Debbie Ristimaki

Who you gonna call? 311

A car that hasn’t been moved for snow clearing? Call 311. Your neighbour’s sump pump hose discharging illegally? Call 311. Your neighbour’s grass out of control? Call 311. Noxious weeds on residential, city or provincial property? Call 311. Are you aware of damage resulting from snow clearing operations – curbs, for example? Call 311. Builders dumping illegally? Call 311. Cars parked illegally – on the sidewalk, facing the wrong direction, too far from the curb, appearing abandoned or derelict? Call 311.

Etc., etc., etc. Yes, call 311.

The answer to everything is “call 311”. Don’t get me wrong, I certainly value the service and the action that the city takes in most situations but what I do not value nor understand is why raising neighbourhood issues falls on the shoulders of its residents.

Why should you have to report on your neighbour?

City must manage our money much better

In March 2022, I sent an email to the office of then-mayor Brian Bowman, asking the following questions:

Flat tire helps fill the cup of kindness

It is funny how a moment in time, an experience or encounter can change one’s mindset or correct it, for lack of a better term. That’s exactly what happened to me on a recent Winnipeg winter day.

Listen to what the sun dogs say this winter

According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, “sundogs appear when sunlight passes through a thin veil of ice crystal clouds (usually cirrus or cirrostratus) and the ice acts a prism, refracting the light.” They most commonly appear in winter.

There’s more than one way to buy wine

There is a part of me that understands the measures that Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries put in place at Liquor Mart stores in order to deter thefts and attacks on its employees. I am keenly aware how costs are passed on to the consumer and, as someone who has experienced a number of holdups working for a financial institution, I also understand the impact of such violence on the employees.

Never too late to address mental health

Every year, when the Bell Let’s Talk campaign launches, I have done my part to help raise funds for Bell Canada’s mental health initiative on Let’s Talk Day (which was Jan. 26 this year). I add a frame to my Facebook profile, I share posts, I retweet messages.

Get involved this municipal election

There is still plenty of time to get to know those running in the next municipal election, slated for Oct. 26.

Letting bird photos tell our stories

Nature, and birds in particular, tell the story of where we live, according to South Pointe’s Brock Gunter-Smith. A self-taught photographer, Brock has succeeded in capturing everything from muskrats to deer and coots — which he feels “have the ugliest babies, known as cooties” — even an osprey that had just caught its dinner. Did you know there are fish in our neighbourhood lakes?

As much as he takes it all in, Gunter-Smith admits to being partial to what he calls, the “mysterious birds” such as owls and cormorants.

“They make me wonder ‘Where do they go?’” he says.

There is no shortage of birds and wildlife to capture in his own backyard but he is also known for exploring the area with camera in hand. He is surprised by how many people will stop and talk to him about the birds. Other spots he can be found include FortWhyte Alive, the English Garden at Assiniboine Park and Oak Hammock Marsh, which is known as a birding hotspot. All his experiences have him now thinking of putting a book together.

Late snowfall puts cycling on hold — for now

April at last! The snow was fast disappearing, leaving the evidence of winter’s passing in the form of sand and grit everywhere. The birds were happy and even the geese and gulls were back in abundance.

Best of all, the trails of Bridgwater were clear, albeit wet, from the melting snow which meant that it was time to get the bicycles out.

We decided to purchase new bikes this year and had been looking forward to breaking them in and exploring the trails after what had felt like a long, cold and brutal winter.

Did you know that there are approximately 30 kilometres of trails in Bridgwater, with five kilometres in Forest alone? Combine that with the trails in nearby Prairie Pointe and South Pointe and there is no shortage of biking options.

Getting used to the ‘new normal’

I know that life has to return to some sort of normalcy because we all know that the last two years have been far from normal. Our lives have been disrupted on many levels. From how and where we work to how and where we play.

I have spent the better part of the last two years working from home, rarely going into the office. My laptop is my lifeline. It is how I work, connect with my colleagues and meet others. It is my phone, my meeting place and my workplace. All this to say, my laptop and I are practically attached at the hip. No, let me rephrase that, we are attached at the hip — there is no maybe about it.

