Life

With a little planning, a little help and a lot of resolve, holiday entertaining doesn't have to mean you're too stressed out to enjoy your own party.

Seven downtown art galleries are opening their doors to creative sightseers today.

HISTORIC Craigdarroch Castle. 1050 Joan Cres., daily 10 a.m.-4: 30 p.m. 250-592-5323. Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites. 603 Fort Rodd Hill Rd. 9 a.m.-4: 30 p.m. daily. 250-478-5849. pc.gc.

A Saanich woman wants to help local youth feel connected

Oprah Winfrey is heading to Canada to offer inspirational insights for the new year. The media mogul will host an event called An Evening with Oprah Winfrey in Calgary and Vancouver in January.

Two century-old paintings by Victoria's Emily Carr fetched almost $260,000 at a Sotheby's auction in Toronto Tuesday.

Forget Santa - how about a picture of your best friend cosying up with the Grinch instead? Pet Photos with the Grinch is a fundraiser that benefits Broken Promises Rescue.

So don't give gas vouchers to close friends

The Christmas season kicks into high gear this weekend with a pair of parades: ? If somebody in your family loves big trucks, Island Equipment Owners Association's Truck Light Convoy and Food Drive on Saturday shouldn't be missed.

IN CONCERT Jim Byrnes (opening act Babe Gurr) When: Saturday, 7: 30 p.m. Where: Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney Tickets: $36.50 (250-656-0275) Dislike country music? Don't tell Jim Brynes. "Some people say, 'I like all music.