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Crystal Shawanda Canadian Blues Country Music Artist

Canada Country & Blues Musician

Canadian “Living the Dream” in country music

Crystal Shawanda is a Canadian Blues and Country Music Artist who grew up on the Wiikwemkoong First Nation, Manitoulin Island, Ontario. However, today, Crystal is also producing Indigenous music, or as she likes to refer to them, storyteller songs. That suits us just fine, as we are storytelling bloggers who have deep roots in country living and the country lifestyle. No wonder we proudly celebrate Crystal Shawanda with a Merritt Mural in Downtown Merritt BC Canada.

The Beginning of Crystal Shawanda as a Canadian Blues and Country Music Artist

Little do people know that Shawanda was surrounded by country and blues music throughout her childhood. Often, she was sitting back as a child observing her family singing and playing instruments. However, as she aged Crystal’s parents noticed her keen interest in singing and instruments. Therefore , there were little options available but to teach her to sing and play guitar from her home on the lands of an Wiikwemkoong First Nation.

Shawanda used to go with her mother when she cleaned houses. To make the time pass, she would be the DJ.

“I would spin the records while she cleaned and we would both sing at the top of our lungs,” Crystal Shawanda. I remember holding up a Loretta Lynn record and saying, ‘Whatever she does, that’s what I want to do.”

The Younger Years of Country Music

Crystal Shawanda is a Canadian Blues and Country Music Artist who started singing on stage when she was 6, and getting paid gigs by the time she was 10. Consequently, this was the beginning of touring with a theatre company when she was 9.

When Crystal was 12, because her dad was a truck driver, she started taking frequent trips to Nashville. As a result she would walk through downtown Nashville, by all the honky-tonks.

“I’d get up to sing at everyone of them and then we’d get back in the truck and leave. It always kept me wanting more.”

Music School to Music Capital to No Music

After dropping out of music school, Crystal moved to Nashville. Even though, she did not know a soul, and was all alone, she was determined to make something happen. She met a well respected music executive, who told her there was no room for her in country music. She tried to find a positive in the critique as well as take it with gracefulness, but the words stung too much which resulted in her moving back home, and giving up on her dream.

“I just don’t know if Native Americans make sense in country music, I don’t know if fans would be receptive, and I wouldn’t even know how to market you” (respected music executive)

The Low Notes of Country and Blues Music

She started travelling down a dark road on a self destructive path. Somehow that road always had enough light to lead her back to the stage and microphone. Albeit, it was blessing that would help her see and come to terms with what she was dealing with.

The Rise of a Canadian Country and Blues Artist

All things considered, Crystal moved back to Nashville in 2008, with a mission, and a purpose. She played at Tootsie’s Orchid lounge 6 days a week, 3 shifts a day. She created a buzz and landed a production deal with Scott Hendricks. After hearing Crystal cover B.B.King and Janis Joplin a record deal was landed with RCA records by Joe Galante. It was the beginning of Crystal Shawanda Canadian Blues Country Music Artist.

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge in Nashville. Photo credit: iStock Photos

Crystal Shawanda burst onto the country music scene with her hit single, “You Can Let Go,” and her debut album, “Dawn Of A New Day”. September 6th, 2008 marked the Grand Ole Opry debut of this Canadian First Nation songstress.

Dawn of the Day Release Her Inner Country Music

Shawanda’s first album, “Dawn of a New Day”, was released in Canada on June 24, 2008. It would release on Aug 19, 2008 in the United States. The album would chart at number 2 on the Top Country Albums in Canada, and number 16 on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart in the United States. Her album was released in stores internationally, resulting in a top 16 song on the American Billboard Chart.

Her story, female artist who travels to Nashville with a single suitcase, is a common one. However big dreams, and even a bigger voice struck a chord and landed her a ton of success. Following the path of many females before her, Shawanda did not give up.

Aboriginal Awards 2008

Artist of The year
Album of The Year (Dawn of A New Day)
Best Single of The Year (You Can Let Go)

Canadian Aboriginal Awards 2008

Artist of The year
Album of The Year (Dawn of A New Day)
Country Album of The Year
Music Video of The Year (You Can Let Go)
Best Single of The Year (You Can Let Go)

CCMA Awards

She won Female Artist of The Year at the 2008 Canadian Country Music Awards as well as Best New Country Artist at the Canadian Radio Music Awards.

The Junos

Crystal Shawanda Canadian Blues Country Music Artist, was nominated for a Juno Award, five consecutive years since 2009, winning Aboriginal Album Of the Year.

Living The Dream

“I want to inspire people to just take chances, “she said. “It’s not about being perfect, if you love something, go after it.” (Crystal Shawanda)

CMT documented Crystal Shawanda’s, rise to fame in a six-part series Crystal: Living the Dream, which aired in February 2008.

The music scene loves Crystal Shawanda. The realization of how far she’s come, manifested when her feet touched down on Nashville’s country music epicentre- the Grand Ole Opry. “It was definitely the highlight of my whole journey,” she said.

Phyllis Ellis, writer and director of Crystal Shawanda: Living the Dream, said working with Shawanda and visiting her First Nation roots was a benefit to her work and life. “When I first heard her sing, I almost fell over. She is one of the most talented artists I think I’ve ever heard.”

Ellis believes Shawanda is a role model for all young people- Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal alike. She said the songs provoke insight, experience and humour. “Her music is direct. It is not obscure. She addresses things.” Calling Shawanda an “old soul,” Ellis described her as having the “knowledge of a 80-year-old. She is complex, honest and has integrity.”

Country Music Scene and Artists

In light of everything, Shawanda said, it was at the CMT Music Awards, when she shared the stage with such country stars as Martina McBride, Brooks and Dunn and Carrie Underwood, that she realized she had reached her Country goals and dreams.

From time ot time Shawanda toured with various artists across Canada and the northern United States in 2008. She toured Canada and the United States with Brad Paisley and Dierks Bentley as a special guest on the Paisley Party 2009 Tour.

In spite of her success on the country music scene, she released one more country album “Just Like You” in 2014 that resulted in a Juno Award, and a top 20 hit in Canada. In addition the opportunity to perform for millions in New York City for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, televised internationally.

