Living

LOOKING back over 2011, we're reminded yet again, that wine is first and foremost about people: those who make it (and to a much lesser extent - those of us who drink it). It's also very much about place, of course. At least it should be.

CHRISTMAS is my favourite time of the year. I'm so blessed to share it with loved ones, including my fur-covered ones.

New Years Eve Dinner and Dance New York Time: The Men in Black trio will perform jazz/dance music to ring in the New Year Saturday, Dec. 31, 5-10 p.m. at West Vancouver Seniors' Activity Centre, 695 21st St. A cash bar will be in effect.

LOOKING for the perfect topping for the Brie at your Boxing Day bash? You'll find it - provided your guests are meat-eaters - in an unassuming little tub at gourmet food stores: Skillet Bacon Spread.

SOME people have long, long Christmas lists to work through and by the time they get to the bottom few names, Santa's already cleared for takeoff.

Red Sock Project: Homewares retailer Nood has kicked off its annual Red Sock Project at all its store locations, including Marine Dr., North Vancouver.

HOLIDAY party season is in full swing and that means dressing up and getting made up a lot more than usual. But it's important to treat your skin right, no matter how exhausted you might be after a long evening of rum and eggnogs.

SANTA may sport the same old hairstyle every Christmas, but for the rest of us there are a few more options.

NAMES in this story have been deleted to protect the seasonally challenged. So don't bother sending copies of It's A Wonderful Life in the hopes of lighting that advent candle somewhere deep within my Grinchy soul.

RUMOURS tell of people who believe there is such a thing as "too much" chocolate. This time of year is not kind to them.