve been circumnavigating the globe aboard their sailboat, La Vagabonde, for more than seven years now. Along the way, they acquired a couple of very important stowaways - their two children, Lenny and Darwin. They document their experiences with refreshing honesty as they navigate the heroic task of raising a family at sea. Their channel is a compilation of jaw-dropping sceneries, nautical tips and crazy adventures. If you’ve been led to believe that adventure and family life are incompatible states of being, Elayna is proof that settling down is not a requirement, nor a recommendation.
Rachel Pohl Art
IG @rachel.pohl
Rachelpohlart.com
Rachel Pohl is a rural artist who produces art and apparel from her beautiful mountain home in Montana. She spends her free time exploring the backcountry on her skis and comes home to paint about the world she experiences. Her idyllic visuals are always accompanied by an earnest expression of self that remind us to embrace the simple things in life. If you’re a fan of art, ethical apparel and mountain life, let her whimsical designs transport you to a winter wonderland far far away.
Jessica from The Bucket list Family
IG @thebucketlistfamily
@jessgee
thebucketlistfamily.com
It’s impossible to compile a list of female adventurers on the internet without including Jessica from The Bucket List Family. Moms are brave enough on their own, without deciding to travel with their three children across the globe on a permanent basis. Jessica and Garrett take their adventuring to a whole new level. They’ve journeyed across the world with their entire family in tow, hoping to break barriers and boundaries along the way. Beyond their idyllic imagery, there’s something refreshing about seeing the world through a child’s eyes and watching young adventurers come to be.
]]>
Everything was going swimmingly (pun intended) until the wee hours of the morning. At two in the morning, Arielle awoke to the sounds of tidal waves crashing against the rocks and logs. A woman started shrieking as her tent rapidly flooded with water. Groups of campers rushed to move precious belongings and entire campsites away from the encroaching water line. Luckily, everything of importance was saved and the large group of campers survived the night unscathed. But they returned to their urban dwellings the next day with an important wilderness lesson:
Always check the tides.
Tides affect all aspects of coastal life: swimming, sailing, surfing, fishing and camping on the beach, to name a few. Romantic meanders along the shoreline can quickly turn into embarrassing darts along the beach thanks to a fast rising high tide.
Our ocean is a magical place, but to fully take advantage of all that she has to offer, we must learn how she behaves.
WHAT ARE TIDES?
Tides are the rise-and-fall of sea levels caused mainly by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun. They vary based on the relative positions of the sun, the moon and the Earth, as well as the geographical features of that particular coastline. Many coastlines around the world will have two equal high tides and two equal low tides, however, this is not always the case. Certain protected bodies of water, including our very own Salish Sea, experience “mixed tides”, which follow an uneven tidal pattern (unequal high and low tides).
HOW TO READ TIDE CHARTS
Since the tides change from day to day and place to place, it’s important to check tide charts or tables as we plan our coastal activities.
Tide charts present a visual representation of the rise and fall of the tides based on the time of day.
Taken from https://tides4fishing.com/ca/british-columbia/ganges-harbour#_tides
Tide tables list the high tides and low tides for each day.
Taken from https://www.tides.gc.ca/eng/station?type=0&date=2021%2F08%2F21&sid=7407&tz=PDT&pres=1
Here are some of our favorite tidal resources:
What do all those numbers mean?
Both tide charts and tide tables give the tide heights based on the chart datum or the average of the lower low water tides in the area.
What does that mean?
Statisticians will take the lowest low tide levels of a period of time and calculate the average low tide based on that data. That figure will be considered "zero tide" (or the chart datum)
Basically anything lower than the number one signifies a very very very low tide.
The high tides are the highest numbers listed during the day. They signify how high over the “chart datum” the water will swell to.
The greater the “tidal range” or the difference between high tide and low tide on a given day, the more extreme the tides. Low tide will be very low, and high tide will be very high.
Some areas have a much greater tidal range than others, so it's important to know what the tidal patterns are in the area before setting anchor! Southern British Columbia has a tidal range of about 2 meters, whilst the northern coastlines have a tidal range of over seven meters. Meanwhile, The Bay of Fundy in Eastern Canada has a tidal range of up to 12 meters!
Cruise ships in Alaska (where the tidal range is quite large) will sometimes have to move the gangway from deck 4 to deck 7 (3 full stories!) in a matter of hours.
HOW TO APPLY TIDE CHARTS IN REAL LIFE
Find a Tide Chart Based on Your Location
A simple google search with the keywords “tide chart” and your location of choice will likely provide you with a chart to suit your needs. Be as specific with the location as possible.
Look for the specific date and time of your beach activity
Tides vary from day to day. As you plan your coastal activities, you can check for the tide predictions a few weeks in advance. We do recommend rechecking those tides closer to the actual date if you have a big activity planned.
When planning a beach picnic, bonfire or a day of digging for clams, plan for the lowest tide possible.
Extra tip: The wider the tidal range on that day, the lower the low tide!
When camping on the beach, make sure to set camp above the highest high tide mark for that time period.
When going for a walk along the beach, check to see if the tides are rising or falling.
Sailing over shallow waters? Plan to sail over high tide
Watch Out for Tidal Currents!
As the ocean moves from one tidal extreme to the next, a current will form, pushing the water in or out. This is important to remember when taking a kayak or paddle board out into the great blue sea. If you’re having an easier-than-normal time paddling out to sea, that may be because a current is working in your favor. Be wary! For once you decide on heading back in, that same tidal current could start working against you.
Don’t always expect a regular tidal pattern. In areas with “Mixed Tides” (such as the Gulf Islands), the tidal heights can sometimes plateau
This means that the high tide will sometimes stay high for an extended period of time. Make your plans accordingly!
Remember: A little tidal knowledge goes a long way!
]]>It’s impossible to trace the beginnings of mankind's deliberate plunge into the cold sea. What we do know for certain is that these intentional icy dips have been around for a very long time. One of the first written accounts of the benefits of cold water bathing can be traced back to 400 BC. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, discussed the potential of cold water therapy long before Jesus had the chance to turn water into wine.
Clearly, this pastime is no modern day invention. In Canada, the polar bear swim is a well known New Years Day tradition. In Norway, Finland and Sweden, ice swimming is inextricably linked to their culture of saunas and winter bathing. In Russia, every year, thousands of Arctic residents take an icy plunge to celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany. Yet despite its long-standing existence, cold water swimming has, until recently, been limited to select groups of peoples; extreme athletes who revel in pushing their bodies to the limits or far-flung cultures where swimming in the cold is viewed as a necessity, not a hobby.
Today, it’s a different story.
Thanks to a modern wave of health claims (and a sensation named Wim Hof), millions of people across the world are making that courageous choice to ditch their winter coats and dive right in. Cold water swimming is everywhere and anywhere that warrants the use of a sweater. And who can blame them? The well-advertised claims are hefty. They say it can help with your headaches, your muscles, those extra 10 pounds, your lingering anxiety and even your overall immunity.
Could all of this be true?
We sifted through the health blogs and trendy documentaries, to see if there was any rhyme to their reason, and what we uncovered was a pile of overwhelming scientific evidence. There’s almost too much data to include in one article. For the winter water skeptics out there, we’ve learned that cold water swimming isn’t just good for the body or the psyche, it’s downright exhilarating.
For many, conquering the cold is tantamount to waging victory against our greatest fears. It transforms the frightening into the rewarding, allowing the rest of life to feel easy. We’ve also heard that the euphoria one gets from a cold-water plunge is nothing short of addictive, hinting that this winter pastime is no passing fad. After all, if it doesn’t make superhumans out of all of us, it’ll at least fill us with delirious amounts of glee.
NOTE: Today, cold water swimming is practiced by individuals of all ages and fitness levels. But it’s important to note that cold water swimming comes with some risks and should be approached with caution, especially for the very young and the inexperienced elderly. The most important aspect of safe cold water plunging is to do so slowly and to listen to your body. Allow your body to acclimatize (don’t jump right in), leave the water once you start shivering and make sure to enjoy this activity with other people.
Join SALT + The Local Picnic on their next Cold Water Plunge.
Sources
1 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7730683/
]]>If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, you’ve come to the right place. Salt Spring Island is the largest of the southern gulf islands and a veritable eden. It is also where SALT Shop started. The Island’s magical mountains, bountiful farms, quirky galleries, incredible coastline and delectable cuisine have inspired migrants for generations. A weekend on Salt Spring is just enough to give you a tantalising taste of life on the Salish Sea.
For those of you who have yet to experience the beauty of the island, we’ve created this jam-packed weekend guide for your benefit! And for those of you who simply want a repeat experience (don’t we all?), this is for you, too! This is part one of our two-part summer guide to Salt Spring because - let’s face it - we just couldn’t fit everything in one go.
There’s a little bit of magic here. Come find it.
BC Ferries operates three separate ferry routes to the island. Drive your car or walk right on from Victoria (Swartz Bay to Fulford Harbour), Vancouver (Tsawassen to Long Harbour) or Duncan (Crofton to Vesuvius). For more information on BC Ferry Schedules, visit www.bcferries.com
Harbour Air offers regular flights to Salt Spring Island. If you’re willing to ditch your car and travel light, this is a much faster way to go.
I think we can all agree that there is nothing quite like sailing the gulf islands. There are several public docks and marinas for you to enjoy if this is how you choose to travel. If you want to be in the center of town, make your way towards Ganges Harbour. We recommend making a reservation in advance at Salt Spring Marina or Ganges Marina
image via: Beachside Cafe
image via: Wild Cider
image via: Salt Spring Island Cheese
Did you enjoy your weekend? Let us know what you think! We’ve got a few extra tips for your travels below.
Salt Spring Island is home to a plethora of flora and fauna, and remains an unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples of Salt Spring. Please enjoy this space with care and respect.
]]>
These were his clues: Rain jacket, Jeans, Something Warm, Slippers, A Swimsuit and Runners (preferably white soled).