Blues and/or Country Music Artist

As the format of country music started to change Crystal found the feedback to be a resounding “your too bluesy”, and this had her chasing her sound. For this reason, while working on her third country album, she made the decision to abandon the project and take some time off.

“You’re too bluesy. I so wanted to be what everyone wanted me to be” (Crystal Shawanda)

One day during her hiatus while watching the news and feeling overwhelmed by the headlines, she wrote “The Whole World’s Got The Blues”. Finally, this was the inspiration to her first blues album. Furthermore it was a modern take on the blues, but deep rooted. It captures the resilience of the human spirit, much like the way Crystal does.

All in With the Blues

The album garnered a Juno nomination, and received mixed reviews, with moderate airplay, but it opened a whole new world to Crystal. During this time some of the feedback was that Crystal was a country music artist, and couldn’t know the blues. This had her feeling like a fish out of water, which would result in being the inspiration behind her second blues album “Fish out of water in October 2016. Consequently the album was nominated for a Juno award, and received some of the best reviews from the critics since her debut album.

The Dream Continues To Grow

“Voo Doo Woman”, produced by Crystal and her long time guitarist and husband Dewayne Strobel, was released in October, 2017. To clarify Voodoo Woman is Crystal’s third blues album – and the first to be released outside of Canada. This album was a declaration, an affirmation, Crystal Shawanda is a true blues singer.

Crystal Shawanda is a soulful little powerhouse, and will make you feel every word. In particular, she has a voice that’s not like anyone you’ve ever heard, it’s pure and precise, yet at the same time gritty and gutsy .

“I can’t help but feel like I’m home, no longer holding back.” (Crystal Shawanda)

Crystal Shawanda Merritt BC Mural

Crystal Shawanda Canadian Blues Country Music Artist, sometimes referred to as the next Shania Twain, tops the Canadian country music charts with “My Roots are Showing”, and at that time also graced the main stage of The Merritt Mountain Music Festival in 2009.

“I was just blown away and touched.” (Crystal Shawanda)

I was worried because it was starting to get cold and starting to rain right before our show. My band thought, oh no, they’re all going to start heading to their campers and their motorhomes, and to my surprise I came out — at this point it was pouring rain — and everybody was just sitting in their seats.

Smiling Crystal called out if everyone was feeling rowdy tonight? Not so much. They were getting soaked out there. The result was her biggest ovation for her “You Can Let Go Now Daddy” hit.

However, it was after this performance at the 2009 Merritt Mountain Music Festival that, Crystal had her mural painted by Michelle Loughery as part of the 2005 Merritt Mural Project. In other words the Merritt BC Murals were part of a successful program called, the “Merritt Youth Mural Project”. A project designed for working with local young artists and “ youth at risk”.

The Crystal Shawanda mural is included on The Canadian Country Music Mural Walk in downtown Merritt, BC. Hence, Crystal’s mural can be found in Spirit Square on the corner of Granite Avenue and Voght Street, in a row of murals near the stage.

Back To Merritt, BC For The Rodeo

Shawanda came back to play The North America’s Richest Indian Rodeo held in Merritt at the Nicola Valley Rodeo Grounds on May 22, 2010

While she was keeping busy on a North American radio tour, she said she was excited to be playing Merritt again, where she will be able to meet up with old friends and hopefully make some new ones.

She played songs from her albums as well as songs she loves to sing from what she calls her heroes. “I’ll cover Prince, Tina Turner, Johnny Cash, Hank Williams. In other words, it’s just like, what do I feel like singing tonight?”

Welcome the Rockin’ River Music Festival

Crystal Shawanda’s show at the 17th annual Merritt Mountain Music Festival in 2011 was a treat as she played Prince’s Little Red Corvette. Lastly, Crystal has left her mark in Merritt and did return for the 2017 Rockin River Music Fest held every August long weekend in Merritt, BC.

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by Melvina White

Children, Events & Festivals, Merritt, Nicola Valley, Youth

Halloween in Merritt BC – Trick or Treat

Halloween in Merritt BC

Trick or Treating in The Nicola Valley

Celebrating Halloween Oct 31 in Merritt British Columbia Canada

Halloween in Merritt BC – Halloween is celebrated annually on October 31. While being one of the world’s oldest holidays. The community of Merritt additionally recognizes Halloween as one of the most important nights of the year for children including many adults. Although it’s derived from ancient festivals and religious rituals, Halloween is still widely celebrated today in several countries around the globe. In countries such as Ireland, Canada, and the United States. Celebrating “Halloween” in Merritt is a memorable experience.

Scary little people! Photo by Tania Stewart.

Zombie Night! Photo Tania Stewart.

Party with the Ghoul’s Halloween in Merritt BC

Growing up in Merritt B.C., truly was a child’s dream. To say nothing of the excitement of dressing up in costumes and spending the night “Trick Or Treating”. Moreover ending the night with a bonfire while watching the fireworks is a great finish to a scary night. After trick or treating, most people attend parties with neighbors and friends. Furthermore, many downtown businesses have treats for all the goblins. What a great way to Experience Nicola Valley.

Work goes into these costumes. Photo Tania Stewart

Love the costumes. Photo by Tania Stewart

Trick or Treating Halloween

Moreover, the imagination, and construction that goes into these kids’ costumes. Making Halloween in Merritt BC a night to remember. Let’s not forget the countless miles they walk for those treats.

Dracula? Picture by Tania Stewart

Zombie Child! Photo by Tania Stewart

Keep In Mind

Importantly, there is no age requirement to dress up and Trick or Treat on Halloween night in Merritt BC.

Faceless Ghouls. Photo by Tania Stewart

Hallows Night

Halloween is celebrated every year on the evening of October 31st. Being a Celtic historical festival, it also marks the division between the time of year when days are longer than nights and when nights are longer than days. Correspondingly believed to be the day when the border between the world of the dead and the world of the living narrows. An interesting note, the date of Halloween is almost in the middle of the time interval between the fall equinox and the winter solstice.

