And just like that, we’re at the last speedlink of the year. Merry Christmas! Here’s a bit of fun reading for those moments you’re trying to get away from your annoying lovably unique relatives!

Dadcation soaks in the culture (and rum cocktails) of Havana Vieja. Better known as Old Havana to us English-speaking folk, Havana Vieja is a wonderfully colorful place. It’s no wonder that Ernest Hemingway loved the place so much. Cuba is definitely on my travel bucket list! Salsa lessons, live music, and delicious mojitos await.

Rebecca Coleman takes us on a tour of Commercial Drive bakeries in Vancouver. I love fresh baked items as much as the next guy, and the strong Italian and Portuguese roots of “The Drive” serve that appetite well. Can you believe I’ve never been to Flourist? And while I’ve had sandwiches at La Grotta and coffee at Cafe Calabria, I haven’t indulged in Fratelli. That needs to change soon!

Cindy Yu explores the BC’s capital city of Victoria, BC. If you’re looking for a quick day trip (or overnight trip) from Vancouver, there’s more to see in Victoria than the parliament buildings and the Empress Hotel… though high tea would be a glorious little treat. How about a cider tasting? Or exploring Goldstream Provincial Park?

Stuart Hood gives us a glimpse into his life as a contracting dad. Um, not “contractor” as in a “contractor” who fixes plumbing and installs kitchen cabinets. More like as a freelancer. Like me, as a work-at-home dad. It’s tough finding the time and balance, so it means establishing a different kind of work structure than pre-parenthood. But, somehow, we just have to make it work.

Janice Croze ends us on a tasty note with a recipe for homemade eggnog. Forgot to stock up from the supermarket before all the cousins showed up at your house for Christmas? Or maybe you’d prefer to steer clear of the store-bought variety to reduce sugar and calories? No problem. And this recipe uses cooked eggs, so there’s no need for alcohol either.

But feel free to imbibe responsibly if that’s your thing. Happy holidays!