For anyone with boating experience, that last piece of advice should have given it away. But I was a sailing virgin at the time, and until the moment of embarkation, I had no idea what I was getting into. He drove us to Sidney Marina where we embarked a 34ft sailboat with two of our friends. We sailed for four days through the southern gulf islands, eating fish tacos and drinking wine by the water. We enjoyed deserted sandy beaches and the sight of orcas a mere six feet from us.
On the one hand, it was magical and breathtaking. On the other hand, I can only assume that he was testing my limits. I don’t blame him. It’s important to know what you’re getting into when you’re entering a new relationship! Sharing an aft berth for a few days (without enough headroom to sit up straight or change your clothes upright) is a great indicator for future success.
Indeed, we are married now. And the outfit guidelines he gave me that weekend have evolved to become the outfit guidelines for my current life.
It did take a fair bit of trial and error. Some days, I looked like a potato. Other days, I looked incredibly cute whilst ridiculously cold. I spent a good amount of time during our first two years researching what to wear on a sailboat and in rainy west coast weather, in general. Unfortunately, there wasn’t much for me to go by. I wondered whether I was the first woman to ask these questions. I couldn't be! The more women I opened up to, the more kindred spirits I found. There was a whole group of us, outside of our comfort zone, eagerly seeking a way to fit in.
So this is a letter to my past self and to any other women intimidated by the idea of trying something daring and new. You are not alone. You deserve to feel comfortable in any exciting new environment - especially this one. Because once you’re out there, you’ll experience a perspective like no other.
It’s a magical world on the ocean, one certainly worth leaving land for.
It’ll be hot and dry and cold and wet and windy and warm and wild. Sometimes all at once. So be versatile.
As tempting as it might be to bring one cute tank top with one fancy sweater, that might not be the smartest idea. If you’re sailing for an extended period of time, I highly suggest that you bring five pieces of clothing that you can potentially wear all at once, or one at a time, depending on the conditions. Try a tank top underneath a t-shirt underneath a waffle shirt underneath a cardigan underneath a waterproof windbreaker. Mix and match, or peel them off as you see fit. The goal is to be prepared for all kinds of weather.
You will not regret bringing everything.
If you want the boat owner to be nice to you, consider wearing non-marking shoes with light-coloured soles. Stiff dark soled shoes can mark the boat, and make for a grumpy boater. No one wants that. And if you don’t want to trip and fall overboard, make sure they have flat soles.
Tip: If the sole on your shoe is stiff and dark, it will most likely mark the boat. If your shoes have soft rubber soles, chances are, they will work for this situation (even if they are dark soled). You can double check, by pressing your fingernail into the sole of your shoe. If it creates a dent that quickly recovers, it is non-marking. You can also grab a sheet of white paper and attempt to draw a line on it with the heel of your shoe. If it leaves a mark on the paper, do not wear it.
Ideally, it’ll be windy, so never forget your best windbreaker.
If you want to take cute pictures AND keep your phone, I recommend having something on you with zip-up pockets. I revel in the return of the fanny pack. What a Godsend! If you don’t have one, just leave your phone safely tucked away in your bag underneath. Whatever you do, do not slip your valuables into your denim jean pocket. There’s a good chance it won’t be there by the end of the day.
Wide-brimmed hats are great for keeping the sun off of your neck, but on calm days, the sun's rays can still reflect off of the water and back onto your skin. So if you love your skin, and yourself, wear sunscreen.
If you plan on entering the ocean, I highly encourage lathering on mineral sunscreen that’s safe for the environment. Many of the chemicals present in commercial sunscreens are harmful for our marine friends. We want to enjoy their home, not destroy it.
Have you ever watched your precious scarf fly off your neck and into the ocean? Great, you’re not me then. Don’t bring it. But do bring that scrunchie.
Unless you’re sailing aboard a luxury yacht, there won’t be much room for your hard case suitcase. On longer trips, the first order of business is to unpack all of your belongings into your vessel’s many cubby holes. Once your bag is empty, you’ll need to stash it underneath a bed or bench or couch. Therefore, your bag must be flexible. If you insist on bringing your hard case suitcase, you must be prepared to sleep on it.
As the world starts opening up again, and new possibilities arise, we’ve decided to create a list of small habits that we can easily adapt into our life: manageable habits, real habits, meaningful habits and long term habits.
We might fail on some of them. That’s okay. We’ll try again the next day. We’re just getting started. We’re spreading this list to all of our friends, so that they can join in, too. It’s a challenge that we hope to turn into a movement that we hope to, eventually, turn into a long-term reality.
Change doesn’t have to be overwhelming; it just has to be done.
Meatless Mondays: We’re not asking you to cut meat out completely! Instead, once a week, opt for meatless meals or meat alternatives. It’s a small adjustment that saves on CO2 emissions in the long run.
Carless Tuesdays: Once a week, ditch that car and walk, bike or take the bus, instead. You don't have to buy an electric car today to decrease your carbon footprint.
Hang-Dry SunDay: Schedule a weekly hang-dry. Ditch the dryer once a week and hang-dry all your clothing instead. It doesn’t work for all your laundry, we understand. But if you can do this once a week, that’s a tiny habit worth saving.
No Cup, No Coffee: If you need to consume a disposable cup, just skip that coffee. Applicable every day of the week
Turn the Heat Down: Leaving the house? Turn off your heating or your air-conditioning. Who is it left on for?
Zero-Waste Gift wrap: Skip the wrapping paper and re-use that newspaper. We think it looks pretty cool, too.
Quality vs Quantity: It’s a new season, and you might need some new clothing. Buy an ethical piece that lasts a long time instead of three fast fashion ones. It’s better for the environment and better for that closet clutter!
Organic Option: Switch out one of your regular vegetable purchases to an organic option. Organic produce isn't just better for you, it's better for the insects, plants and animals, too!
Make Your Own: Skip the chemicals and single-use plastic - Make your own home staples. Things like salad dressing, or glass cleaner (it’s super easy, we promise). We’ve even got some recipes for you at the end of this post.
Shop Local: Once a week, shop 100% local. It could be that local farm stand down the road, or that local bakery by work. It could be local clothes or furniture or food. Just shop local. If it didn’t have to travel 10,000 km to get here, it is probably better for everyone around you.
EASY Balsamic Dressing
Combine the following ingredients in a jar (or blender) and shake well. Store this well in the fridge and this can last for several weeks!
Glass Cleaner
Mix 1 part white Vinegar with 1 part water. Place in a spray bottle for a perfect window and mirror cleaner, free of harsh ingredients (like ammonium hydroxide)
]]>Dads gift us with our first adventures. We'd like to give them something back.
These are gifts for the person who understands that the best moments in life are the ones that have been earned - reaching the top of that mountain, embracing the wide expanse of sea, crossing the finish line.
What are ghost nets?
Ghost Nets are abandoned fishing lines, nets, and ropes, that have been lost or discarded at sea. These nets are primarily made from plastic and when left at sea, they can survive for decades on end. They are a menace to marine life; ensnaring fish, turtles, and marine mammals in their web. They also damage coral reefs and entire ecosystems in the process - ecosystems that contribute to almost 80% of the world’s oxygen.
]]>If you’ve been feeling helpless and weary about the state of the world, you are not alone. If you’ve been overcome with a feeling of powerlessness, you are more in tune with the human condition than you may be giving yourself credit for.
Several years ago climate researcher Per Espen Stoknes coined the phrase “apocalypse fatigue”. It refers to a state of helplessness in the face of massive societal problems. It highlights the tendency of many people to disengage, and to shy away from problems of insurmountable heights.
When the world says “no” to our seemingly every move, it is natural to feel paralyzed. It is natural to want to stand still and wait for the world; to wait for the people with much more clout and much more power to take action. But we must remind ourselves; we do have clout, we do have power, and we can create change!
I’d like to start this story with a group of hopeful and hope-inspiring (formerly ordinary) people called Ghost Divers. Ghost Diving is a charity organization of volunteer technical divers from around the world. Their mission is to highlight and to tackle the literally suffocating global issue of ghost nets.
What are ghost nets?
Ghost Nets are abandoned fishing lines, nets, and ropes, that have been lost or discarded at sea. These nets are primarily made from plastic and when left at sea, they can survive for decades on end. They are a menace to marine life; ensnaring fish, turtles, and marine mammals in their web. They also damage coral reefs and entire ecosystems in the process - ecosystems that contribute to almost 80% of the world’s oxygen.
It is estimated that roughly half of the mass of plastic in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch comes from fishing lines, nets and ropes. And when the mass of nets do manage to break down in the ocean, they continue to live on as microplastics, inadvertently being consumed by marine life, and consequently, and inadvertently, being consumed by us.
Ghost divers volunteer their time in the aid of recovering this menace. They conduct missions worldwide to search for, detach, and resurface, tonnes upon tonnes of fishing waste. But where do these recovered nets go?
Thankfully, there are more hope-filled people on the horizon. Organizations around the world are dedicating their time to recycling these nets into useful products. One such group is “Healthy Sea Socks”. Healthy Sea Socks turns fishing nets into an everyday household essential - you guessed it - socks. In less than ten years, the Healthy Seas initiative has recovered and recycled more than 510,000 kilos of fishing nets, turning “waste to wear”.
That’s half a million kilos of menacing ocean pollutants which have now been converted into stylish foot warmers….
So where do we fit in? We may not be technical divers, or engineers capable of recycling plastic en masse. We’re probably just ordinary people trying not to be too much of a strain on this beautiful planet we all call home. We're just sock wearers.
But now we're sock wearers with a choice.
When we choose to consume with consciousness we can, collectively, change the outcome of our planet's future. This choice contributes to a positive web (or net) of change. And this net, much like the ghost nets of our seas, can be big, ubiquitous and powerful. Let this power be positive. Let this web of change be the change we need.
Sources:
]]>Call me hyperbolic, but anyone who has ever owned a cast iron pan seems to have a cast iron story.