Scary things will knock at your door! Photo by Tania Stewart

Take all the candy! Photo by Tania Stewart

Halloween Origin

Halloween evolved from the ancient Celtic holiday of Samhain. Over the centuries, Halloween transitioned from a pagan ritual to a day of parties, costumes, jack-o-lanterns, and trick-or-treating for kids and adults. In addition to dressing up as ghosts, demons, and other malevolent creatures, children may perform antics in exchange for food and drink.

Carving time! Photo credit Tania Stewart

Get your Pumpkin and carve away. Even if you have to hire a Vampire with sharp teeth.

Vampires bring teeth! Picture by Tania Stewart.

“Moreover “Spiders” and “Crows” are always welcome on Halloween night in Merritt B.C.” Tania Stewart.

Spiders are always welcome! Photo credit Tania Stewart

Night for the crows. Halloween Photo credit Tania Stewart

Halloween Folklore

In Ireland and Great Britain, the first jack-o’-lanterns were turnips or beets. Carved with demonic faces that are lit inside by a candle. Then placed in a window or on the doorstep to scare Stingy Jack and other evil spirits. Irish and Scottish immigrants brought the custom to Canada and the United States. Adapting the jack-lantern to a North American native vegetable, the pumpkin.

Friendly Ghoul. Photo Credit Tania Stewart

Such fun! Photo Credit Tania Stewart

Halloween Party Games in the Nicola Valley

At for parties, many games are played, including “snap-apple,” a game in which an apple on a string is tied to a doorframe or tree and players attempt to bite the hanging apple. In addition to bobbing for apples, parents often arrange treasure hunts, with candy or pastries as the “treasure.” Or try out “Halloween Snack Board” with Jennifer Schell. Children are also known to play tricks on their neighbors, such as “knock-a-dolly,” a prank in which children knock on the doors of their neighbors, but run away before the door is opened. Sounds very familiar. A little warning to all goblins, witches, ghouls, and monsters. You may never know when a hand or zombie may pop out of a dark corner or behind a tree.

Halloween is truly for the young! Photo credit Tania Stewart

The pumpkin carving competition has been won! Photo credit Tania Stewart

Halloween Safety

Firstly, remain safe. Pair up with friends, and younger children with parents or guardians. Secondly, stick to one side of the street, not running across the street to other houses. Thirdly, carry a flashlight or go out before it gets dark. Fourth, try to stick to areas you are familiar with. Wear appropriate clothing, importantly let your parents check your candy haul. Just get out and “Trick-or-Treat.” when enjoying Halloween in Merritt BC Canada.

In Conclusion

Moreover, just enjoy Halloween Night in Merritt BC or wherever you live. A little warning to all goblins, witches, ghouls, and monsters. It is the one night we can all dress up and be whatever we want with a lot of imagination and creation. I may just dress up as a spider this year. Boo!

Halloween in Merritt BC Canada

Nicola Valley Trick-or-Treating

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by Tania Stewart

Children, Home Schooling, Cooking Recipes, Stay at Home Mom, Holidays, Merritt

Halloween Snack Board

A tasty way to enjoy Halloween Treats!

You are going to feel like the ghostess with the mostest when you try this Halloween Snack Board.

This Halloween snack board is just the thing you need to try. Snack boards are so multi-purpose. I do them for lunches and I do them for birthdays. This board was created last year when Covid hit and we were all in lock down. It was such a somber season for for the entire Nicola Valley and the world. As a result I decided we would have our own little party.

Halloween Snack Board and Treats in Merritt BC

Halloween Puns Are So Corny. Photo credit: Jennifer Schell.

Halloween Snack Boards are Spooktacular Treats!

I had never made one for Halloween and wanted to boost the kids spirits. We assembled this easy enough and I am sure you could definitely simplify it by only picking a few elements to recreate. Furthermore, I wanted the kids to be quite hands on with this and have a great experience. Based on the snack board we created as a family for Valentine’s Day, I had some ideas on what I wanted to do.

Lets Give Them Pumpkin To Talk About! Photo credit: Jennifer Schell.

Spooky Season is upon us

Getting spooky like this is easy with a quick trip to Walmart. They always have such a great assortment of cookies and cupcakes seasonally. So putting something like this Halloween snack board can be as easy as 1,2,3! You can make your board a mixture of sweet or savory, like I chose to. Or you can choose to keep it completely on the sweet side with gummy candy, cookies, and candy bars. This Halloween snack board has some homemade items and some bought items. Don’t burn yourself out. Let your creative juices flow. Lastly and most importantly have fun and take a lot of photos of your creative eating masterpiece like we did. !

We’re Here For A Gourd Time! Photo credit: Jennifer Schell.

Mummy Dog How To!

Interested in making your own mummy hot dogs? They come together easily enough. And can make your own Halloween snack board totally stand out. All you need are your favorite hot dogs. Then some canned crescent roll pastry. You then simply place the crescent roll pastry on to your cutting board. Cut into strips and then wrap them around your hot dog. Place on a parchment lined cookie sheet and bake for 12-15 mins or so at 350 degrees. You can then use mustard to make eyes. Lastly theses were so fun for all of my kids to make. So easy and very tasty!

Let the Halloween Treats begin. Photo credit: Jennifer Schell.

You Will Win The Award Of “Mummy Of The Year” With These Guys! Photo credit: Jennifer Schell.

Halloween Looks So Beautiful and Yummy

Cavities Beware. Photo credit: Jennifer Schell

Hocus pocus its no joke, candy helps me to focus. Lets zero in on some of these spooky treats. For this Halloween snack board we first have an easy addition with red pepper hummus. Add in some pumpkin type lines and the top of a cucumber and you have an adorable pumpkin. Can you find the black olive spiders? They came together quick and easy. Just slice open 1 black olive lay it flat and with the opposite side make the legs. The peeled oranges and if you take a closer look you will also spy pumpkin deviled eggs. We used some turmeric and mustard to get a more orange hue. Crackers, gummy worms, tiny spooky cupcakes all round this tray out. Lastly make this your own and let your creativity flow.

Life Is Gourd Photo credit: Jennifer Schell.

Have an eek-tastic Halloween

“Fa-boo-lous!

