Have a great Canadian winter

Winter in Canada is something to celebrate. For a healthy dose of below-zero magic, lean into it with a thermos in hand, a toque on your head, layers of warm clothing, and an infinite sense of curiosity and adventure.

In Quebec City, winter makes an unforgettable entrance. The ‘Old Town’ almost doubles as a life-sized European snow globe, complete with cobblestone streets, old-fashioned store fronts, and twinkling lights. Glistening ice sculptures will catch your eye, and so will the view of the historic Château Frontenac looming in the background. It’s the perfect place to sip a hot beverage, indulge in decadent foods, and marvel at the beauty that the season brings.

Yellowknife offers a winter experience like no other. With the sun dipping below the horizon in the afternoon, and less than five hours of sunlight each day, the sky often rewards visitors with dazzling displays of Northern lights. They might even make you forget the biting cold that surrounds you, and each exhaled breath that visually suspends in the air before slowly dissipating into the darkness of night.

For splendid alpine scenes, Whistler delivers equal parts outdoor ruggedness and cozy indoor comfort. Snow-draped peaks set the stage for world-class skiing and snowboarding, while the village hums with firepits, the sound of boots crunching on fresh powder, and après-ski energy. Take a lap in snowshoes through silent forests, or a gondola ride that whisks you away to breathtaking vantage points high above it all, before settling in for an evening with cocktail menus and internationally inspired cuisine.

Have you considered a reverse mortgage?

Dear Money Lady Readers:

Many seniors have considered a reverse mortgage, but most have kept their thoughts a secret, not wanting to discuss it with friends or family, owing to the “shame” of having one.

First up, let’s address that shame square in the face. There is none! There is no shame in having to resort to a reverse mortgage if you’re running out of money and wish to age in place just a little longer. I am so tired of hearing from bankers who claim that it’s a horrible product that just forces seniors into boatloads of debt through the compounded interest that over time will suck-up the entire value of their home and leave them penniless and homeless.

Do you think that the Canadian banks that currently offer reverse mortgages (HomeEquity Bank and Equitable Bank/EQ Bank) would ever want that kind of bad press? There are matrices in place to ensure you cannot take out arbitrary amounts of your home equity at will, all based on your age, your home value, location, future value and your current debt situation. HomeEquity Bank is owned by the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System – Canada’s largest defined-benefit pension plan corporation – and EQ Bank, which has $137 billion in assets under management, owns Concentra Bank, which partners with 90 per cent of Canadian credit unions. There is also a new player on the Canadian scene this fall, as Home Trust just launched its reverse mortgage, which is called equity access reverse mortgage.

Sharing the burden

This topic is not new, and I know it’s not fun, but it is one we deal with too often, and it always helps when we share. A favourite line from Spider Robinson, my favourite science fiction author, is: “Shared pain is lessened; shared joy, increased.” We see this when we get a new pet, and people join in on the joy. When we lose a pet, our village shoulders the pain with us.

The hardest part of these situations is making the decision that it is time. The best advice I ever got on the subject came from the incredible Dr. Pol. For those who don’t watch nature channels, The Incredible Dr. Pol is a show featuring an endearing Dutch veterinarian who practises in the American Midwest. He is very straightforward, and his love for the animals is very evident.

We had just had our first French bulldog put down, owing to severe back issues that would have left her in pain the rest of her life, and my heart (and Jackie’s) was heavy, having made that decision. She was otherwise hale and healthy but condemning her to a life of pain would have been unfair.

A few weeks later, I was at a trade show where Dr. Pol was promoting a local brand of dog food. It was quiet, so we got a chance to talk after the photo op.

Adorable adoptables are looking for homes

Meet Scrambled.

She is a 2.5-month-old, medium cross-breed looking for her forever home. This egg-cellent little lady is full of snuggles, kisses, and goofy antics. She loves to tumble and play and tell her stories all day. If your looking to add a furry family member who is good with everyone she meets, head to the shelter to meet this bundle of joy

Baby Bell is a one-year-old. domestic short-hair who is the purrfect blend of sweet and spicy. She would love to find a furever family who can appreciate both her snuggly and her sassy sides.

She would do best in a calm environment without young children or too much activity going on. Could she be the right fit for you?

‘Buy now pay later’ not as convenient as it seems

Dear Money Lady Readers,

Have you been offered a BN-PL option at a store self-checkout or when shopping online?