Years ago, my father-in-law found an old cast iron pan at a dumpsite. It was orange, rusty, and neglected, and it certainly didn’t look like it belonged in anyone’s house, let alone anyone’s kitchen. But my father-in-law knew then what I have only learned now - that a good cast iron pan simply cannot be thrown out. He brought the discarded pan to a sandblaster; he cleaned it, he heated it, he re-seasoned it. And he continues to use it til this day.
Cast iron is forever.
I, myself, am new to the cast iron world. I started cooking with cast iron pans less than a year ago, so my cast iron skills are a bit on the rusty side (pun intended). Cleaning cast iron pans is a new experience for me. For those who aren’t familiar, here's a quick summary
A month or two into my cast iron experience, I put my newly washed pan onto the stove for seasoning. I hadn't quite adapted to the routine yet and I swiftly got distracted by another errand or two, and... I went out for a walk. Yes, you read that correctly. I left the house with the burner still on - the ultimate homemakers shame. Upon arriving home, it took me a while to even realize what I had done. It was only upon entering the kitchen and noticing a whiff of burnt oil that I became cognizant of my faux pas. I had, indeed, left the pan on an open burner. But that’s not even the craziest part of this story. What then - you ask? The craziest part was that the pan was totally fine. (And so was the house, thank goodness). A small superficial heat spot did form in the middle and some of my seasoning did burn off in the process, but otherwise, the pan was completely fine. I’ve never loved a kitchen item more.
Cast iron pans are indestructible. And needless to say, I am a convert.
There is so much to celebrate in the world of cast-iron, and as much as I’d like to discuss each and every aspect - like how they can be used both on the stove and in the oven (that means only one pan to wash on chicken skillet night!) or how my omelettes have never been tastier or fluffier - there is one particular aspect that I’d like to give a special nod to. While cast iron pans are seemingly indestructible, our bodies, most certainly, are not. In a world that is more polluted and more health-obsessed than ever, recent research points to the fact that cast iron pans could be one of the safest and healthiest kitchen choices out there.
Firstly, cooking with cast iron can provide a much needed iron boost. Scientific research has shown that a small amount of iron gets absorbed into our food when cooking with cast iron pans. Iron is an essential mineral, and as a woman who has spent much of her life on a vegetarian diet, it is also a mineral that my demographic tends to be deficient in. There are two types of iron: heme iron, which is found in many meat products, and non-heme iron, found in many vegetables. Non-heme iron doesn’t absorb as easily into the body as heme iron. To compensate for this, nutritionists often recommend adding above average amounts of iron to vegetarian diets. Enter: Cast iron.
Secondly, Cast iron is free of many of the harmful chemicals that are often found in cookware. PFAS chemicals (including PFOA) are toxic chemicals used in the manufacturing process of many kinds of non-stick cookware, as well as other household items. They are employed due to their ability to repel oil and water. Exposure to PFAS chemicals has been linked to cancer (Canadian Cancer Society and Health Canada), reproductive harm*, and hormone and immune system disruption, amongst others.
The good news is that cast iron pans are produced without the use of these PFAS chemicals. And for those of you who are like myself and still need their eggs in the morning, a well seasoned cast iron pan is a great alternative to the traditional non-stick. We can continue to enjoy our daily omelettes knowing that we're not simultaneously consuming PFOA in the process.
Okay- it is important for me to note that in the grand scheme of things, the amount of added iron and chemicals avoided from using cast iron may be small. However, while cast iron pans won’t cure all your health problems, it can certainly be a step in the right direction. Today's world is a world inundated with chemicals and stressors, and perhaps a million small changes in the way we live is exactly what we need.
With Field Company’s Cast Iron Skillet you won’t even have to build up a seasoning. All pans come pre-seasoned and are extremely light weight.
We used our Field Cast Iron Skillet to make buttermilk pancakes from scratch in our 1973 Boler. Cooking pancakes on the skillet is a dream. I highly recommend using a metal spatula along with it.
2 cups flour
2 tbsp sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
2 cups milk
4 tbsp white vinegar
2 eggs
4 tbsp butter, melted
Make the buttermilk in advance: combine the 2 cups milk with the vinegar, and let sit for at least 30 minutes
In a large bowl, combine all dry ingredients.
In a separate bowl, beat together wet ingredients (buttermilk, eggs and butter). Keep the two mixtures separate until you are ready to cook
Heat a lightly oiled pan over medium high heat. You can flick water across the surface to test if it's ready (if it sizzles, it's ready!)
Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture using a wooden spoon or fork to blend. DO NOT OVER STIR.
Pour or scoop the batter onto the pan. When the top of the pancake is filled with tiny bubbles/air pockets, that's a good indication to flip. Practice makes perfect!
Serve with Canadian Maple Syrup. Enjoy!
Sources:
Todays salty human is Meg. We connected with her at the local dive centre, Frank Whites Dive Shop. Meg teaches diving helping others to explore + appreciate the underwater world. Meg is also currently on her journey to becoming a Marine biologist!
Time to get to know Meg!
What is your earliest memory of the ocean?
My earliest memory of the ocean sounds pretty made up but you can call my mum to fact check. But I think I was probably about 5 and my parents were working on Little Cayman running a dive resort and my mum took me out snorkelling and I remember wearing my pink mask and snorkel and squealing at all the fish in the reef when out from under it swam this beautiful 7.5 foot nurse shark and I totally freaked out. I jumped on top of my mums back, apparently almost drowning her, and screaming with my snorkel in my mouth because I’d never seen a shark before. But my mum calmed me down and told me that nurse sharks were like the puppies of the sea and that I should try and put my face in the water again just to look and see that it wasn’t going to bother us. And when I looked down I remember being terrified but also just amazed at how it glided on the bottom. From then on was obsessed with sharks and wanted to tell everyone about them. I think that’s when I really fell in love with the ocean.
How is the ocean a part of your life?
The ocean is a place where I can escape everything that is going on in my life. It has always been somewhere I feel at home no matter where I am in the world. I grew up snorkelling, then scuba diving, sailing, boating, and just going to the beach. I love to do beach clean ups and always bring a bag to put rubbish in when I’m planning to go. I don’t really know why but when other people on the beach see me picking stuff up when I’m walking people usually start to do the same thing and I love that it reminds people we should be respecting and protecting it because it does that for us.
What does being a SALTY HUMAN mean to you?
Being a salty human to me means sharing that salty love with others. I do this in my job as a dive instructor, studying marine biology at university, and anyone who wants to know more about the ocean if I meet them on the beach, on instagram, or my friends who are wondering why I love what I do so much.
What is one thing you wish people knew about the ocean?
I wish that more people knew that the ocean works so hard to protect the planet and us. It does this partly by being one of the biggest carbon sinks on the planet, being the biggest producer of oxygen, more so than forests, and it absorbs most sun radiation so it keeps the planet cool and habitable. It also houses so many important ecosystems that provide for the majority of world’s livelihoods such as the mangroves, seagrass, and kelp that are nurseries for juvenile fish and protects shorelines from erosion and storms. So I want people to know that if we protect the ocean, it will protect us too.
What is something most people don't know about you?
Most people don’t know that I name every single one of my 36 houseplants like they are my children, much to my parents disappointment.
What is inspiring you currently?
The thing that inspired me the most recently was one of my students who was trying scuba diving for the first time and got super panicked when we were at the bottom of the pool. She came up to the surface and was telling me that she accidentally snorted some water up her nose while she was doing a skill but that she wanted to go back down and try it again. She reminded me that sometimes the best things in life happen on the other side of fear and if something scares you, you should probably try it.
How do you spend your free time?
If I have some free time I like to spend it outside either biking or hiking or going to the beach because the pandemic has kept me pretty homebound so getting some fresh air is always welcome
What are 3 of your favourite things right now?
My 3 favourite things right now are London fogs, my growing number of house plants, and the documentary Fish People by Patagonia.
What is something that you are currently coveting from SALT?
The Joanna Wool Cardigan. I am obsessed. Need it in my life ASAP!
How would you describe your personal style?
My personal style is pretty relaxed. I love long flowy pants and skirts with my birkenstock’s, even in the middle of a Victoria winter. I really like thrift shopping and pushing myself to put pieces together I wouldn’t normally to kind of venture off of the sweatpants I normally wear at home.
What are you most excited about in life at the moment?
I am most excited right now about how close we are to summer. Not just for a break from the books but also for some vitamin D! We are very lucky on the West Coast to have such a mild winter but I cannot wait for the sunshine!
Meg is wearing:
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Gold Mine Trail - Malahat
This is a lesser-known trail in Goldstream park, you can take it right up to the trestle if you like. It passes by a large cave marked with the goldming history. I love this adventure because we chose to do it on a rainy day which made the trail especially great for puddle-jumping; perfect for powering through in your boots. There's many beautiful spots along the way to stop and admire including a few streams, a little waterfall and some beautifully banking green portions of the trail. And of course the train tracks at the end make for a great rewarding view at the top, especially on a misty day.
Horth Hill - Saanich
Yup, The trail made popular by Royalty last Christmas. I really enjoyed the easy nature of this hike, it allowed you to really wander and take in all the ferny goodness. it's actually more of a nature stroll. It's full of smaller trail off shoots as well so you can wander this one a few different ways.
Old Baldy Mountain - Shawnigan
Let me warn you, this one comes with a steep service road to begin. But once you reach the trail oh boy, is it worth it. A stunning rocky climb along the side of the mountain means the amazing view of Shawnigan lake never leaves your sight, it just gets wider and wider as you reach the top. And once you get there your welcomed with the tree swing that sways you right into the open air!
Holmes Peak - Highlands
So many parts of this trail give off that fairy-garden feel: ultra-mossy, lush and narrow. It feels like there's a little bit of magic around you. And like Mount Baldy you're rewarded with a tree swing at the top. This is a great hike for those who are just beginning to get into hiking as it's very well marked and somewhat busy. You won't fee like you're out in the woods completely alone. It finishes off with a beauty view of the valley, and then you're able to turn around and head downhill all the way back home.
