Blog | The Wellings

October 13, 2023May 3, 2024

Moving Through Grief: Conversations with Nat & Kat

In the latest episode of “The Good Life with Nat & Kat,” the duo dives deep into the topic of grief, a universally felt emotion yet often misunderstood. They explore the varied forms grief can take, from job losses and the end of relationships to more subtle shifts in life such as moving out of one’s home. Notably, they touch upon society’s often skewed perspectives on grief, especially the pervasive notion in North America that people should always present as “happy.”

Delving into personal experiences, they discuss the idea that the past generations, including their own parents, rarely displayed vulnerability, potentially leading to a culture of denial. They advocate for acknowledging grief as it can lead to adverse mental and physical health consequences if ignored. Nat shares an intimate story about her mother’s transition to a new living situation, shedding light on the lesser-recognized areas of our lives where grief can sneak in.

Nat & Kat emphasizes the importance of acceptance and allowing oneself the grace to navigate the ups and downs that come with change. They end on a hopeful note, illustrating that with time, support, and understanding, one can move through grief and find joy once again.

Tune in to hear their insightful conversations and heartwarming anecdotes, reminding us all that every journey of grief is unique, but understanding and support can pave the way to healing.

in Healthy Aging, Video Blogs Posted by The Good Life With Kat & Nat

October 6, 2023May 3, 2024

Moving Through Grief

Grief has many facets, and it shows up in our lives in various circumstances, many of them unexpected. Grief is a feeling that we all experience at some point in a life well lived. We may encounter it due to job loss, loss of a loved one, a treasured pet or loss of property, to cite a few examples. While there are tools professionals can offer us, each person’s grief journey is unique. It’s a bit like happiness because learning to grieve is as important as learning to be happy. They’re different sides of the same coin and both are powerful components of the human experience.

“Grieving doesn’t make you imperfect, it makes you human.” – Sarah Dessen

In North American society we aren’t encouraged to grieve for long; rather we are prompted to pause briefly and get on with life. Other societies create space for people to grieve and to help them heal in community. There’s no one way to be in this mystery of grief and sometimes we need professionals to help us navigate. Say you lost a job you loved. That situation requires grieving because you loved your job and it’s gone. There’s no shame in mourning the loss and feeling all the feelings that come with it. When we pretend that we’re just fine, we’re ignoring an opportunity to heal something and that pain, if not acknowledged properly, will stick around longer than it would if it was addressed.

“Grief is love not wanting to let go” – Earl A. Grollman

When we lose someone close to us, the void is so painful that we ask ourselves how we can go on living without them? Initially it feels as though the world stops and in a way your world does stop, so that you can acknowledge your true feelings and accept the loss. It’s unrealistic to think that we move on from grief, rather we get used to new circumstances. I love how American singer songwriter Andy Grammer honours his late mother. When he goes out for breakfast and sees women his Mum’s age in the restaurant, he offers to pay their bill and shares with them how it’s his way of keeping his Mum’s generous spirit alive. Isn’t that the most beautiful way to live with grief? We know that kindness is a powerful force that not only enriches the recipient of our acts of kindness, but we benefit as does anyone who witnesses it or anyone we tell about it. Honouring our loved ones to keep their spirit alive will look different for each of us. Think of the person you want to honour, think of their best qualities, and find some way to share those qualities with others through you.

The one thing we must acknowledge about grief is that it’s real, whatever we’re feeling is real and feelings don’t have an expiry date. Sometimes we hold on to grief because we’re afraid of who we will be without it or we’re afraid of experiencing more loss. But once we begin to slowly move back into life, we can take the spirit of our loved ones with us and keep them close by honouring them in our own special way.

“Be the things you loved most about the people who are gone” – Unknown

Let’s talk about the loss of freedom and independence as something we all grieve for. Even school children grieve at the end of summer before they get into the excitement of a new adventure once they get back to school. Similarly, as our children grow up and move out on their own, we call it “empty nest” but it’s really grief we’re feeling and it’s very real. We grieve when we give up certain things like having a big home to move into a lifestyle without as many responsibilities and with more time to enjoy ourselves. On the surface, especially to those in the foundation building years of life, this can look like living the dream but in truth we are surrendering a part of ourselves that we felt defined us as guardians of the family home, and we may not know who we are without that identity. While it’s important to acknowledge that this transition is challenging and that what we’re feeling is legitimate and perfectly normal, it’s also important to carefully merge into a new lane on this amazing road trip of life.