You are going to feel like the ghostess with the mostest when you try this Halloween Snack Board. I promise you it comes together easy enough. There is so much inspiration online. As a busy mom of 8, I can say that we all had so much fun. I had little ones making spiders, snacking and laughing. All gathered around my table.. This was honestly one of our biggest highlights from lockdown, and I’m so thankful I get to be in a space that lets me share our families experiences Being able to share our stories with. Experience Nicola Valley fills my heart with gratitude. In conclusion from my family to you, we wish you a happy and safe fall season.

#Squadghouls. Photo credit: Jennifer Schell.

And finally, just a teaser, for the next big holiday after Thanksgiving here is a sneak peek into our Christmas themed snack board.

Halloween Snack Board in the Nicola Valley

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by Jennifer Schell

Health & Beauty, Lifestyle, Shopping, Downtown Merritt, Artists-Galleries-Art, Attractions, Canada, Merritt, Nicola Valley

Summer Art Shows in Merrtt, BC

Summer Art Shows in Merritt BC

Clothing and Body Art Shows Liven Up Gallery

Poster for Body Art Show

Body Embellishments and Wearable Art

Summer Art Shows in Merritt, BC, at the Nicola Valley Arts Gallery, brought out the creativity of different artists in our community. They were just another great example of how resilient artists are during Covid.

Body Art Shows in Merritt

For our Body Art Show in July, our tattoo, airbrush, and henna artists displayed their work with flair and personality. The hair stylists and makeup artists pushed the boundaries even further which just upped the level of fun in the show.

The Talent

During our fun opening reception several guests had hand henna art done by Prianne Dhesa, or temporary body art by Amy Maclaren. Photos of celebrities, famous people, and locals with tattoos and wild hairstyles livened up the gallery as well. And of course we had art by several of our Nicola Valley creatives.

We enjoyed music by guitarist Steve Atlas of the local group Stratosphere. Steve had an impressive and enjoyable two hour playlist and also chatted with the art show guests. (Photo of Steve Atlas below)

Brian Wheeler of Sin on Skin Tattoos Merritt. Photo credit: Jano Howarth

Thanks to local tattoo artists Brian Wheeler of Sin on Skin Tattoo, and Marco Merulla of Mom’s Tattoos. Beautiful, thoughtful, and fun work! I now have tats in progress from both of these tattoo masters…. (Photo of Marco Merulla below)

Art of Clothing, Creativity in Merritt BC

For our Art of Clothing Show that followed, well over a dozen local weavers, clothes designers, embroiderers, upcyclers and artists provided us with a creative display, from trench coats to hats to felted vests. We had lots of OOAK (one of a kind) pieces of clothing as well as art pieces depicting fashion.

Wearable art for the people of the Nicola Valley and for all the visitors who stopped in to see the show.

Fires in the Valley, Art anyway…

Art of Clothing Show. Photo credit: Jano Howarth

From the beginning of the summer art shows in Merritt BC, until the end of our Art of Clothing show, the Nicola Valley and surrounding areas were under threat from wild fires, out of control. Artists of our two shows, our workshop instructors and Gallery volunteers were on alert and many were evacuated from their homes for days and weeks.

But we had lots of visitors through the Gallery! Despite the danger of fire and heavy smoke people traveled to the Interior of BC, risking road closures and extended stays. People enjoyed the distraction of our local creativity and these unique shows.

Thank you to Artists and Creative Help

Thanks to our Art of Clothing artists! Several created work just for our show.

Thanks to our student volunteer, artist Olivia Nendick. She helped with our shows, or kids art events, and submitted pieces herself. (Photo of Olivia below)

And special thanks to our stellar summer worker, just graduated and an artist also, Karianne Kroeker. Kari tackled any job given to her, from mundane to creative.

Karianne Kroeker, Artist and Clothing Upcycler. Photo credit: Jano Howarth

Kari put together photo collages for the Body Art show, submitted pieces she had sewn, painted, and blinged for the Art of Clothing show. She came made up and dressed ever day for our creative space, chatted with guests and visitors, and participated in Kids Art classes.

What Creativity is Next?

The summer art shows in Merritt BC have come to a close, but there’s no stopping creativity. In hard times or good, creativity flows. We are happy at the NVCAC to inspire and be inspired. What’s the next inspired show?

Watch here for a blog post or read a bit about it and our other art shows this year on my site on creativity, learning, and journaling Meme Dreams.

Click to my blog here on Experience Nicola Valley about our move to a new location last fall, and art in Merritt, BC.

Thanks for stopping by! Remember, express yourself!

Jano Howarth

Nicola Valley Arts Centre Gallery Curator

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Facebook Gallery and Gift Shop

Art of Clothing, Cindilla Trent’s felted vest	Art of Clothing, Olivia Nendick	Body Art Show, Marco Merulla of Mom’s Tattoos
Barb Tomkinson, Maureen Lisle at Body Art Show	Music Steve Atlas, Body Art Show	Richard Lepinsky Music, Art of Clothing Show
All photos provided and credit goes to Jano Howarth

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by Jano Howarth

Lifestyle, Holidays, Accommodations, Adventures (Summer), Attractions, Businesses, Canada, Hiking-Backpacking, Merritt, Restaurants Cafes

Living in Merritt BC

Exploring Near Merritt in the Nicola Valley

Living life in the Shuswap Lake region of British Columbia Canada

Living in Merritt BC – For the better part of two years Experience Nicola Valley has been providing an amazing amount of information on what Merritt and the Nicola Valley has to offer. Do you want to know about camping in the area? We have many stories that will spike your interest in our local camping such as Harmon Lake in the Kane Valley or Paska Lake off of Hwy 97D.

With so much to do when living in Merritt BC I could not possibly cover it all in this article. However the good news is that you came to a key document that will provide you access to all the great things going on. After you have read this story you can zip over to Experience Nicola Valley for more information.

For booking information and other information on events, etc visit Experience Merritt.

Other Reasons for Living in Merritt BC

Besides all the great things to do in Merritt and the Nicola Valley you are only a hop, skip and jump away from many great tourist destinations. For example, the Okanagan is only one hour away or Kamloops is only 45 minutes away. Whereas other destinations such as the Shuswap (2 hours), the Cariboo (3 hours) or Vancouver(3 Hours) are within a comfortable reach.

