Do you have a "goto" person in your life? You know, that ever-reliable person who always seems to offer the perfect solution to your latest crisis – no matter how big or small – and has the perpetual magic touch whenever something goes awry? The friend who is a gourmet cook and an expert baker, whose outdoor space looks like it's been designed by a professional landscaper and whose interior space looks like it's been poached from a photo spread in one of those glossy decor mags? The person who seems to have all the right answers before you've even asked the question, the one you call when you're feeling down and who says all the right things to make you feel better in one short phone call? The friend who will unabashedly give a roll of the eyes and tell you to get over yourself?
Well, that's my pal Colin, pictured with me here. When I need sound advice, a smart solution or a good laugh, he's definitely the go-to pal in my life. I realize not everyone is lucky enough to have a friend like Colin (and I'm not sharing!).
But take heart: this issue of Canadian Living is full of smart fixes for a variety of everyday challenges you're apt to come up against. Got a back problem, or feeling over-stressed? Take a page from the life of Heather Roper, who turned to the ancient Chinese art of Taoist tai chi to heal herself after an accident. Facing a decor challenge and limited funds? Take advice from Glen Peloso, one of Canadian TV's favourite designers, who proves you can refresh a living room and dining room without breaking the bank ("Clean and Simple Style. And if you're like most Canadians right now, you're probably watching your pennies when buying groceries. Look no further than "Budget Dinners" to see how our Test Kitchen manages to feed a family of four (with healthy, delicious meals) for under $150 per week – with enough for leftovers. Feel free to pass along these smart fixes to your friends and neighbours.
Before you know it, you'll be their go-to friend. I have to say I was chuffed when my pal, Colin, actually came to me a few months ago for advice on what to do with an antique table that needed some work. At last, I had an opportunity to help him out. You'll see the results on page 147 in this issue.
Until next time.
– Susan Antonacci