“What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes part of us.” – Helen Keller

What we can’t see because fear is blocking our view is that we are granting ourselves an opportunity for a new identity. We have more bandwidth in our mind for creative pursuits instead of worrying about eaves troughs and snow removal bills. I’m joking a little but there is so much potential to embrace in the third act of our lives. If our choice is to move into a community like Wellings, we’ll have a ready-made social life where we can make new friends, we’ll have the freedom to do what we want when we want. Because we’re not focused on all the chores we had as a homeowner, we can enjoy trying new hobbies and experiences for the fun of it. We’re free to create a new identity for ourselves, one that incorporates all our previous experiences with a hefty dose of courage because we’re embracing the unknown. It’s there, on the other side of fear, that our new freedom waits for us.

Here are a few parting thoughts to consider as we move through grief:

Have compassion for yourself. Whatever you’re feeling is real, so be gentle.
Get comfortable being uncomfortable. Nobody can accurately predict the future and as much as we would love to control it, we can’t. Accepting discomfort creates space for us to make mistakes and learn as we go. See tip #1.
Stay connected with people you love and who are willing to be good listeners. Sharing what’s on your heart with someone you trust helps with healing.
Move your beautiful body. We know that sitting for too long can be detrimental to our health, especially when we’re feeling down. Take a walk preferably in nature to elevate your spirits.
Laughter, like kindness, is good medicine. Watch funny movies or television shows that make you feel good, read a lighthearted book, or spend time with someone who loves to laugh.

This Wellings blog by Kathie Donovan was exclusively written for Wellings Communities and appeared first on MyWellings.com.

in Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan

September 29, 2023May 3, 2024

Boosting Social Wellness through Casual Conversations

Welcome to ‘The Good Life with Nat & Kat’! Today, we’re exploring the transformative power of talking to strangers and its impact on our social fitness.

Nat & Kat, both self-confessed introverts, discuss their journeys and share insights on breaking the ice, building resilience, and fostering meaningful connections. From small gestures to heartfelt compliments, they reveal how small talk can open doors to fulfilling interactions and friendships.

They highlight the essence of a vibrant social life and its role in longevity, concluding with golden nuggets on maintaining a harmonious social environment.

Join us in this enriching conversation, share your thoughts, and let’s build a connected, supportive community together!

Click here to watch the video.

in Healthy Aging, Video Blogs Posted by The Good Life With Kat & Nat

September 23, 2023September 23, 2023

Maximize Your Food Budget with Chef Robert in the World of Wellings

Welcome to another exciting episode in the World of Wellings! Today, we have the talented Chef Robert on board to share some ingenious kitchen hacks that will not only help you stretch your food budget but also tantalize your taste buds.

From One Pre-Roasted Chicken to Four Scrumptious Meals

Ever wondered how to make the most out of a single pre-roasted chicken? Chef Robert unveils the magic for us. With his culinary expertise, he demonstrates how to transform this humble ingredient into four mouth-watering dishes:

1. Refreshing Salad: Begin your culinary journey with a light and refreshing salad. Using tender chicken pieces tossed with fresh greens and a zesty dressing, this dish is perfect for a quick lunch or a starter.

2. Hearty Broccoli Soup: Dive into the comforting embrace of a creamy broccoli soup, enriched with succulent chicken bits. This soup is not only nutritious but also a delightful treat for the soul.

3. Flavorful Chicken Quesadillas: Spice things up with some scrumptious chicken quesadillas. Stuffed with juicy chicken, melted cheese, and a medley of spices, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

4. Rich Chicken Stock: Last but not least, Chef Robert teaches us the art of preparing a rich and aromatic chicken stock. This versatile broth can be the base for numerous dishes, adding depth and flavour to your meals.

Stretch Your Budget, Not Your Taste

Managing a food budget can be challenging. However, with Chef Robert’s clever tricks, you can enjoy gourmet meals without burning a hole in your pocket. It’s all about being resourceful and creative in the kitchen.

Don’t Miss Out!