It’s the latest thing this fall, offered by retailers, whether you’re buying household goods, car parts or even groceries. So, what is it you ask?

BN-PL stands for “buy now pay later” and is a new stream of business almost all financial institutions are getting involved in for 2026. With the rising cost of practically everything these days, banks, credit unions and even smaller companies that offer point-of-sale (POS) services have now realized there is an opportunity to capitalize on Canadians who are struggling.

Parcels piling up?

It’s delivery o’clock. That time of year when packages pile up at the door. After Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the deliveries seem endless and we often forget everything we’ve ordered. During the holiday shopping season, it’s nearly impossible to keep track of the gifts, deals, rewards, stocking stuffers and decorations we’ve purchased from various places.

Add holiday revelry, parties, long to-do lists, and increased stress, and you may not be thinking entirely straight when you get a text message stating your package is stuck at the border. You might immediately think of the limited-edition item you went out of your way to buy for a loved one. If it’s stuck at the border, the big surprise will be ruined. You desperately wanted the recipient to feel an extra bit of holiday magic. You get upset and anxious to fix the problem — and you click on the link in the text.

But the link was fake; and so was the text. They were part of a scam, designed to work exactly like it did — by preying on emotion and holiday stress.

Scammers take advantage of this season to lure victims into clicking on links, making phone calls and providing information. They will send messages that explain an array of issues — your package is stuck at the border, the driver cannot find your house, the address information is incomplete, and many more. They may include a link for you to click or provide a phone number. It’s important you don’t take any of the actions requested. Clicking on a link could lead you to malware and open to hackers. Calling the number will often lead to a “customer service representative” asking you questions they can then use to steal your money or identity.

Becoming a very good dog

Hi, I’m Slinky, and I’m a super-friendly, fun bundle of energy. I love to play with anyone and anything.

I’m also slowly starting to learn that relaxing and cuddling on the couch next to my favourite humans is actually quite nice.

I came into the care of Manitoba Mutts with a ‘to do’ list and so far, I’ve been able to check a few things off.

Slinky’s To Do list:

Investigating disability tax credits and programs

Dear Money Lady,

My nine-year-old daughter has multiple sclerosis. I read your newspaper column about government programs. It’s not exactly easy to make sense of all the information out there. What are the first steps I should take?

Thanks,

Marlene

Exploring Christmas Markets: Part 2

Part 2 of 2: This story is the second in a two-part series about Winnipeg’s Christmas market scene. You can read the first part here.

Third + Bird Winter Market is a cozy and magical experience taking place just outside Winnipeg. Wander through the van der Meer Garden Centre in Ile des Chênes, where they transform the space into a wonderland featuring more than 60 local vendors, fir and balsam trees, and sparkling lights. With the comforting aroma of hot brewed beverages wafting through the air.

This market blends the charm of an artisan fair with the natural beauty of a garden centre, creating warm and inviting surroundings to support independent makers. Keep an eye out for Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will be on-hand to take photos with kids of all ages. Don’t forget to step outside for marshmallow roasting around the bonfire. (Dec. 12-13) www.thirdandbird.com/wintermarket

The fourth annual Pitâw Mīno Muskîki Indigenous Handmade Holiday Market takes place at Winnipeg’s historic Via Rail Union Station. The market is organized by Pitâw Mīno Muskîkî (which means ‘brings good medicine’) a collective co-founded in 2022 by three Indigenous women. Browse goods from more than 90 Indigenous makers showcasing 100 per cent handmade crafts, jewelry, paintings, baked goods, clothing and accessories, and more.

‘Winnipeg’s Sweetheart’ captivated audiences

Edna Mae Durbin was born in Winnipeg on Dec. 4, 1921, to James and Ada Durbin, who came to Winnipeg from England in 1912. They settled on Gallagher Avenue in the city’s Weston neighbourhood.

Like most of his neighbours in Weston, then nicknamed “CPR Town,” James worked at the nearby CPR Weston Shops. His poor health couldn’t handle Winnipeg’s winters, so in 1923, before Edna Mae’s second birthday, the family relocated to Los Angeles.