Mount Wells Summit - Langford
This has become a more popular trail this past year, for good reason. We loved this one because it's kind of a two-parter. Start with a muddier trail hike that you can take at a more leisurely pace until you face a steep scramble up some rocks. After that it's chording, and chain rails the rest of the way to the top! It was icy the day we hiked up and watching the streams run under the ice and seeing the ice formations that spring from the loose rocks was absolutely fascinating! It's not a difficult climb but we did see a couple small dogs struggling. I've also heard people mention it's a tricky one for kids however we saw plenty of little ones over 8 or so. Once you reach the top, there's plenty of open space to enjoy a lunch, watch the view, and rest before you take the trail back down.
I hope one of these trails peaked your interest, See you on the mountain!
]]>We recently took our Barebones Cooker Out for a test drive and we are over the moon with it! Our favourite thing to cook beachside with this cast iron cooker? Pizza of course! The Barebones all-in-one cast iron grill has so many ways to prepare food, and we probably even invented a few ourselves this weekend. For this recipe we used the base of the all-in-one grill along with a cast iron pan to sautee our mushrooms, and the cast iron baking steel and wok to cook the pizzas. Later we found the grill grate perfect to boil water for coffees and hot chocolates.
This is a recipe that could be adjusted about a million different ways! If you don't have butter? Oil works great. Don't like mushrooms? Try peppers instead. The kids loved their fire-roasted cheese pizzas. We also added a few freshly boiled shrimp to another one. What we're saying is bring whatever ingredients you have to the beach, and start cooking! Everything taste better outdoors.
Here's our simple recipe for Mushroom and Arugula pizza:
Makes 2 personal pizzas
Begin by dicing your onion and garlic and roughly chopping the mushrooms. Sautee the vegetables in butter in a skillet over an open fire or a stovetop over medium high heat until onions are translucent and mushrooms are cooked.
Meanwhile, on a board dusted with flour, flatten or roll your pizza dough into two personal sized crusts. Transfer to a sheet pan, or the cast iron baking steel. Top with truffle oil, sauteed mushroom mixture and parmesan cheese and cook covered over a fire, or in a preheated 500 degree oven until bottom of crust is browned (about 5-12 minutes).
Top pizza with arugula and enjoy!
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Imagine a pizza wrapped around a stick and cooked over a campfire.. That's what we're doing here! View the ingredients as suggestions you really can add anything you like! Onion + Thyme Chutney, and Mozzarella Cheese are our fav toppings.
Sea Dough:
Topping/mix-in Suggestions:
Light your fire and let it burn down until you obtain a medium heat. Tip the flour into a large bowl. Make a well in the centre and add 350ml of the warm sea water and yeast. With your fingers, bring the dough together and knead for 10-15 min or until it becomes smooth. You might need to add more sea water if the dough is too dry, as you want a sticky smooth dough. Place back in the floured bowl and cover with a clean tea towel. Rest in a warm spot for 1 hour or until it doubles in size. Punch it down before use and form into ball the size of a golf ball
On a board or tray dusted with polenta, flatten the balls into long, rectangle shapes, about 10cm long, and smear with pesto, savoury jelly or other spread. Tear your cheese into pieces and scatter over the spread, then add any other mix-ins and a drizzle of olive oil. Fold the dough over on itself and then wrap around your stick and cook over the fire, rotating until cooked through, about 5 min. Don’t worry if the crust gets a little burnt, it just adds to the flavour. Eat and enjoy straight off the stick!
Makes about 10
This recipe is adapted from our favourite cook book Wild Adventure cookbook by Sarah Glover. You can also find it along with a collection of other delicious local recipes from Picot Collective's Community Cook book Volume 1
]]>Salt Spring Island is always doing things a little different, Community is what they're known for. The Businesses on our Gulf Island continue to keep creative, inventive, and adaptable. We are seeing now more than ever how adaptable Island life can be as free deliveries, pick-up windows, and the words Zoom video become regular installations in our day. We wanted to use this space to highlight just a handful of the ways businesses and individuals around us are adapting the way they serve so they can continue providing routine and comfort through these unprecedented times.
Nest Hot Yoga Has moved Online! You can find their most up to date schedule on their website
The Great Outdoors | FREE | there is always nature, we suggest heading out for a hike or to secluded areas of the island to find your balance. Plus you can always go for a drive and roll through a farm stand or two to see what you can find!
Twang and Pearl | you can still support the twang nation online
Salt Spring Market | Tuesday + Saturday markets are open for farmers so you can support local growers.
Bullock Lake Farm | is providing online flower orders + deliveries!
Chef Haidee Hart | is serving up fresh to-go meals to her farms stand on King Road in the south end. Keep up with her daily creations on her instagram.
Salt Spring Island Ales | is going to be delivering beer to your door soon!
Pasta Fresca | is still open for walk-in pick-ups with their regular hours, the perfect dinner option!
Switchboard Cafe | Three Words: DONUT DELIVERY SUNDAYS! Online Ordering Available.
Francis Bread | is open for all your bread desires. You can order online and pick up during their regular hours.
What are your favourite spots doing to keep the ball rolling during these uncertain times? Share in the comments. Stay safe and stay home.
- The SALT Team
]]>We are so lucky that Victoria's small biz community is creative, inventive, and adaptable. We are seeing their strengths now more than ever as free deliveries, pick-up windows, and the words Zoom video become regular installations in our day. We wanted to use this space to highlight just a handful of the ways businesses and individuals around us are adapting the way they serve so they can continue providing routine and comfort through these unprecedented times.
Third space Movement | By donation | providing regularly scheduled workout classes over ZOOM video and on Youtube.
Fernwood Yoga | FREE with donations accepted | providing regularly scheduled yoga classes over ZOOM video.
Jenny Hindley Yoga | FREE | local yoga teacher providing yoga sessions on YouTube. Jenny normally does weekly yoga with our staff at the office and we love and miss her classes!
This is Good | FREE | regularly scheduled Finishing classes via ZOOM video. Their finishing classes are co-working sessions in which you are provided dedicated time work towards completing projects that are important to you. Think of it as a group of creative accountability buddies!
The Regional Assembly of Text | FREE | providing letter writing prompts through their Stay Stationary, Send Stationary campaign. A great way to send a little love to friends near and far.
Royal BC Museum | FREE | Has started webinars and online playdates for children and homeschooling parents. As well as virtual interviews with their curators each week for the adults and lifelong students.
Russell Books | always provides free shipping on Canadian orders over $50 but has now instated a pick-up window as well for safe book shopping without the need to enter their (new and fabulous) storefront.
Kwench | has opened The Craic. A series of interactive courses, debates, workshops and classes. They have everything on there from ukulele classes to show-and-tell. Definitely something to check out if you're craving some fun socialization!
Whistle Buoy | has gone full-fledged beer delivery business with three daily delivery windows.
Rootside Soda | Free local delivery on all their products with no minimum order charge.
Ruth + Dean | serving take-home meal prep so you and your family can enjoy a warming wholesome dish.
Nourish Kitchen | Their pantry staples such as bone broth, pancake mixes, and cashew cheeses are available for pick up when ordered online.
West Coast Refill | Still providing pick up using sanitized containers for all you home cleaning needs with their eyes on local delivery.
Thorn & Thistle | Is selling flats of veggie starts online with free local delivery so you can get your soon-to-be-delicious home vegetable garden up and running.
What are your favourite spots doing to keep the ball rolling during these uncertain times? Share in the comments. Stay safe and stay home.
- The SALT Team
]]>The team at SALT decided to close our doors to the public on March 17th. We did this to support the movement of social distancing and to flattening the curve. I instantly felt a sense of relief, followed by sadness having made this decision. It was a very hard one as it impacts all my staff, makers and supply accounts for the SALT brand; this choice halts everything. Moving forward from that moment I asked myself what's next.
Like many entrepreneurs my brain jumped into overdrive on how to get thru this. I came up with online initiatives for SALT and it also landed on the need to be in the know with the resources that are being put forth by the Government of Canada. Which led me to think, if i'm learning about it, I can share it with all of you!
This post will be regularly updated with links and information on how to apply for all of the funding available for access by the Government of Canada. I will do my best to explain how, when and who can apply. We are all in this together, this is my part in helping all of you to access the funds you need to get thru this storm.
UPDATES TO THE CERB (CANADIAN EMERGENCY RESPONSE BENEFIT).
The CERB has been adjusted to include Canadians who are still employed but are earning less than $1000 per eligibility period. March 15-April 11 is the first period. April 12-May 9 is the next upcoming period and both have open applications on the CRA website. This is open to self-employed and part-time employees.
Today I looked into a few things to make sure this post was up to date. Some things I added to the funding section are the The Canada Emergency Business Account which explains the 40,000 no/low interest loans. As well as the Business Credit Availability Program. Which was launched early March. It is the loans you can access thru the EDC and the BDC. Hope down to the funding section to learn more.
The government has announced a few new support incentives for small business. The first is an increase to the wage subsidy, from 10% to 75%!!! The second, is a promise from the government to grantee loans, See below.
Under certain conditions, up to $10,000 of the loans could be non-repayable.
Income tax filing deadline has been bumped from April 30 to June 1. This doesn't mean you should put off prepping your taxes. Especially if you were expecting a return, now is the perfect time to file! The payment deadline for income tax has also been bumped to August 31.
A new benefit was announced today, The Canadian Emergency Response Benefit. This benefit it replacing the original two benefits: the one for workers who qualified for Employment Insurance, and the one for workers who didn't. This new emergency response benefit has been augmented from the original proposal announced last week and will provide $52 billion in direct support, instead of the initial $27 billion. Another $55 billion will be accessible in tax deferrals.
Morneau stated this morning, "we expect, will be able to have money to people in the two to three-week time period,"
So hang in there gang, its coming and I will let you know how and when! -Jess
The above is great news, but how do we apply for it!? You can find a TON of information on Canadas COVID-Economic Response Plan webpage linked below.