The North Shuswap

This summer we spent our vacation in Magna Bay. This area is on the north side of the lake at the west end. We were very lucky and scored the best value in all of the Shuswap. We were able to rent a cabin for a very reasonable price.

Magna Bay Cabin - Living in Merritt BC Canada

Magna Bay Cottage- Photo credit: Magna Bay Vacations

Like wise, the inside of the cabin was very comfortable as well.

Cottage Living Room at Magna Bay Vacations

Cottage Living Room- Photo credit: Magna Bay Vacations

The place was very clean and the kitchen was reasonably equipped. However it was not the ritz. Some upgrades to the wall paper and some of the painted areas would help. However these minor imperfections did not stop us from enjoying our stay.

Things to Do in the Shuswap

We were visiting the Shuswap during the height of the forest fire season and encountered a great deal of smoke. However, this did not deter us as we made the best of the various breaks in the smoke and did the following things:

The Beach

The beach was just across the street which made it just a short walk of about 200 meters. Therefore we were able to enjoy the warm lake with swimming and using our floaties.

Ross Creek Community Park – Photo credit: Magna Bay Vacations

Hiking

There are many places to hike in the North Shuswap. Of the many choices we did three spots. The first one was at Tsutswecw Provincial Park. This park is home to the viewing for the famous Adams River Salmon Run.

Tsutswecw Provincial Park – Photo credit Tom Reynolds

Adams River – Photo credit Tom Reynolds

Our second choice was Scotch Creek Provincial Park where we walked the lake shore trail. The Beach at this park is a real treat.

Scotch Creek Provincial Park – Photo credit Tom Reynolds

Golfing

The North Shuswap is home to the Talking Rock Golf Course. The course is actually on the shores of Little Shuswap Lake at the Quaaout Lodge.

The setting is truly spectacular and the course provides a nice challenge.

Golf at Talking Rock. Photo credit – Tom Reynolds

Besides a regular golf course we took in the Mini Golf at Scotch Creek. While we had fun the course was in need of some serous repair.

Mini Golf at Scotch Creek – Photo credit – Tom Reynolds

Quality Cabin Time

We actually spent most of our eating at the cabin. Each of the five adults took a turn cooking a meal. Therefore if you did the cooking you didn’t have to clean up. This way the work load was spread out. It made for great meals that were not burdensome on one person.

However, we did go out twice. The first time to the Hub Pub in Scotch Creek. We were entertained by the Dueling Keyboards while eating delicious unique pub food.

The second time we actually didn’t go out for dinner but ordered pizza from Roosters Pizzeria in Anglemont BC. We expected the shop to be on the main road but it actually was high up the hillside in a residential subdivision. The drive was well worth it as the pizza was delicious and it went well with watching the BC Lion’s game.

Good Things Come to an End

Despite the smoke we had a great time and were sorry to be leaving. On the other hand we are thankful for living in Merritt BC Canada because we have quick access to many fun locations.

Living in Merritt BC

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Shuswap Lake BC

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by Tom Reynolds

Lifestyle, Children, Home Schooling, Stay at Home Mom, Camping, Merritt

Easy Smores Dip – Camping Treats for Children, Big and Small

Camping Treats for All Seasons

Smores is delicious snack for any time of the year in British Columbia

Easy Smores Dip – Summer treats when in Canada brings on so many amazing experiences. A huge part of summer in British Columbia is R&R, and a big part of that relaxing could be sitting around a campfire enjoying smores. Our beautiful province is blanketed in lush mountains and heavily forested areas, and not many things comes close to the joys of sitting around a campfire, enjoying family and friends under the stars, snacking on smores. It just might be the unofficial food of camping for kids.

Snacking Board Pretty – Betty Crocker Easy

Easy Smores Dip Helps With Fire Safety

However, smores is not just a campfire treat, no… you can have smores anywhere and anytime. And if you live anywhere where campfire bans are usually in effect, and for good reason, there are alternatives. This summer was one to remember for so many people who were displaced during evacuations. For this reason we even had the children’s Great Grampa stay with us during the Logan Lake fires.

Smores Deconstructed

Crackling Fires And Warm Summer Nights

So how do you enjoy this tasty seasonal delight? Pop it in the over of course! As a result you can now enjoy it for all 12 months of the year. Easy Smore dip satisfies that deep craving crackling fires and warm summer nights. Smores are decidedly a flavor of a Canadian summer that can make a place for so many happy memories. It’s so easy and a great dip to have kids help in the kitchen with. With a little supervision kids can easily make this easy smores dip quickly and safety of home. This dip goes from prep to table in 20 mins or less.

Still Sticky, But With The Comforts Of Home

Smores Can Be Quite Sticky If You Aren’t Prepared

Easy smores dip is almost a cheater meal. First off if you are new to the world of smores let me give you an idea of what these are to you. Smores are a gooey fire roasted marshmallow and chocolate square smooshed together between a cookie or graham wafer cracker. The method is usually quite simple. But can be a very exciting food item to make, especially if you have any child under the age of 4 around the campfire awaiting a delightfully sticky snack. To make this treat in theory so simple yet super tricky.

Easy smores dip ingredients and tips and tricks.

Directions

Lightly grease whatever sized pan of your choice. I used my tiny cast iron for a more camp like theme.

Coarse chop roughly 3 cups of chocolate. We ended used a giant frozen Toblerone we had saved since Christmas.
Then you can lay the marshmallows on top. Enough to cover the pan.

Easy Smores Dip Baking Instructions

Oven temp – 400
Place in oven for 5-7 mins. Watching the marshmallows closely
While that’s baking assembly is a breeze for this easy smores dip. Simply place graham crackers on a board or tray. In addition you can dip and dunk cookies, pretzels, or fresh fruit. Be cautious if you are dipping straight from the pan. It holds the heat and can burn. Parental supervision is a great idea.

In Conclusion

I would personally like to thank everyone involved in our summer and the fire efforts made here in our beloved province. Thank you to everyone doing your part and helping us all grow in being fire smart. Our hearts go out to those that have lost so much and to those brave men and women working tirelessly to help keep us all safe. Additionally making small tweaks as we practice fire safety doesn’t mean we can’t still enjoy experiences. Easy smores dip certainly makes #nocampfirenoproblem! Exploring the great outdoors and making plans is easy when you follow the Experience Nicola Valley Crew! As always if you recreate this recipe give us a tag. The family and I would love to see your creations and connect.