Edna Mae loved to sing with her rich, mature, soprano voice. By the age of 12, she was a favourite on the L.A. recital scene and appeared semi-regularly on Eddie Cantor’s syndicated radio show heard on stations throughout North America, including Winnipeg. It wasn’t long before Hollywood came calling.

In 1936, Edna Mae signed a contract with MGM Studios, alongside another young prodigy named Frances Gumm. The studio renamed them Deanna Durbin and Judy Garland. There was room for only one young female star on the payroll, and MGM eventually went with Garland.

Holiday shopping online? Be wary of predators

Now it’s prime time for online holiday shopping. With several weeks before the season arrives, items should arrive in time, sales are popping up and Canadians are happy to get some of the work done early.

While cozying up with a cup of hot cocoa and scrolling through your festive favourites sounds great, danger lurks in those digital corners.

Online holiday shopping can quickly take a turn for the worse thanks to scammers ready to pounce on eager gift-givers. They take advantage of the holiday spirit and set up sophisticated operations to swindle hardworking Manitobans. For example, fake sites with professional photos, positive reviews and great sale prices on the Labubus your child desperately wants may be all smoke and mirrors. Consumers have reported getting knock-off fluff balls or nothing at all after placing orders on these real-looking sites. The experience leaves shoppers devastated, without the product they wanted and out the hard-earned cash they spent. Those on tight budgets can find themselves especially depressed, as they often don’t have the money to buy a replacement gift.

This is why it’s important to take precautions when buying online. The best way to ensure a product is what you want it to be is to shop in person. Locally owned businesses often offer unique and special holiday items, and you can hold and inspect them before buying. Search businesses on bbb.org to find third-party monitored reviews of local businesses.

With a little help from their friends

I’m not the only voice in this paper advocating for the well-being of our pets. There are many articles about rescues, fostering and adoption, either in general or about a specific animal or shelter in particular.

As we see the approach of winter, these needs become more dire, and the rescue community is already stressed to the limit, as animals that need shelter from the elements create additional demand.

Linda Toews is The Dishcloth Damsel on Facebook and Instagram, generously making handmade dish cloths and sells them to raise funds for rescues (available soon at Thrive with 100 per cent of the proceeds donated). She recently shared a post with me by Kristen Perich of Tails of Freedom rescue. While this is not a unique plea, Kristen states the seasonal plight of rescues quite well:

“We are out of space. Out of options. And it’s breaking our hearts.

Just a coupla guys, looking for a family to love

Meet Casper. He’s a four-month-old shepherd cross who loves everyone he meets — whether they have two legs or four. Full of sweetness and silliness, this goofy pup is sure to fill his furever home with all the love and laughter in the world. He’s an active boy looking for someone to match his energy. If this cutie could be right for you, come by to say hi.

Just look at Ryan! He is a one-and-a-half-year-old, domestic shorthair cat who’s looking for love. This quiet, observant guy has been happily watching the world go by from the sidelines. After living a life full of stress and danger, he seems so happy to know he is safe now. As nervous as he once was, he’s quickly come out of his shell. Continued gentleness and patience will help him reach his full potential and ensure he understands that he never needs to fear humans again. If you can give Ryan the quiet, happy life he’s always wanted, come by for a visit.

Exploring Winnipeg’s Christmas markets

Christmas markets have a fascinating history, dating back to the Middle Ages in German-speaking regions of Europe. These early ‘markets’ are best described as local gatherings where townspeople could come together before winter to stock up on food, firewood, goods and supplies. Over time, the markets evolved into festive events to celebrate the advent season, featuring handmade toys and ornaments, regional delicacies, and mulled wine.

By the 19th century, Christmas markets had expanded across Europe, adding decorations, brightly lit trees, nativity scenes, and music. Today they are popular around the world, blending holiday shopping with the longstanding tradition of celebrating community and craftsmanship.

In Winnipeg, there are several options to get you into the spirit of Christmas markets. Here are a few:

Now in its second year, the Winnipeg Christmas Market is the largest – and longest – in the city. Organized by Signature Shows and spanning four magical days — from Nov. 27 to 30 — at RBC Convention Centre, it takes place inside the spectacular City View Room, also known as Ozhaawashko-Giizhig.

Building a planet-friendly portfolio

Dear Money Lady,

We’re just starting to invest and wondered if there were any good investments you could recommend. We want something that makes money, of course, but also promotes environmental change and social justice.

Thanks,

Melanie