Join us in the World of Wellings and embark on this gastronomic adventure. Learn, cook, and savour these delectable dishes with us. Remember, good food doesn’t always have to be expensive. With the right techniques and a dash of love, you can create culinary masterpieces in the comfort of your home. Click here to watch the video.

Stay tuned for more exciting episodes and happy cooking!

in Food and Recipes, Video Blogs Posted by Chef Robert Mills

September 15, 2023September 15, 2023

When You Retire, Financial Literacy Expands

Retiring from the workforce as you know it requires a great deal of planning and a disciplined approach to saving, decades before you retire completely.

Just as your needs change over time, wealth planning now changes. It may include shifting into lower-risk portfolios while ensuring the best possible return on your investments.

Articulating your goals clearly will help define where your financial advisor invests or places your funds to work for you.

A good financial planner will ask relevant questions and provide insight into which information sources are best to further your knowledge and understanding.

This September, Marci Perreault, a certified financial planner and partner at KenMar Financial Services, offers some areas to consider as you manage your retirement savings for many years to come.

When You Retire, Financial Literacy Expands

By: Marci Perreault

Wealth planning doesn’t retire when you do – it just changes. Now, financial life is largely about making the most of the wealth you’ve accumulated. You’ll be learning about new rules, products, and strategies that involve a broad range of financial considerations.

Fortunately, your expanding financial literacy doesn’t have to happen all at once. You can acquire new knowledge gradually as needs arise.

From Accumulation to Decumulation

When you have retirement savings in your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) or Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF), Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA), and non-registered account, how do you know which source to tap first for income? You’ll learn that there’s no formula to follow. It depends on each retiree’s particular tax situation, government benefits strategy, and estate planning goals. We’ll work with you to develop a plan that suits your circumstances. This may be a balancing act in which you draw varying amounts from multiple sources.

Along the way, you’ll also learn about splitting pension income, making RRIF withdrawals strategically, and ensuring you don’t outlive your savings.

Planning Your Estate

Although estate planning typically begins in your working years, new factors often arise during retirement.

Controlling an Inheritance: If you have reason to control how an heir receives their inheritance, you’ll want to know about trusts. Situations include being in a second marriage and wanting to leave an inheritance to children from your first marriage, having minor beneficiaries, and preferring that an heir receives funds over time instead of in a lump sum.
Covering Tax: You’ll learn about ways to minimize the tax on your estate’s assets, such as gifting certain assets now to limit their appreciation or transferring assets to your spouse upon your passing. Also, you’ll develop a plan to cover the tax liability that is ultimately payable by your estate.
Using Life Insurance: One way to offset the tax on estate assets is through a permanent life insurance policy. Life insurance can also help equalize inheritances—for example, when one child takes over the family business and the other child receives insurance proceeds. With life insurance, the financial need is taken care of as soon as you pay the first premium, and proceeds are received tax-free, but the cost of the premiums must be weighed against other funding solutions.

Repurposing Your TFSA

In retirement, your TFSA could become a tax-free environment for any funds from your minimum required RRIF withdrawals that you don’t require as retirement income. Also, you can take advantage of the tax-free nature of TFSA withdrawals in several ways, such as minimizing any clawback of Old Age Security (OAS) benefits or preventing your income level from being pushed into the next tax bracket. You’ll also find out about different ways TFSA assets can be used in estate planning, either to help manage taxes on your estate’s assets or to leave as an inheritance.

Investment Changes

When you’ve been investing for decades, there’s not a lot that’s left to learn. However, you may be introduced to several products and strategies designed for the retirement years. For example, you can choose new non-registered investment funds that provide tax-efficient monthly income. To safeguard against withdrawing funds when the market is down, some retirees draw their income from a cash reserve that they replenish periodically.

We’re Here to Help You

Wealth planning in this new chapter of your life involves many decisions you haven’t faced before. However, with our help, you’ll find that your financial life during retirement goes smoothly.

Stay informed. We’ll educate you on each new topic so you feel comfortable, not intimidated.

Explore options. When a wealth planning matter arises, we’ll outline the available options. For example, say that a retiree wants to give financial support to grandchildren of varying ages. The first choice is whether to give funds now, leave an inheritance, or both. If it’s now, will the funds be for education costs, a down payment on a home, or any future use? If it’s an inheritance, will grandchildren be named in the will or designated as beneficiaries of a life insurance policy or a registered plan?