Willing Taste Testers

Easy Smores Dip – Camping Treats in BC Canada

Nicola Valley Travel and Tourism Guides

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“Experience Community Program” is a small and rural community authentic content marketing program. It is a product of the EH? Canada Marketing Group. Contact us today to bring this award winning community program to your region.

by Jennifer Schell

Lifestyle, Children, Adventures (Summer), Attractions, Campgrounds, Camping, Canoeing - Kayaking, Fishing, Fishing Lodge, Horseback Riding, Hiking-Backpacking, Merritt, Nicola Valley, Parks, Services, Swimming

Summer Activities in Merritt BC – Nicola Valley Outdoors

Summer Outdoor Activities in Merritt BC

Summer Adventures and Activities in The Nicola Valley

Outdoor summer activities in Merritt BC , offers a wide range of sunshine fun. 200 lakes, mountain biking trails and more makes the Nicola Valley a great choice for your next destination spot in the summer. Merritt’s slogan says it all “A Lake A Day For As Long As You Stay”. And we have rivers too! I guarantee when it comes to experiencing summer outdoor activities in the Nicola Valley, it will make you wish you planned for more time so to go kayaking, boating, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and viewing wildlife.

“I don’t need therapy, I just need my boat.” Unknown.

Summer Activities Merritt BC.

Gone Fishing! Photo by Tania Stewart.

Outdoor Activities Merritt BC.

Swimming fun! Picture courtesy Tania Stewart.

Outdoor Activities Merritt BC.

Nature’s poolside, were you can find me. Photo by Tania Stewart.

Summer Activities in Merritt BC Includes Lundbom Lake

Lundbom Lake is truly one of my favorite Summer Activities in Merritt BC. A beautiful lake which is located only 10 minutes from downtown Merritt BC. Moreover Lundbom Lake is a great location for camping, fishing and horseback riding. While the surrounding area also provides excellent mountain biking and ATV/dirt bike riding. Along with having sunny and shady sites. Open from Apr 26, 2019 – Oct 14, 2019. Outdoor

Julie Pollard “Is that the big one?” Photo Tania Stewart.

Enjoying the dock. Photo by Tania Stewart.

View of Lundbom Lake. Photo TS.

“I camp here until the end of October most years.” Unknown Tourist.

Kayaking on Lundbom. Photo by ehCanadaTravel.com.

Fall camping Eh! Photo courtesy ehCanadaTravel.com

“Lundbom Lake is very quiet and peaceful. Little noise pollution during all 3 of our visits. That is all we have to base it on. So it works for us.” Eh Canada Travel Website

Outdoor Summer & Fall Activities in the Nicola Valley BC. Canada.

Lake Trout. Photo Greg Girard.

Lundbom Lake Fall night. Photo by Greg Girard.

“THE FISHING ROCKS! Had to get that one out.” Greg Girard.

Outdoor Activities Merritt BC

Horse back riding has to be one of the best summer activities everyone can enjoy. A great opportunity to take in all of Mother Nature’s beauty. Trail riding is truly a Summer & Fall activity everyone can enjoy together in Merritt B.C. Offering a few choices, the Nicola Valley provides a day of adventure with nature in a saddle.

Horse Camping at Lundbom Lake. Photo by Tania Stewart.

A-P Guest Ranch. Photo by Tania Stewart.

Fall Fly Fishing in the Nicola Valley

Fly Fishing being a popular sport, Merritt BC has it made with 200 lakes. There is no wonder to why Corbett Lake Lodge is an anglers dream during the fall months. For all your supplies that you may need, surely drop by Ponderosa Sports located downtown Merritt.

Dragon Flies. Photo TS.

Summer Adventure on Nicola Valley’s Lakes

Fishing for bait. Picture by Tania Stewart.

Best Fishing Lakes Near Merritt

It should be noted that the Nicola Valley boast’s some of the best fishing in the World! There are over 200+ lakes in the region. Many are prime lake fishing destinations, including Garcia Lake, Marquart Lake, Hamilton Lake, Edna Lake, Mathew Lake, Morgan Lake, Roth Lake, Gwen Lake, Lundbom Lake and Lily Lake. Located just outside of Merritt, Marquart Lake is a small, clear lake which offers good rainbow trout fishing, camping and other outdoor activities nearby.

Were to Start Planning Your Summer Activities

One place to start is our travel website Experience Merritt. Once you have your bearings than check out some of the fishing experiences on this blog site. Last, but not least, ask a local or visit Ponderosa Sport’s downtown Merritt.

Kennedy Lake Hike. Photo Credit: Tom Reynolds

Mountain Biking Outdoor Activities Merritt BC

Outdoor adventure mountain biking on the many trails surrounding the Nicola Valley provide endless days of exploring the backcountry. No crowds. Lots of trails. Mouth-dropping scenery. Therefore to enjoy the trails in our backcountry all you need is a water bottle, the right gear and your ride. Nature and the adrenaline rush provides the rest. In reality the Nicola Valley provides the beautiful backcountry scenery, the wildlife sightings, the remote wilderness lakes and forested rolling hills. A nature enthusiasts dream space. Questions? You can drop a line with Merritt Mountain Biking Association.

Mountain Biking Fun. Photo by Jordan Pinto.

Scenic trails. Photo by Jordan Pinto.

Moreover Hiking/Backpacking

Truly enjoying the fall weather while hiking in the Nicola Valley is a must. Making sure to have your compass, water, picnic basket and a camera to capture your adventure. With the City of Merritt being located in a valley surrounded by mountains makes this an ideal destination place for avid backpackers and hikers. Generally having on the average sunny warm fall days makes it a pleasant day of hiking and adventure for the whole family. Reminder to always tell someone were you will be hiking if alone.

Harmon Lake. Photo courtesy of Experience Nicola Valley Blogger Tom Reynolds.

Scenic nature. Photo by Tania Stewart.

