Life

There's a picture-perfect seaside escape tucked away in Central Saanich behind Butchart Gardens.

Summer is picnic season. And picnics require planning, so here are 10 things to consider before, during and after your picnic. 1 HOW MUCH FOOD TO BRING Remember that outdoor activity boosts the appetite.

Last week, we heard from a mom worried about street play that was getting out of control, an issue that's timely, given recent warm weather.

The outdoor, away-from-home experience is vital to the process of growing up

PREVIEW Victoria Summer Music Festival When/where: July 24, 26, 28, 30, and 31, 7: 30 p.m., Phillip T. Young Recital Hall (School of Music, MacLaurin Building, UVic); preconcert talks before all concerts (except July 24), 6: 35 p.m.

Send us details about your hidden gems. Do you know of spots in the Greater Victoria area and even Vancouver Island that you find amazing. If you're in a generous mood and want to share, email web@timescolonist.com and we'll post the information.

The capital region is an outdoor lover's paradise, especially in summer when the days are long and even the rain takes a vacation. Today, the Times Colonist introduces a new summer series: Eight Hidden Over the next eight weeks, our reporters and photographers will introduce you to some of the region's lesser known outdoor getaways.

EXHIBIT What: Impulse Where: G++ Interactive Media Gallery, 1119 Fort St. When: Opening reception Friday at 8 p.m. Runs Friday through Aug. 1 As any paramedic or personal trainer could tell you, heart-rate monitors are pretty useful things.

In-season summer fruit with a rich biscuit topping baked until bubbly and delicious. If desired, serve portions of cobbler with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

THE LIFE AND ART OF INA D.D. UHTHOFF By Christina Johnson-Dean Mother Tongue Publishing, 114 pp., $32.95 The Life and Art of Ina D.D. Uhthoff is the fifth book in The Unheralded Artists of B.C.