Be well-advised. If a decision is simply based on personal preference, we’ll let you know. When a solution depends on your unique financial situation and goals, you can trust us to recommend the product or strategy that best meets your needs.

in Financial Freedom Posted by Marci Perreault

September 8, 2023May 3, 2024

How Talking to Strangers Can Benefit your Social Fitness

How do you feel about small talk or talking to strangers? Are you good at it or do you dread it? Some people are gifted this way and find it easy to engage with someone sitting beside them on a plane or waiting in line for coffee. You can feel that they’re relaxed, and it puts whoever they’re speaking with at ease. We’re not all built this way and for anyone who feels socially awkward or shy, talking with strangers can be a challenge. The great news is that when we’re prepared, small talk is easy and sometimes it magically transforms strangers into friends.

“Friendship begins with small talk; then grows into a long and deep conversation, the next thing you know you care so much.”
-Unknown

I used to feel overwhelmed when I thought about all the strangers I was going to encounter at networking events. I had all the same feelings you likely have if you feel socially awkward like I do. What am I going to say? How do I start a conversation with someone I don’t know anything about? Are these people going to judge me?

Now I know that yes people are going to judge me because that’s how we’re wired as human beings. Until we get to know someone and discover what we have in common, our brain tells us to be afraid. What I have found though with years of networking behind me is that we have more in common than we think we do. It’s a matter of engaging and we do this by asking questions of others and sharing information about ourselves. I’ll have some tips that I’ve found useful on this topic for you a little later.

There’s science behind why it’s beneficial for us to talk with strangers and engage in small talk but without looking to science we can say that when a stranger wants to chat with us, it’s likely because they’re curious, we look interesting or both. Just a few questions and answers shared, and we know whether this is a relationship for the moment or one that could evolve into a friendship. Either way we’ll learn something, right?

“Be brave enough to start a conversation that matters.”
-Margaret Wheatley, Organizational Consultant

Research on small talk shows that we underestimate how much we’ll enjoy conversations with strangers and how much those conversations can nurture a feeling of connectedness with other people, which is key for thriving, especially as we age. A study conducted at the University of Michigan shows that engaging in small talk can make us feel smarter, happier, and healthier. A surprising result was that casual conversation contributes to a lower risk of heart attack. It stands to reason because we’re connecting with other people, which inherently has a lot of benefit, at any age. It bears repeating that as human beings we are made for socialization and not isolation, so it’s important that we push ourselves beyond what’s comfortable or familiar, so that we can expand our knowledge base, social circle, and our own courage.

You’re only one conversation away from learning something new whether it’s about a family member, an acquaintance, or a community member. I remember recently sitting in a small group of Wellings members, after my presentation at Wellings of Picton. The woman beside me and I struck up a conversation; I learned that she had experienced a car accident a few years ago that impacted her life and her move to Wellings gave her new friends and a community that cared. She was excited about the music we were about to listen to and said that she was looking forward to kicking up her heels, even if only figuratively. A new Wellings member joined the group and introduced herself as Flo, spelling her name with a wide smile; she started asking questions to get to know the people in the group. She joked that her grandson loved Wellings and said that this type of community would be great for young people too. I think he’s on to something. Anytime we can create community and connection we are alleviating some of the stress we all feel in our daily lives, which is magnified when we’re isolated and lessened when we’re in community.

“Smile at strangers and you just might change a life.”
– Steve Maraboli, Behavioral Scientist

It’s important for us to initiate connections with our family, our peers, friends, and our community members, some of whom we may not know yet. While it may feel uncomfortable initially, with practice we become confident and reaching out becomes easier.

Here are a few tips I’ve found helpful when it comes to being prepared for conversation.

I like to open conversation with a compliment whenever possible. It creates an immediate connection; make sure it’s sincere.
Look for commonalities in whatever situation you’re meeting this person. Make sure you’re curious and have a genuine interest in them.
Have a few topics of conversation in your pocket, so you can talk easily. In Canada weather is a great topic to open with and it seems everyone has an opinion. I like to keep it light and focus on what’s good.
Talk about why you’re there, whether it’s a party, a meeting, or some other social event.
Ask open ended questions rather than questions requiring a yes or no answer.
Ask them to tell you a little bit about themselves.
Genuinely listen to their answers and demonstrate it by using verbal and non-verbal feedback like nodding your head and following up with another question.
Wrap up graciously by saying something like “it was a pleasure to meet you” or great chatting with you” and then add that you have somewhere to be or that you’re going to chat with someone else.