When you navigate to this page I pay special attention to the Support for Small Business section. If we can get support, we can continue to support those that we work with to continue some sense of normalcy. But the real question is, How to do we access and apply for these funds. Stay tuned, I'm researching it!
CFIB has a page online that is a fantastic resource for independent business's. You can find it linked here. It has some great FAQ's
Today Justin Trudeau announced a $82-billion aid package to help Canadians and small business get thru this unusual time.
The most stress relieving release that I saw today was the following;
Other important plans include:
You can access up $100,000 if needed quite easily. The government just announced that they are reducing the risk weighted asset rules to 1.25% so if you couldn't get funding before, you might be able to now! APPLY - it can't hurt.
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THE CANADIAN EMERGENCY BUSINESS ACCOUNT (CEBA LOAN) | This will offer business's interest-free loans of up to $40,000 with up to 25% ($10,000) is forgivable loan if it’s repaid by Dec 31 2022.
FAST FACTS
TO QUALIFY THE BUSINESS MUST
You can apply for a CEBA Loan through The bank that houses your primary business operating account.
THE BUSINESS WON'T QUALITY IF
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THE BUSINESS CREDIT AVAILABILITY PROGRAM | Also know as BCAP, this program will provide additional support through the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and Export Development Canada (EDC).
BDC* | The BDC is working with financial institutions to co-lend term loans to small and medium sized business for their operational cash flow requirements. Their webpage dedicated to the support of entrepreneurs impacted by the Coronavirus is great. I seriously advise you all to apply. The payments are deferred for 6months. See link here.
EDC | The EDC is working with financial institutions to issue new operating credit and cash flow term loans. You can find there Corona-19 page here.
THE CANADA EMERGENCY WAGE SUBSIDY (30% Loss or more)
We feel this subsidy supports both the business and the employees enabling business to return to normal quickly once this pandemic starts to pass. The subsidy helps with employee retention.
FAST FACTS
How businesses will benefit from the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy
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WORK SHARING (10% Loss or more)
Work Sharing is an adjustment program designed to help employers and employees avoid layoffs when there is a temporary reduction of 10% or more in the normal level of business activity that is beyond the control of the employer. It provides income support to employees eligible for Employment Insurance benefits. It is a three-party agreement between the employer, the employees and Service Canada. Work Sharing agreements must have a minimum duration of 6 weeks. The maximum duration of the agreements has been temporarily extended due to COVID-19, from 38 weeks to 76 weeks. The downside, it takes 30 days for the application to kick in. However it can be hugely helpful to your employees. It may require so paperwork and report pulling. But heck, we can do that from home!
FAST FACTS
For more info + how to apply, take a look at the link here. It's a lot of wordy shit, but its worth applying if you qualify.
THE CANADIAN EMERGENCY RELIEF BENEFIT
This benefit it replacing the original two benefits: the one for workers who qualified for Employment Insurance, and the one for workers who didn't. This new benefit will be available to Canadians who earned $5,000 or more in the past 12 months, but their pay has been affected due to COVID-19. $2,000 a month for the next four months will be provided to people whose earnings have been affected due to COVID-19, regardless of whether they are unwell.
FAST FACTS:
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PAID SICK LEAVE - EVEN FOR FREELANCERS
This is called the "Emergency Care Benefit”. It is available to anyone who doesn't get sick leave through work already.
Ok so it's safe to say that I am obsessed with Thrift Store shopping. I love it. The hunt, the treasures, the scores. I often have an idea of what I am looking for before I head out to the shops but sometimes I am just looking for a little piece of inspiration.
If you are just getting into Thrifting I highly recommend having an idea of what you are looking for, as being surrounded by people's cast aways can be quite overwhelming to the untrained eye.
There are a few items I always keep an eye out for when thrifting:
Leather Shoes ~ Most of my shoes are actually from second hand shops. You can often find lightly used perfectly broken in leather shoes that will last for years to come. If I really love them but they need a little love it is often worth it to get them resoled by your local cobbler especially if they're vintage!
Pottery ~ Look for items with no chips & a signature, they might be worth something! I have found beautiful vases, mugs, serving dishes, and planters that all fit with my aesthetic. Currently searching for a butter crock and honey pot......
Dishes ~ If you are ok to wait and build up a set slowly this is a fun way to do it or if you are down for a little mix and match this can be a creative way to put together your own set. I love mix matched smaller plates but have been slowly collecting my matching set for the last couple years and when I find a piece that is part of the set it's like winning the lottery. I also really appreciate vintage glassware, nothing beats the colours and quality!
Wood Bowls ~ I love these! I use them for everything from serving snacks + salads to keeping miscellaneous bathroom items organized depending on the size & shape.
Wool Blankets ~ Great for our boat, the beach or camping these blankets are warm, well made and make for great camp vibes!
Of course there is much more that can be acquired second hand and I've been able to curate my home with may found pieces over the years such as wall hangings, rugs + furniture.
Happy Thrifting!
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We say it all the time, that we need to save our Oceans, to change our habits, to keep trash out of the sea, but since we aren't seeing the global shift that we really need, we think it bears repeating. We have to ask - does it not seem odd, that more people aren't woeful, or even terrified about the negative effects that have been reported? We know that life on Earth exists primarily because of our abundance of water, so how are we not linking that to how we are treating the planet's Oceans and waterways? In the immortal words of our hero Sylvia Earle "No water, no life. No blue, no green." We dwell in the green, and all around the blue - if they disappear, so do we.
It would seem that the younger population is not as complacent about this reality as some have been in the past. Let's give a shout out to the next generation and their ability to get the world's attention! With the awesome momentum that Greta Thunberg + the global Climate Strikes have created, issues ofall kinds surrounding pollution + Climate Change are getting a bigger voice. We can all give a big cheers for that!
One topic we are especially happy to see rising to the forefront of this movement is the affect Climate Change is having on our Oceans, and what we are doing that directly affects their health - that's unfortunately not a short list. We want to bring a little extra awareness to one of the biggest issues on that list - microplastic pollution.
Historically speaking, it is no longer surprising when some of the smallest culprits become the biggest problems. Mosquitos carry some of the world's deadliest viruses, germs we can't even see cause epidemics, and here we are in the middle of a different kind of sickness caused by tiny offenders that has been evolving for decades. It's sadly not unforeseen that the plastics that are floating around in the sea are breaking down and getting into everything - Arctic ice, fish bellies, RAIN!, AIR!, our food - which means it's in us too! We know this is wrecking havoc on marine life + their habitats, what we don't know is what are the long term effects on the rest of the world, and on our own bodies? Nothing is boding well at this point.
The textiles industry is a bigger contributor than we'd like to think, maybe even one of the worst, especially fast fashion producers. If we aren't wearing sustainable fabrics, or using a product like the Guppyfriend Washing Bag to help capture microfibres, then every time we do laundry, the fibres released from any synthetic clothing get dumped into our waterways + will stay there forever. That is a big reason we chose to create from natural fibres - they are biodegradable, plastics are not. We haven't reached perfection in our fabrics yet, but we are researching constantly to find the best options for our bodies + our planet.
We aren't scientists, and we are very grateful for the minds out there who are putting their research efforts towards finding answers that will wake up the public + hopefully garner enough lobbying power to see real change from policy makers. That being noted, we know those in the know can say it better than we can. Check out these articles + videos that highlight the ways microplastics harm our Oceans, and what else is being done to understand the growing impact they are having on our environment as a whole.
We're so happy that the microplastics problem that our Oceans are facing is finally getting the attention it deserves, or at least, the start of it. There is much more research needed to understand what the lasting affects of this toxic habit we have will be. Let's hope that the powers that be recognize that there need to be significant shifts in policy (especially for industry) for us to conquer these issues going forward, and actually enact them. And we, as the public, can help that change by using our dollars, our votes, + our voices to make a difference. Don't wait.
Support organizations trying to make a difference!
]]>Get a group of your closest buds together, pick a day or two that works for everyone, and commit to it. So often the reason we don't do this kind of thing is limits on our time. If you don't set it aside though, it won't happen. Parents, rustle up some childcare (overnight if you can shake it), you need time to connect with friends too!
Have everyone pitch in with planning + execution. We're willing to bet that within every group there exists different strengths for things that you would normally have to pay someone to do for you. Make the themes revolve around connection, health, the natural world, + slowing down for some conscious re-charging. We have a few ideas to get you started.
Get Artsy - Nominate your most artistic friend to plan a session where you all create together. If they have a particular skill to share, do that! If not, there are all kinds of ways to be creative together that don't involve a ton of supplies. Get thrift store mugs and paint them; do a paint-night style session where you all paint from the same picture; get blank cards + DIY them; have everyone bring a fav photo or piece of art, + upgrade thrifted frames with paint or stain + frame your mementos; pick a piece of clothing you want to alter + dye it, patch it, distress it, to give it new life. There are so many options! If you can't compile what you need from your own homes, look for supplies like brushes, canvas, frames, even blank cards at second hand stores.
Exercise - Everyone will benefit from moving more, but here on the West Coast, this is easily one of the most nourishing things you can do. We have so much natural beauty surrounding us. Get outside + hike to the top of a nearby mountain, or find a long walk along the Ocean (bonus points if you do both!). Getting moving outside is something we all need!
Clothing Swap - Get everyone to go through their closets + bring anything they would donate. Toss it in a neat pile in the middle of a room and swap! If you want, include shoes + home decor items. Everything left over gets donated to good will.
Meals - Collaborate on a meal plan full of nourishing foods. Unless you have one person who wants to take on all the cooking, divide up the meals and have someone different lead each meal and the rest help with prep and cleaning, so the division of labour is broken up. If you can find a market or a store that sources from local farmers, so much the better! Connecting with each other + with your food is the important part. For an extra elevation - have everyone bring a drink of their choice for your evening meal and share via tasters for your own DIY tasting. Or have your super talented chef friend teach everyone to make something, like an at home cooking class.