Summarizing Outdoor Activities in The Nicola Valley

Outdoor Activities in Merritt BC truly will have you smiling and knowing that you just had the best summer. While Merritt can boast over 200 lakes with desert-like weather truly makes this your next vacation spot. “ A Lake A Day as Long as You Stay” has been it’s local slogan for decades. Equally making this your next destination place for activities such as kayaking, boating, mountain biking, hiking, paragliding or just lazily strolling lake trails. Truly making this your next destination vacation spot!

Summer Fun in The Nicola Valley

Come and Experience the Adventure

Nicola Valley Travel and Tourism Guides

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“Experience Community Program” is a small and rural community authentic content marketing program. It is a product of the EH? Canada Marketing Group. Contact us today to bring this award winning community program to your region.

by Tania Stewart

Lifestyle, Children, Cowboy culture, Home Schooling, Adventures (Summer), Attractions, Merritt

A Day at Desert Hills Ranch

Desert Hills Ranch

What better way to get your summer bucket list started off right than spending a day with an awesome summer adventure.

Spending a day at Desert Hills Ranch with family.

A day at Desert Hills Ranch. Seriously hands down this is a hidden gem located in heart of Ashcroft B.C. A beautiful slow paced community that has so much charm to offer with old school western desert vibes. Ashcroft has a museum, well stocked grocery store, lovely tourist worthy location for community information. Lastly… you could also bring your swim suits and check out our community pool to cool off.

Goats at Desert Hills Ranch. Photo Credit: Jennifer Schell

Delish! Mexican Delights! Photo Credit: Jennifer Schell

History in Ashcroft BC

Of course my oldest son Logan, age 13, says his favorite thing to see is all of the tractors. He loves to see the historical and ancient farming machines. Secondly if you fancy yourself an avid gardener or aspire to be. The options for making that dream a reality is beyond belief. Think Garden of Eden meets tacos and you have a pretty good idea of what its like on the ranch.

Going Mexican Food in Ashcroft

Speaking of tacos… if you crave Mexican food and fare. This is the place to be for all sorts of chips, beans, hot sauces and salsas. I love stocking up on all the essentials for the best taco Tuesday meal items. In conclusion you do not want to forget to mark on your calendar for salsa weekend if you are keen to make your own.

Plants! Photo Credit: Jennifer Schell

Family fun in Ashcroft BC. Photo Credit: Jennifer Schell

Fun Times at Desert Hills Ranch

A day at Desert Hills Ranch is fun for everybody! They have lots to see and do. Children, I think, have an especially great time here. As a Mom I appreciate the measures that the ranch takes to allow people to view the animals but also how clean they keep it. Along with the areas to clean and sanitize hands often, and easy access to use the rest rooms. The barn is such a fun treat to explore every time and it is fun to see all the animal friends inside! Of course feeding the goats is so much fun!

Fruits and more

My daughter Amelia age 11 says her favorite thing to enjoy is the food. She loves to buy different fruits each week to try with the family and she loves the ice-cream. I feel zero regret buying ice-cream here for my family of 10! The price is right when it comes time for a cool treat. What a fun and affordable way to make the day that much more memorable!

Calf in Ashcroft

An Educational Opportunity

Machines, where our food comes from, biology and botany are just a few subjects you will encounter on the ranch. As a homeschooling mama this place has educational field trip written all over it. And that is another perfect reason to come check out the ranch. This hasn’t been my first time blogging about my favorite ranch. You can read that post HERE . There is so much to see and do here, it really is a very enriching experience. My son Zach who is 6 absolutely loves that he got to see his favorite animal when he visited the barn. A baby cow was such a adorable treat for him to see so close.

Lots Of Selection To Keep Any Green Thumb Happy

Flowers in Ashcroft BC Canada

This has to be one of my favorite parts of coming to the ranch. I love the huge selection of flowers, shrubs and trees they always have here. It makes adding curb appeal easy with the huge selection that they always have! I love that I can even dabble at pretending I am a homesteader with there great assortment of garden items. Cue the Little House On The Prairie theme song. I am so excited to try making a few different jams this season and give some canning a try. We love getting our tomatoes and strawberries here. And filling up our garden rows with lots of other goodies as well. Corn, peppers, cauliflower to name a few!

Impeccable Selection Of Many Garden Items

Delicious Produce Awaits At The Ranch

In Conclusion

A day at Desert Hills Ranch is never a day wasted. This place is really such a hidden gem. Surrounded by desert mountains. It has beautiful weeping willows to offer shade as you stroll around. They are always so kind and courteous. It truly offers an exceptional summer experience in the heart of British Columbia.

Therefore, if you are looking for more great all year around ideas for what to do in BCs interior. Please follow the Experience Nicola Valley Bloggers. And keep your eyes on the Blog for some more great Summer Bucket List ideas! Thanks for reading! Have a great summer and stay safe.

CONTACT INFO

Desert Hills Ranch

250 Elm Street, Ashcroft, BC

250.453.9876

deserthillsfarmmarket@gmail.com

www.deserthillsranch.com

Nicola Valley Travel and Tourism Guides

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“Experience Community Program” is a small and rural community authentic content marketing program. It is a product of the EH? Canada Marketing Group. Contact us today to bring this award winning community program to your region.

by Jennifer Schell

Lifestyle, Cooking Recipes, Stay at Home Mom, Merritt, Nicola Valley

Easy Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

Baking Recipes in the Nicola Valley

Everyone needs an easy fruit crisp recipe that they can go to again and again.

Baking recipe in the Nicola Valley : This easy strawberry rhubarb crisp is one I have used for years now. Fruit crisps are a great way to add a dessert to any meal that’s so rustic and tasty its sure to leave any tummy happy. We used what was on hand our garden rhubarb and paired it with some extra strawberries. Creating a stunning, sweet and tart after dinner treat.

Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp. Photo Credit by Jennifer Schell

Fun Facts About Rhubarb

Some fun facts about rhubarb. If the idea of eating it makes you wrinkle your nose these might be a way to entice you to eat more of it in the future. Rhubarb is a anti-inflammatory that can help build your bone strength. It can improve your liver health and is packed with fiber, calcium, vitamin C and potassium. A quick caution however you want to make sure you never consume the leaf of the plant just the stalk. The leaves are very poisonous, wash your hands after you handle. A great way to remove your rhubarb is to twist it with your hands. Never cut it. As that can confuse the plant and it will stop producing stalks for you to enjoy.