I think it’s important to be positive and enthusiastic when we’re getting to know someone. Small talk is the first step in figuring out whether we’re aligned with a new person; it’s also a great tool to deepen a relationship with family or community members without things getting sticky. We don’t have to tell our life story right out of the gate. While we all have an interesting story to share, we can save that for a time when we feel it’s appropriate to go a little deeper with someone, once we get to know them.

What’s really worked for me is practice. The more I’m prepared before I initiate conversation, the more relaxed I feel, and the more I enjoy these encounters. There are so many things we can learn, so many beautiful people we can get to know and so many wonderful stories and shared experiences to uncover when we take a chance and open a conversation, simply by asking “how are you doing?”

This Wellings blog by Kathie Donovan was exclusively written for Wellings Communities and appeared first on MyWellings.com.

in Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan

September 1, 2023May 3, 2024

Unlocking the Epic Life: Active Living vs. Other Options for the 55+ Community

As we gracefully age, the concept of ‘home’ evolves. It’s no longer just a place to rest; it becomes a sanctuary of health, wellness, and empowerment. At Wellings, we understand that our 55+ community desires more than just a roof over their heads. They aspire for an epic life — full of opportunities, diverse activities, and minimal responsibilities. But how does this differ from other arrangements like long-term care or retirement living with respect? Let’s dive in.

What is the Active Living Concept?

Peter Attia, MD, and longevity expert says, “Exercise can improve insulin sensitivity, boost metabolism, cardiovascular health, enhance cognitive function, and contribute to overall well-being.”

You are independent, and you want to stay that way. You want to avoid living in retirement, where health care becomes a daily routine. Well, there is an alternative. Active living prioritizes physical activity as part of your daily routine, honoring your goal to keep your mobility and health for as long as possible. The goal is to get people moving more often. Exercise, nutrition, sleep, and mental health are keys to living a well-rounded and healthy lifestyle as we age, according to Dr. Attia. Listening to the goals of our members ( seniors) over 55 years of age has inspired us to create an environment that encourages an active way of life regardless of the mobility levels within the community. As a result, we see fitness levels improve, more social interaction, and better eating habits. Keeping active starts with a goal for your future activity needs. If you want to be able to walk up a hill, carry a grandchild, get in and out of a car, or take a trip somewhere, you need to train for it, and there is always time to start.

What is an Example of Active Living?

Imagine starting your day with a brisk walk. You feel your heartbeat, the fresh air on your face. You feel alive. 30 minutes of fast activity is all you need to improve your cardiovascular health and mood daily. You may only sometimes recognize active living as deliberate, but even parking at the furthest end of the parking lot and walking to the front door naturally increases your activity level. At Wellings, we always look for ways our members can get more active without considering additional exercise. Gardening, yoga, stretching, dancing, lawn bowling, and even billiards keep your blood flowing, improve your balance and exercise the mind. Get active and live life the way you want to.

What is the Definition of Healthy Active Living?

Healthy active living is a lifestyle choice that combines regular physical activity, a balanced nutritious diet, sufficient sleep, stress management, and maintaining social connections outside your Family. It’s a holistic approach to life that has the potential to significantly improve quality of life, especially as we age and for our 55+ community.

What are the ten benefits of an Active Lifestyle?

Peter Attia, MD and author of Outlive, The Science and Art of Longevity, often emphasizes the numerous benefits of an active lifestyle. In his world, prevention is the focus rather than waiting until you need to see a Dr. to treat a disease or ailment. If you have healthy lifestyle goals for aging, an active, healthy lifestyle must be a priority. Most of us want to live a long, healthy life, but to do this, we need to start paying attention to our habits and lifestyle. Does it support our long-term goals, and if not, what can we change now to give us the best chance for a long, healthy way of life? This means that on top of regular exercise, optimizing your good food intake, breathing in the fresh air, de-stressing life, and working hard to ensure your muscles stay strong become a priority. He emphasizes there is always time to start.