Yoga/Meditation - If you have a friend who is a teacher, or just a great home practitioner, ask them to create a beginner routine that they can lead everyone through. If not, then find something online that you can easily follow along to. Set your space up so it is calm + there are minimal distractions. Burn incense or candles to add the sense of scent into your practice.
Self-Connection - After this session, or really whenever suits your group, have everyone take a focused hour to themselves, even if you're all still in the same room. This could be for writing and reflecting, for resting, for moving, for listening to a guided reflection or music - whatever you each individually need to mindfully connect with yourself. If you're the types for sharing, come back together for a debrief after, but not essential.
Exploring - One of the most funs parts of getting away somewhere new can be exploring the town and surrounding areas. If you want/have time, have everyone pick 1-2 shops or spots in your town that you can toss into the mix for an exploring session. Ask that they all have a focus on sustainability, like they are conscious retailers, second-hand (consignment + thrift), or they involve an experience, be it inside or out.
Sleep Over - Remember how much fun it was to stay overnight together as youngsters? That connection that comes from falling asleep talking, or giggling? Even just sharing in peacefully drifting off surrounded by people you love. We don't get the chance to do that as often as adults. Hopefully you'll have someone willing to volunteer their house to have a sleep over so you can continue the fun for longer!
These are only a handful of ideas. Every group of friends is going to have a different set of interests + skills to bring together. Every experience will be unique + beneficial in different ways, and hopefully everyone will enjoy some meaningful time spent with friends. And you never know, it could be your new thing! How fun would it be to do annually? We hope you do it + love it. Share your ideas with us, we want to hear them!
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Fall - the time for cozy sweaters, hot tea, and misty mornings. The urge to bundle up inside while it rains and winds is strong this time of year. More than ever though, we need to commit to time outdoors to balance ourselves.
As we transition into greyer months, we all see a lot less of the sun, and could be in danger of seeing our bright moods fade with the darker days. The sun may hide away for the next few months, but we don't have to. What makes a true West Coaster if not a year-round love for the outdoors, no matter what the weather? Don't let the rain or the chill deter you - it is still really important for us to spend time outside to keep our health balanced and our moods high.
Whether it's just a hum drum attitude, or something more serious like Seasonal Affective Disorder, there are ways to combat the downer days that can accompany longer dark spells. Did you know that spending time near the water - Ocean, river, or otherwise - can help lift you up? (really, is there anything water can't do?) It goes beyond a cleansing feeling, and takes us back to basic chemistry. We are all made up of atoms, which have a balance of energy inside them made up of positive, negative, + neutral particles. Sometimes, these particles get "traded" back and forth, creating Ions, which have positive or negative balances. We won't get into the chemistry more than that (mostly, because we don't want to make a mistake! It's been a long time since High School Science class), but we can talk a little bit about how those Ions affect us.
Apparently, the way we have constructed our lives means that we have a lot of Positive Ions coming at us from electrical equipment like TVs, computers, cell phones, printers, and other commonly used devices. They have been shown to have a negative affect on our bodies when exposed to them in excess, which by the sounds of it, we are constantly!
"An excess of positively charged ions in your environment can contribute to tiredness and a lack of energy, tension, anxiety and irritability. Positive Ions in the air have even been investigated as a contributing factor for asthma, allergies, migraines and depression." - negativeionizers.net
That doesn't sound great, eh? So what's to be done? Find a balance with Negative Ions. Negative Ions occur in great numbers in nature - in forests and moving water, like the Ocean! Cities can be "Positive Ion prisons" with all the electronics and pollutants they contain. Considering that we are beings of this Earth, it should be no surprise that getting back to a natural environment is what is best for us. And apparently this isn't news to us - scientists from eras far before ours have studied the affects of moods from things like waterfalls and storms, where a lot of Negative Ions are produced. These negatively charged atoms have been linked to cleaner air, decreased airborne bacteria, decreased stress, lower blood pressure, better sleep, and improved well-being and mental clarity (among other things).
So what we're saying, is although you may have to pack away your bikini for the next few months, don't stop scheduling in regular beach visits and forest walks. It's not just the calming rhythm of the waves or misty evergreens that boost our moods, it is air we breath in around these natural places, purified by Negative Ions, that recharge us and bring us new energy.
Living in coastal communities gives us the advantage to be able to visit the Ocean often. Not everyone is a year round boater, but for those of you who are, we applaud your commitment! You won't want to be out if it's stormy and dangerous, that's what those cozy days are for. If you do have a boat in the water though, do take advantage of calm Fall waters to get out and connect with the healing energy that the Ocean provides us.
Next time you're feeling a bit low, stroll the beach, walk the trails, follow the river, and let the powers of the outdoors heal you. Make it a goal to do it every week and keep your mood boosted all year long!
]]>That's a romantic, even sexy image that we've seen again and again in the media over the years. How many sexy shave scenes of women can you think of? Probably not many, or none. The narrative around women's shaving up until the last few years has been one we were meant to keep hidden behind the shower curtain. We were meant to show up smooth and well groomed without razor burn or complaining about ingrowns. And us considering the idea that we could show up unshaved at all? Shocking! Shaving trends have come + gone since the dawn of civilization, and thankfully, we're back to a time when women finally have a choice to shave or not, although it is still arguably steeped in controversy.
If you are in the shave club, you need the proper tools to make it happen. We don't want to be rubbing hair off our skin with pumice stones like they did in ancient times (ouch!). The unfortunate thing is that since it became the norm for ladies to shave, it also became the norm to use multi-blade disposable razors and heads. These plastic atrocities are now clogging our landfills + Oceans, and they sure aren't going anywhere safe any time soon (Will we never get it right the first time?). What's the best way forward?
Photo Credit: Christie Graham
The ladies of well kept found themselves asking this question too. Having shifted their lifestyles to include more sustainable options, Emilie Johnson + Natalie Farrell discovered a void for quality, sustainable products for women's shaving needs, and decided to fill it themselves. They have created a line of lovely, sustainable self-care products that will take the chore out of shaving and make it an enjoyable ritual.
The company was born out of a genuine need to create beautiful things that help rather than harm the planet, and has grown from there. They started with a wooden handled razor, which has now been replaced with a sturdy brass safety razor that has gained an enthusiastic following. For those new to the safety razor world, the most important thing to know is that it is the last razor you should ever have to buy. The well kept team has provided us with a simple 3-piece safety razor that takes a standard recyclable razor blade. In the long run, it is more cost effective, offers a more precise and closer shave, and is less likely to irritate your skin. And best of all - you're not tossing plastic handles and blades into landfills, ever!
There seems to be a little fear out there about switching to a safety razor - we get that. Most of us have been trained our whole lives to depend on a chunky, plastic guard to cover the multiple blades we've been told we need. A safety razor is called that for a reason - it is still designed with a guard, it just looks different. well kept (and our team here who is loving them!) promises that with a little practice, there is no need to be afraid. Go slow the first few times you use one to get used to it, as it is heavier than a plastic option, and you will be just fine. The well kept ladies have written an excellent "how to" guide to go along with them, which you can find here.
Photo Credit: Well Kept
To enhance the experience of shaving with a quality razor, Emilie + Natalie have brought luxurious shave oils, soaking salts + milks, + other beautiful items into their line to accompany their razors, all sourced + produced with the well being of the planet in mind. It helps that everything they make not only makes you feel great, but looks great in your bathroom, right down to the packaging. Surrounding yourself with things that you find aesthetically appealing keeps the mind calm + happy.
As Vancouver based gals, these co-founders spend a lot of time around the Ocean, so naturally their desire to keep the world clean intersects with a passion for the sea. Their hearts break knowing our trash is ending up clogging the homes + bodies of marine life, and showing up on our shores. They committed to their own beach cleaning initiative - #KeepTheBeachWellKept - which for them "...means picking up 5-10 pieces, or more, of garbage that is washing up on our shores every time [they] are at the beach." We love that! The Ocean to them is a way to reset yourself, which anyone who runs a small business knows is a necessity, as often as you can find a moment away from your never ending To Do list.
We love supporting women-led companies, especially those so aligned with our values. We invite you to do your part to #KeepTheBeachWellKept by cleaning up our beaches, and by making the switch from disposable + convenient, to long-lasting + beautiful tools + products for your shaving.
Their razors have done so well in stores we are having trouble keeping them on the shelves! Visit us today to talk to our staff about making the switch to a more sustainable shave life.
]]>The sun is shining, the sand is hot, and the sound of the waves is lulling you into a peaceful calm. Relaxing days on the beach is what us West Coast mariners live for in the summer. Our wicker bags, flip flops, and life jackets are always by the door ready to go. We become expert picnic packers. Just add saltwater and sunshine!
What better way to kick back against a driftwood log than with a mojito! With very few ingredients and little prep, you will be on your way to a perfect beach day in no time. Follow along for our go-to (read: made up) recipe that we whipped up on a recent Staff adventure day.
Ingredients
White rum
Lime
Mint
Coconut Sugar
Club Soda
Ice
Tip: Ice might not make it in the cooler on a hot day. Dig a little hole in the sand when you get to the beach + chill your rum + soda in the cool Pacific waters.
We could give you measurements, but who is measuring things on the beach? We're not. Pack whatever pitcher you have in the cupboard, it will probably be close to 2L. Depending on how many people you have with you and how long your afternoon will be, you'll want to pack enough supplies to fill it a time or two.
To start, squeeze a few limes into the bottom of the pitcher. Add in a handful of mint (preferably from someone's backyard), and a few cautious spoonfuls of sugar. You can always add more sweetness later if you like, but you want the drink to keep its fresh zing. Muddle the lime, mint, and sugar together. We used coconut sugar to keep it natural. If you're prepared, you'll have a wooden spoon, or you can source a piece of appropriately sized driftwood! Don't over muddle, or the mint will become mush; just enough to get those flavours mixing.