Rhubarb is part of this baking recipe in the Nicola Valley. Photo credit: planet_fox

Baking Recipe in the Nicola Valley : Rhubarb Strawberry Crisp

The crisp comes together in about 20 minutes or so. In my experience it has easy kitchen staples of flour, sugar and butter this egg free dish is easy like I said to mix up in a flash. Finally assemble your ingredients and lets get baking.

Ingredients

6 Cups of chopped and washed Rhubarb

2 Cups of chopped Strawberries

Two tsp of Flour

2 tsp of Brown Sugar

1 tsp of Cinnamon ( optional)

In a separate bowl assemble.

3/4 Cups of Flour

1 1/2 tsp of Baking Powder

1/8 tsp Salt

1/3 Cups of Butter

1 Cup of Brown Sugar

1 Cup of Quick Cooking Oats

Directions

Firstly combine fruit, flour and sugar ( and optional cinnamon ) in a greased 9X13 baking dish. Secondly in your second bowl combine your flour, baking powder, salt, cut in your butter until its nice and crumbly. Thirdly stir in your brown sugar and quick oats. Lastly sprinkle over your fruit. Bake at 350 for 30-40 minutes.

In addition

This easy strawberry rhubarb crisp is easy to swap out with so many other filling options. Of course the most popular would be apple crisp, then we have berry crisp. Nectarines or even a peach crisp. You could mix and match kind of like what we did mixing the strawberries with rhubarb. Peach and blueberry. Try a combo of apples, pecans and caramel drizzle. The ideas and options are endless with this treat once you have a fail safe crisp topping you can trust and know it will never fail.

Strawberry rhubarb crisp. Photo credit: Jennifer Schell

Rhubarb Strawberry Crisp Topping Suggestions

I am so curious to know if you would prefer to eat this dessert of easy strawberry rhubarb crisp as is or are you a fan of toppings? Of course I would certainly eat it plain. But I love the extra too sometimes. Not only milk but other toppings I would include could be ice cream, or heavy cream. A caramel drizzle or chopped nuts such as pecans, walnuts or maybe even peanuts. The possibilities are really endless.

In Conclusion

If you make this easy strawberry rhubarb crisp be sure to tag us on social media.

You can find us to tag using https://www.facebook.com/experiencenicolavalley/ here on Facebook and https://www.instagram.com/experiencenicolavalley/ here on Instagram.

The Experience Nicola Valley Team is real people, sharing real experiences, we tell stories about our home town. It is our mission to inspire, educate and share with you our adventures and experiences. And we would love to see yours also. So start with this baking recipe in the Nicola Valley.

Easy Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

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“Experience Community Program” is a small and rural community authentic content marketing program. It is a product of the EH? Canada Marketing Group. Contact us today to bring this award winning community program to your region.

by Jennifer Schell

Lifestyle, Environment, Gardening, Merritt

BUILDING A TERRACED GARDEN

TIPS FOR THE RESTORATION OF A GARDEN

PART 2 0F 2

In Part 1 of Building a Terraced Garden I had to leave you hanging as we ran out of blocks for our wall and couldn’t complete the project. We had Home Hardware scouring their network to see if they could find some. With no luck there we checked Home Depot, Lowes and Rona where we struck out in all cases. As a last resort we also looked on Market Place, Craig’s list and Kijiji.

Where for art thou bricks?

We were extremely upset because we had only a partial wall and no way of completing it. However, providence was on our side. One day my wife, Shirley, was out in the front yard when a friend of hers came by with her new neighbour. When Shirley mentioned our brick problem the new neighbour said her husband was taking down a brick wall and maybe we could use them. It turns out they were exactly the same as the ones we were using and therefore we could get started again.

Resuming Building a Terraced Garden

First Rows Photo Tom Reynolds

We got this far in Part 1 of Building a Terraced Garden. You will remember that we dug our trench, while making sure it was level, and finally added the gravel base. After that we then placed our first two rows of blocks and are ready for the next step.

Our garden will have a sprinkler system so we have to be sure that we have a system that will move excess water away so that the walls don’t get undermined. The first step is to lay the drain fabric up the side of the wall and with enough fabric on the other side so that you can wrap it back over the pipe after you have added the drain rock.

Pipe with drainage rock photo Tom Reynolds

The walls go up in building a terraced garden

Once the drainage is dealt with, the next step is to continue with adding the next rows of blocks. The tricky part of our construction was the number of corners we had. To handle this you need a cement cutting saw for doing the rough cuts (a Quick Cut Saw). Also another for doing the finer details. You can rent the quick cut saw. Fortunately our contractor, Ted, had the other saw.

Quick Cut Saw photo Tom Reynolds

The Blocks are finished

Shirley and I carried almost two hundred blocks for this phase which brought the restoring of the terraced garden to an end. The next task was to fill the terraces with great top soil. We got ours from High Mountain Ventures.

Finished Wall photo Tom Reynolds

The Final Phase of Building a Terraced Garden

In order to finish our project we had to take the plants from the ICU and replant them in our restored garden. Once this was done we could place our inground sprinkler system so all the plants would receive a drink.

Finished Project photo Tom Reynolds

Just as humans who come out of the hospital’s ICU don’t look great, neither did our plants. H0wever with the nutritious soil and watering we expect the garden to show well soon.

What did we learn about building a terraced garden

Planning is important. We had a vision but did not think it through because we only started with about 150 blocks and if we planned properly and recognize that going from 5 tiers to 2 would require higher walls and therefore more bricks we may have been able to avoid our dilemma of running out of blocks.

We didn’t notice until the project was complete that we would have to move one of the sprinklers because the new walls were too high and blocked the water stream.

Our project turned out well because we used a great contractor, Ted Cederland, for the important parts of the job.

BUILDING A TERRACED GARDEN

TIPS FOR THE RESTORATION OF A GARDEN

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“Experience Community Program” is a small and rural community authentic content marketing program. It is a product of the EH? Canada Marketing Group. Contact us today to bring this award winning community program to your region.

by Tom Reynolds