Some benefits include:

1. Improved Physical Health: Reduces the risk of chronic diseases and better management of blood sugars.

2. Enhances Mental Health: Boosts mood and alleviates some symptoms of depression.

3. Promotes Social Interaction: Decreases sense of isolation, betters mood, and provides more opportunities to meet and connect with people.

4. Boosts Immunity: Exercise helps improve bodily functions, including the immune system.

5. Enhances Mobility: It keeps your body flexible, maintains balance, reduces the effects of arthritis, and better equips us to handle challenging terrain.

6. Increases Longevity: A healthy lifestyle is directly proportional to a longer life expectancy.

7. Improves Sleep: Physical activities help you reduce stress, fall asleep faster, and make your sleep more profound as long as you raise your heartbeats!

8. Sharpens the Mind: Aids in keeping your cognitive function sharper as exercise and nutrition take center stage,

9. Fosters Independence: Physical well-being allows you to be more self-reliant and independent, especially as we age.

10. Elevates Quality of Life: You’re likely to enjoy life more when you’re physically active and socially engaged.

Active Living vs. Independent Living vs. Long-term Care

Active Living (Wellings): A community inspired by energetic and vibrant 55-plus adults. Usually, health care is not offered, and activities may be community-led. Amenities vary by location but typically include a full kitchen and in-suite laundry.

Independent and Assisted Living: Traditional retirement living offers various care levels, including assisted and memory care. It addresses many levels of care that may require qualified healthcare professionals in its administration. It often comes with three daily meals, housekeeping, and organized activities.

Long-term Care: For those requiring advanced medical care and daily assistance beyond what a traditional retirement home can provide.

How Do You Know What You Need?

If you aren’t sure what the differences are in the various living options for seniors, it is essential to do some research. Get familiar with the industry jargon such as independent vs. assisted living, 55 plus living, memory care, and long-term care. Your doctor and family can help you determine what care you may require in the coming years. Some people are on the cusp of needing some daily care and prefer to choose 55 plus living and accessing their local care association to visit the residence as required, such as a blood pressure check once a month or diabetic foot care. These independent seniors can cook for themselves, may still drive, and can carry on mostly without supervision. Others realize that they don’t want to cook and need minimal care now but don’t want to entertain the idea of moving again shortly and may choose a traditional retirement home. Remember that selecting a conventional retirement home when you don’t truly need care usually results in aging more quickly and paying for health care services you won’t use. Fifty-five plus communities offer activities and meals with a more vibrant and active feel. We see various mobility and mental acuity levels, but people connect with busy people. These communities, such as Wellings, are perfect for transitioning between your large family home and a traditional retirement home with care.

Any good General Manager or community leasing representative should be able to outline the differences and ask the right questions to determine the best fit for you regardless of what community you choose.

You don’t need external care daily?

Active Living at Wellings may be the perfect fit if you don’t require daily medical assistance.

Choosing the right community is crucial for your well-being, and we encourage you to research. Make a list of your goals for yourself as you age. Is the new home you are considering going to get you closer to your goals? If you want to be more social or less isolated, look at the social programs offered. If you’re going to stay active, look for fitness programs, walking trails, or nearby paths.

Visit your top 3 choices. Is everything scheduled, or are you free to choose when and where you eat, when you come and go, and how many visitors you can have? We recommend you watch how the staff interacts, test the food, participate in the activities, and even do a trial stay. You can visit as often as needed to make yourself more comfortable with your final choice. At Wellings, we provide you with the best setting to live an active and fruitful life, where every day is an adventure, an opportunity for continued growth, renewal, and re-energizing. Pick up hobbies you loved and never had time for, and connect with people who love living in retirement and are happy to share their life stories when asked. Fifty-five-plus communities are usually less expensive than traditional retirement homes and are a good choice for adults 55-plus who don’t need care but want to live maintenance-free and be more social.

in Carefreedom Living®, Healthy Aging Posted by Natalie Tommy, VP Marketing, Nautical Lands Group of Companies & Wellings

August 25, 2023August 25, 2023

Chef Robert’s Walnut Zucchini Loaf – A Taste of Wellings

Hello food enthusiasts!

If you’ve been searching for the perfect blend of wholesome and delicious, then look no further! This week, Chef Robert from The World of Wellings introduces us to a delightful Walnut Zucchini Loaf.