Pour in about 8-12 oz of rum, and top with soda. If you have ice that hasn't melted yet, throw some in there, and a few rounds of lime. Garnish with fresh fruit like raspberries or pineapple for a fun twist.
Pour into reuseable glasses or jars, and cheers to a great day! We used our re-useable glasses from our SALT candles. You can burn them down to the bottom, clean them out, and use them again and again for all kinds of bevies. Ahhhh, refreshing + sustainable!
Be sure that the last step of any of your beach adventures is packing out what you pack in. Even the biodegradable items like lime rinds need to be tossed into an appropriate spot to keep the beach clean for everyone, including marine life. Responsible beaching means more beaching for everyone!
]]>Here in the Pacific Northwest, we are lucky enough to have two worlds to explore - above and below the water. It's no surprise that we are particularly enamoured with the beauty of our underwater ecosystems. Did you know we have some fo the best cold water diving in the world? Jacques Cousteau himself said that British Columbia has “the best temperate water diving in the world, and second only to the Red Sea.” Pretty high praise!
If you grew up right on the Ocean, our local marine life that hangs out on our shores will seem relatively normal to see regularly. Venture out just a little further and there is a jungle of colours and creatures underwater that we bet anyone, from near or far, would be delighted to see up close. Here are a few creatures we get excited to find when we dive under.
Giant Pacific Octopus
Believe it or not, our coast is home to the largest octopus in all of the oceans! That is pretty awesome. All marine creatures are spectacular, but Octopuses are a special kind of amazing. These are the largest and longest lived of all the species, with an average length of 16 feet and average lifespan of four years. They are generally a reddish brown colour, but they can change colour to blend in with their surroundings. They will die after they breed, with the females living about 6 months to tend to her eggs, a period in which she doesn't eat! Octopus are seriously smart and mischievous creatures. We marvel at them every time we are lucky enough to see one!
Sunflower Seastar
The purple starfish you will commonly see along our tidal shores is like the small cousin of this seastar. Sunflower seastars usually have 16-24 limbs, which they can shed and re-grow, and can grow up to a metre across! They have thousands of tiny tube feet along the underside of their limbs that allow them to move at one metre/minute, the fastest pace of any seastar in the area. These flowerly looking creatures are actually predators. They will feed on shellfish, sea cucumbers, snails, urchins (their favourite), and more. Their colour varies from bright oranges and reds, to deep purples. You will find them hanging around seaweed beds, hunting and avoiding King Crabs, who like to feed on them.
Wolf Eel
This very long creature is actually a fish, not an eel, despite its name. They can grow up to 6-8 feet, and weigh up to 18 kg. While not the most attractive fish, they are actually very romantic, pairing up in long-term relationships and making homes, or "dens" together in rocky crevices. If they live up to their maximum life span of around 25 years, they may stay with their mates for the better part of two decades. That's commitment. Their large mouths are designed to get past the spiky exterior of a sea urchin, or break open shellfish and crabs. Although known to be curious enough to approach divers, they should still be given space.
Photo Credit to eikojonesphotography.com
Rockfish
There are many spiky, spiney fish that fall into the rockfish category, we couldn't pick just one. These fish range in colour from the browns and bieges of their surroundings, to vibrant red, orange, and yellow (Check out a great gallery of the many species here). Most people seeing them for the first time would rightly assume they might be dangerous to the touch. These fish are characterized by "...dorsal, pelvic and anal fins equipped with very sharp spines that contain a trace of mildly toxic venom." If they keep themselves safe, some of these fish can live up to a couple centuries. Not quite prehistoric, but a good long life!
Photo Credit to Racerocks.ca
Giant Plumose Anemone
Anemones are like living flowers of the underwater world. There are so many amazing varieties the world over. The Plumose Anemone is a tall column, with a fluffy looking tuft of thin, short tentacles, sort of like the head of a cauliflower. They are usually white, but can be brown, tan, or pinkish. When touched or threatened, the tentacles may retract into the column, and shrink down. Don't let that mislead you to think they are shy though. Anemones are carnivores. They will suck small animals in with their tentacles and into the centre of their oral discs to be devoured. Pretty, but deadly to small marine life!
Bull Kelp
We know this isn't a creature, but it sure is home to many, so we think it deserves an honourable mention. This beautiful marine plant grows up to 60 ft tall, and waves its supple blades in the waters like leaves on a tree. It is an annual seaweed, growing from spore to maturity in a year. Fish, crabs, urchins, seastars, otters, and more hide amongst it's stalks for safety and for play. If you grew up on the coast, you might have played jump rope on the beach with long dried tendrils of kelp, or used the head as a make believe bowl. Fun for the whole family!
This is only a small snap shot of the things that you could discover in our salty seas. We hope that you find a little inspiration in the beauty of these creatures to get out and interact with the Ocean. There is a whole new world down there! And wherever you are, do remember to respect the marine habitat of where you are diving and give creatures the space they need.
If you have never been exploring underwater and are looking to start, head to Frank Whites Dive Store in Victoria for gear, courses, and expert advice on all types of Ocean recreation.
For those of you who are already big into the diving scene, what are your favourite things to see underwater? And if you're willing to share, what are your favourite spots?
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There is no arguing that summer is the best time to be out on the water. It's calmer, it's warm - everything is sparkling. It's the ideal time to interact with our coasts as often as you can. Whether you are looking forward to a few weeks away in a destination you've planned for months, or you are tossing the lines off the dock on a sunny afternoon and setting off to wherever the tide takes you (we hope you get to do this often!), we encourage you to get out there and celebrate the beauty of our coast.
We here on the West Coast of Canada are blessed with a ton of small islands to explore. Why not get out there and find some awesome coastal hideaways? There are so many hidden (and some not so hidden) spots to discover and tour. Here are a few of our favourites in the waters nearby the Southern end of Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.
Boat Only
For the mariner who wants to visit those special spots only accessible by the sea, these gems are worth dropping anchor for.
Just a few kilometres away from Sidney, BC, this narrow finger of land offers thousands of metres of white sandy beaches to wander along. Perfect for a sunbathe, a picnic, or a long, leisurely ocean-side stroll. Pretty much as close as us cold-water mariners are going to get to tropical in these parts!
Get ready to explore the cliffs and beaches along over 10km of walking trails that traverse this Island. Count how many different trees you can find, and identify which grew naturally, and which are part of gardens planted long ago. Pro Tip: Look for fruit you can forage...we give you our totally unofficial permission. Located between Sidney and Salt Spring Island.
A good stop for a spot with a little extra history. There are still remnants of the Hawaiian Mahoi natives who originally inhabited the Island in the late 1880s. (We sort of get why they left for hotter climates) Located at the entrance to Fulford Harbour on Salt Spring Island.
There is something inexplicably sweet & calm about this little place. Make your trip an overnighter and stay in one of the campsites (pit toilets & picnic tables available). There is a small dingy dock to tie up to, and stern tie rings to claim. Located in the Trincomali Channel between Salt Spring and Galiano Islands.
Boat or Car
If you're not sure what your summer plans are yet, or you just prefer the spontaneity of heading off on a weekend, boat or car, to whatever local destination is next on the list, these options give you more travel choices, as they can be reached by boat or car.
Our hometown! Ganges is at the heart of the biggest of the Southern Gulf Islands, and is where SALT's first store is located. Whether you're coming by ferry, or by a boat of your own, you'll be able to enjoy wandering through the shops, sitting in our restaurants, & interacting with our eccentric locals. Saturdays are busiest but they treat you to the infamous Saturday Market full of local food and artisanal creations. It's a must attend. We're a little biased, but we think it's a great spot to spend a day or a weekend!
A bay of rustic buildings and notable charm, with a restaurant that totes a number of high reviews. A good place to relax, or get out and stretch your legs with a hike. Located on Vancouver Island, near Duncan.
A little further North across from Nanaimo, you'll find this small but thriving community. A stop in here promises parks, beaches, and fresh local cuisine. Rent a bike or a scooter and tour the island beyond the marina!
Along the way to any of these beautiful West Coast spots, there are multiple opportunities to swim, fish, and watch marine life like seals, otters, and if you are extra lucky, dolphins or whales. We have one of the most diverse populations of cold-water marine life living in our waters. Spot a spider crab hanging onto bull kelp, vibrant purple starfish clinging to rocks, or playful sea anemones waving their tentacles in a tidal pool or peeking out from under a dock. All these creatures and the habitats they live in deserve our protection. On your merry travels, take care with your waste, your fuel, and where you plant your feet as you walk. Responsible visitors mean those places you so enjoy discovering stay beautiful for generations to come.
Stay safe and Bon Voyage! We'll see you on the water!
Where are your favourite places to come ashore in the summer? We are always looking for our next favourite spot! Seriously, we showed you ours, you show us yours.
]]>A lone surfer waits in the waves. Legs straddling her board, bobbing up and down with the timing of the tides. Hot sun beats down on her freckled shoulders. She is simultaneously at complete, unburdened peace, and in-tune with the cadence of the waves as she watches for her next peak. She is one, she is all, she is home.
There are a lot of things we do that are harming the oceans - we know, we say it a lot. We're not going to make a long, overwhelming list that we can't fathom tackling all at once though, we'd rather focus on one thing we're doing that has a pretty easy fix. We are looking specifically at coral. Coral bleaching is becoming one of the saddest and most obvious affects of ocean changes and pollution.
"Warmer water temperatures can result in coral bleaching. When water is too warm, corals will expel the algae (zooxanthellae) living in their tissues causing the coral to turn completely white. This is called coral bleaching. When a coral bleaches, it is not dead. Corals can survive a bleaching event, but they are under more stress and are subject to mortality." - NOAA
Top contributors are changes in the ocean's temperature, overexposure to sunlight, extreme low tides, and chemical pollution. Now, there is no easy fix for most of these factors, but we can at least be more responsible in our behaviour when we are entering the water. We might not think about it, but wearing toxic chemicals into the ocean in the form of sunscreens, lotions, and deodorants is damaging to our marine ecosystems.