When we think of zucchini, we often picture it in salads, pasta, or as a grilled side dish. But in this recipe, zucchini is the star, transforming into a sweet sensation. Infused with the nutty crunch of walnuts and the balanced sweetness of sugar, this loaf is moist and aromatic. And for those seeking a healthier twist, Chef Robert retains the zucchini’s skin, enriching the loaf with added fibre.

If this has gotten your mouth watering, wait until you actually make it! Check out the recipe card below and bring Chef Robert’s Zucchini Loaf to life in your own kitchen. Click here to Watch the Video.

in Food and Recipes, Video Blogs Posted by Chef Robert Mills

August 18, 2023August 18, 2023

Elevating Your Flavour Profiles with Fresh Frozen Vegetables

Ever wanted to have fresh vegetables all year round? In the latest episode of The World of Wellings, Chef Robert shares some innovative tips and tricks on how to enjoy fresh vegetables for longer.

We met up with Chef Robert in his kitchen in the Wellings of Stittsville where he showed us the art of maximizing flavour profiles in your dishes, all while using fresh vegetables that you can freeze and store for later.

Roasting Peppers for Maximum Flavour

We all know we can get peppers year-round. But what if you could capture the taste of summer in your meals even when it’s cold outside? Chef Robert demonstrates how to roast peppers to bring out the depth of their flavour and prepare them for freezing. Roasting not only gives the peppers a smoky aroma but also makes it easy to peel away the skin, keeping the flesh tender and delicious. The skin can sometimes have a slightly bitter taste, so removing it is a smart choice, especially if you’re using the peppers in a dish where their flavour is the star.

Once roasted, the peppers can be frozen and later used in a variety of dishes such as soups, salads, or sauces. The flavour remains intact, even after freezing and thawing, making them a versatile ingredient for any culinary enthusiast.

Blanching and Freezing Vegetables

Another technique Chef Robert introduces is the practice of blanching vegetables before freezing them. By briefly boiling vegetables like beans, broccolini, or asparagus and then immediately plunging them into an ice bath, you can lock in their vibrant colour, crisp texture, and fresh taste. Once cooled, they can be frozen and will retain their quality for months.

When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw and incorporate them into your dishes. Imagine the burst of freshness and colour they can bring to your plate even in the depths of winter.

Adding Herbs and Seasonings

We asked Chef Robert whether he recommends seasoning the vegetables with fresh herbs before freezing. His advice? Add the herbs and seasonings after thawing. This way, you can tailor the flavours to your specific dish and avoid any taste changes that might occur during freezing.

Take Advantage of Seasonal Produce

Chef Robert’s tips are perfect for those who enjoy shopping at farmers’ markets and want to preserve the flavours of summer’s bounty. By freezing fresh vegetables, you can take advantage of seasonal produce and continue to enjoy their taste throughout the year.

Elevating your flavour profiles doesn’t have to be complicated. With these simple tips from Chef Robert, you can enjoy the fresh taste of vegetables all year round and create dishes that are both delicious and nutritious. Click here to watch the video.

The World of Wellings continues to bring you insights from culinary experts and enthusiasts. Stay tuned for more tips, recipes, and kitchen wisdom.

in Food and Recipes, Video Blogs Posted by Chef Robert Mills

August 11, 2023May 3, 2024

The Magic of Shared Meals: Exploring Food & Friendship at Wellings

Join Nat and Kat on a delightful journey into the heart of Wellings, where food and socializing intertwine to create enriching experiences. In this episode of, The Good Life with Nat and Kat, we’re serving up more than just delicious recipes – we’re also celebrating the warmth of shared stories, the nourishment of companionship, and the exhilaration of trying new things.

At Wellings, we believe there’s more to dining than just eating. There are no designated food times, instead we foster an environment where food serves as an invitation to mingle and connect, reminiscent of our shared human experiences. From casual pub food, enticing pizzas, to elevated profile dishes, our chefs are excited to offer something unique to our members, making dinner not just a meal, but an event.

So, grab a cup of tea, invite a neighbour, and come down to the Atrium. Together, let’s continue to grow, learn, and live life to the fullest. Click here to enjoy the video.

in Food and Recipes, Healthy Aging, Video Blogs Posted by The Good Life With Kat & Nat