"When you swim with sunscreen on, chemicals like oxybenzone can seep into the water, where they’re absorbed by corals. These substances can disrupt coral’s reproduction and growth cycles, ultimately leading to bleaching.
Even if you don’t go swimming after applying sunscreen, it can still go down drains when you shower. Aerosol can often spray large amounts of sunscreen onto sand, where it gets washed into our oceans. Each year, about 14,000 tons of sunscreen end up in our oceans." - National Geographic
We still need to protect ourselves from damaging rays, and keep our sweat down. The clear choice is to opt for products making an effort to eliminate the kinds of ingredients that are harmful to the ocean, and to our bodies. It really seems pretty obvious, right?
As part of our mission to protect the ocean, we are stocking up on sunscreen, deodorant, and lip balm from Salt & Stone, "...a natural unisex skin care brand based out of Los Angeles, California, with a strong focus on natural, organic, and antioxidant rich ingredients."
Salt & Stone was founded in 2017 by Nima Jalali. Having spent the better part of his twenties traveling the world as a professional snowboarder, Nima knew what kind of products people who love interacting with the outdoors needed, but he wanted to do it better than the status quo. He was inspired to create organic, natural products that work just as well as (or better than) the common chemical laden options. Nima feels it is our duty and responsibility as global citizens to look after our Earth, and create biodegradable products that will reduce our footprint. We agree!
Salt & Stone currently offers sunscreens, a deodorant, lip balms, and moisturizing oils to care for our skin that we can safely wear into the ocean and wash down our drains. Sunscreen has become a heated topic lately, as our reefs degrade further and further. Salt & Stone's options are formulated using Non-Nano Zinc Oxide. The "Non-Nano" part is important for a few reasons: 1) It means it will sit on top of your skin and reflect UVA + UVB rays, not enter your bloodstream like a chemical sunscreen, so it is safer for us. 2) In order for mineral sunscreens to leave corals untouched, the ingredient particles must be above 100 nanometers in size so that they cannot be ingested by corals. So non-nano is also safer for the marine environment.
Recently, Hawaii has become the first state to introduce a bill banning all sunscreens that contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, chemicals known to be harmful to coral. There have bee a few other places in the world to make similar moves, but as Hawaii is such a popular destination and has a huge surfing community, we are hoping that their bold stance will bring global attention to this issue. Mahalo!
We are excited to have Salt & Stone deodorant in stores for the first time (it smells so good!). It is already one of our most popular items ever! Nima describes this formula as "an extra strength formula for those who are very active." Salt & Stone has spent over 2 years developing the formula and truly believe they have created the most effective natural deodorant ever made. Being that Nima's favourite thing about the ocean is that it creates surf to ride, we figure he has tested the effectiveness of his products first hand many times.
As a serious athlete, we know that Nima needs to have functional products, and we rejoice in the fact that he has taken the natural route to develop them and create a company that believes in his mission.
"We care about using safe and clean ingredients that we ourselves use every day. We use organic ingredients whenever possible so we can support organic farming and avoid the use of all synthetic chemicals which are used in non-organic farming.
We research and develop formulas with ingredients grown ethically and sustainably without the use of pesticides, artificial fragrances, sulfates, silicones, petrochemicals, parabens, phthalates or GMO’s. All of our packaging is recyclable and made from post consumer recycled materials."
Salt & Stone thinks about every step of the product life cycle, and is always striving for a smaller carbon footprint as they work to expand their SPF and deodorant range in the years to come. We are stoked to have discovered them now, and we can't wait to see how they develop in the future.
With our population growing, and our climate changing, the demand for skin care products is only getting higher. We hope that with a combination of passionate, responsible entrepreneurs like Nima, and progress in our legislation, that we will see brands like Salt & Stone become the new normal.
So many humans on this planet value our oceans. And yet, there is too much disconnect between our every day actions, and the impact they have on our blue waters. For those of us who live near the sea, we see every day the beauty, utility, and awe-inspiring complexity that the oceans provide us and its ecosystems, but not everyone has those consistent reminders. We have to have the conversations that educate people so they can make the right choices, and support companies who are making conscious production decisions.
Find Salt & Stone products in-stores or online to be ready for a summer of responsible ocean adventure!
]]>When you think about marine life in the Pacific Northwest, it is unlikely that Orcas won't come up. They have become an icon of our waters. One of the biggest, and most striking animals that represents our stretch of sea, their black and white colouring makes them unmistakable. Although they can be found in other oceans in the world, we do have a relatively high concentration of them residing along the West Coast of North America. They can be even more densely found in the Antarctic, and seem to be able to acclimatize to almost any water temperature. They usually prefer a coastal habitat as opposed to open ocean, although some of the transient pods can be found nearly anywhere from time to time.
Did you know that they are actually dolphins? Or part of the Oceanic Dolphin family more specifically. They are the largest species in the category, weighing up to 10 tonnes and measuring up to 30 feet. There are several biological features that qualify a species into this category. Notable are their fins and their body shapes.
"Oceanic dolphins have a torpedo-shaped body with an inflexible neck,...and a bulbous head. A dolphin skull has small eye orbits,...and eyes placed on the sides of its head. [They] have two flippers on the underside toward the head, a dorsal fin, and a tail fin." -Wikipedia
They are all carnivorous, and can have up to 200 large teeth. Orcas consume other small marine mammals like seals, in addition to fish and squid. They have advanced group hunting techniques, which are really quite remarkable to behold (take a peek here!). Pods from different areas, transient versus resident pods, and the different categories of Orcas within the species will vary in their communication and hunting techniques. Regardless, it would seem that all their methods involve working together. Like many marine mammals, "orcas use echolocation - bouncing sound off of objects to determine their location - to hunt and use a series of high-pitched clicks to stun prey."- defenders.org
Orcas are very intelligent, social animals. They play, they talk, they have familial bonds. There are three broad categories of Orcas: Resident (stick close to shore), Transient (migratory), and Offshore (open ocean dwelling). They travel in pods, which are their families, anywhere from 5-30 on average, although there is no limit to their numbers, save that of their struggle with existence.
What if, they all disappeared?
That question makes your heart beat a little faster, doesn't it? What was the first thing that came to mind? Probably questions like "What is threatening them?" "How many are left?" and hopefully, "What can we do to preserve them?" We'd like the answers to those questions too, so we don't have to watch these amazing mammals fade into history.
Currently, there seems to be a lack of data to tells us the exact status of their global population.
"[Their] global distribution and the confusing relationships between populations/potential new species...contribute to scientists not believing that they have enough data to determine the conservation status of the killer whale. Further study and continued monitoring are both necessary to understand any potential risks that this species faces." - oceana.org
However, it is undeniable that they are a threatened, even endangered species. According to this recently released video, the population of the southern resident whales around British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon is at a 30 year low, with only 74 whales accounted for (although a new calf was spotted recently, which is so exciting!). These whales feed mostly on chinook salmon, a species whose numbers are also in decline due to several factors, with climate change heralded as the leader. Other factors in the decline of the Killer Whale population are likely "...increased noise and overcrowding from boat traffic, and an influx of toxic chemicals in their aquatic ecosystem." - oceana.org Orcas are very sensitive to sound, and it is their main source of communication with each other and their environment. If utilizing sound is your main source of finding food and communicating with your pod, having your environment buzzing with loud boat motors is certain to disrupt these processes.
Reproduction is also a challenge. Mothers give birth only every three to ten years, after a 17-month pregnancy. They give birth to one baby at a time, which may nurse for up to two years. That is a long gestation period, which does not leave time for quick procreation of a species. Their young also have only a 50% survival rate, which is a heartbreakingly low number.
Rising water temperatures, increased toxins in their environment and food sources, lack of food, impending pipelines, captivity, out-right murder - it's not a hard guess as to why the lives of these beautiful creatures are threatened.
As with many species, marine or otherwise, the Orca's relationship with humans and our behaviour has not been entirely positive. Aside from the byproducts of our way of life messing up their home, we made it a common activity to kidnap them for several decades. Our practice of detaining them for entertainment has been under serious scrutiny over the last several years. As any Free Willy loving moviegoer can attest to (does the trailer make you tear up still too?), the idea of a whale being taken from it's family and placed in captivity where it's living quarters, socialization, and food are all inadequate, seems ludicrous. The documentary Blackfish shows the serious dangers of having killer whales in captivity, both to the whales themselves and to humans.
In the wild, Orcas have a natural average life expectancy of 30-50 years. In good health and a good environment, they could even live for 80-100 years. "The average age of death for orcas who have died at SeaWorld is 14 years old." -seaworldofhurt.com Whales in captivity are lonely, depressed, and can even resort to self-harm. They experience very real emotions, and with this evidence you could argue that their mental health affects their life expectancy and ability to reproduce. As of September 2018, there are still 61 orcas being held in captivity (us.whales.org) Hopefully someday, we will see that number fall to zero, and their numbers in the wild increase.
So how can we assist in their preservation? Living more responsible lives, being kind to the ocean, encouraging everyone to do the same - all small steps in the right direction. As it is becoming (or always has been) ever so common, the fight to protect anything on Earth comes down to politics. Lobby for better laws, and better protection. Vote against initiatives that threaten their habitats. Being vocal about wanting them to be safe as much as you can is always going to be a help!
Recently, our Owner & Designer Jessica connected with the Saturna Island Marine Research & Education Society (SIMRES) and was named an Action Ambassador. We look forward to the launch of their Top Actions You Can Take to Help The Southern Resident Killer Whales outreach project. We are excited to work with this excellent local organization to help bring more awareness to the needs of these amazing creatures.
In coastal First Nations cultures, the orca is highly respected for its power and intelligence. They symbolize "...family, romance, longevity, harmony, travel, community and protection." - spiritsofthewestcoast.com After witnessing them, no one can deny that they are magical creatures well-worth protecting.
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