The funny thing is that prior to March 2020, I could often be heard saying that I would like to work from home. There is a lesson in there — you have to be careful what you wish for!

We were in Mexico just as the world was closing down and have not travelled since. A trip out to the Half Moon Drive In in Lockport does not count.

What do you call various types of snow?

Snow is definitely a ‘hot’ topic this winter and one I could certainly rant about — but I won’t. Instead, I have opted to take another direction.

Have you ever wondered how many words and terms for snow there are in the English language?

Well, my vocabulary includes a few and, admittedly, a few I cannot print.

Let’s see, there is ‘snowball snow’ which is wet and easily moulded into a ball that holds its shape — perfect for launching at your arch nemesis. It can also be called ‘snowman snow’ as it is relatively easy to roll.

I’ve tried be (mostly) nice this year…

Dear Santa,

I know that you keep naughty and nice lists and I have no doubt that there would be many a name on both.  

I am not sure that I should admit this and if you ever repeat it, I will deny it — but, every now and then, I might have made a brief appearance on the naughty list. That said, when push came to shove, I have, for the most part, been good.

So, yes Santa, I am trying to make a case to ensure that I am on the right list when the big day rolls around. It has been a difficult year — filled with challenges of all sorts.  I have been jabbed, not once but twice.  I wear a mask and social distancing is now ingrained in my psyche.

A reminder to be kind to yourself and others

Sat., Nov. 13 is World Kindness Day. Many would agree when I say that the world can do with a little more kindness but, for that to happen, we all have roles to play.

Be kind to others

Perhaps I am old fashioned but I am a firm believer in ‘please’ and ‘thank-you’. It says that you recognize that you are asking someone to do or maybe even not do something. It says that you appreciate their effort. And, most of all, it says that you respect and value them.

Funny enough, it does not take much to make this happen. Two simple words and yet it often feels like politeness is becoming a lost art.

Looks as the future will be in good hands

I recently had an opportunity to sit down with a future voter to talk politics - not so much about the parties and their respective candidates - but his passion for politics, what drives it, andabout  the importance of voting.

Matthew Sévigny is a 16-year-old Grade 11 student at Vincent Massey Collegiate with strong opinions gained from living in five different provinces.

He sees that experience as having given him “a vast diversification of views from the Maritimes to the very different politics of Quebec, Ontario and the conservative ones of Alberta.”  

He is fascinated to see how, in his words, “the thought process varies from region to region within the same country.”

Fill your drawers with the sharpest knives

Everyone has a story and this one is about Bret Gordon and how a crazy idea turned into a thriving business called Wood Forge Sharpening.

Three years into his chosen career in environmental design, Bret was sidelined with a repetitive motion injury in 2018 which meant that he could no longer continue. Wood Forge Sharpening emerged in 2019 as Bret reinvented himself by leveraging a completely different set of skills.

“I would do the work by hand, if I could,” Bret said.

Unfortunately, that was no longer an option, and a Tormek machine, which requires very little pressure, has become his primary work tool and blade sharpener of choice.

‘Outhousing’ across the country

What do a three-legged black bear and an outhouse have in common?  The answer might surprise you.

A little over two weeks clear of my second vaccine, I packed up my car and was Montreal-bound to pick up my mom and her cat Rosie, who were moving here to Winnipeg.  

Admittedly, I was concerned about travelling in these strange times given that I was driving alone and unsure of what I would encounter in terms of facilities and accommodations. My concerns proved to be unfounded.

Enter the outhouse.  

Better signs installed in Bridgwater

My first column of 2021 was about my wish list for the neighbourhood, which touched on speed, road safety and road design.

What didn’t make it to paper, but no less important, was the fact that I also felt that the city needed to take a serious look at the intersections of North Town Road and Kenaston Boulevard - I use the plural because Kenaston is split into north- and southbound lanes by Bridgwater Centre.

At issue is the high number of drivers who turn the wrong way on to Kenaston, either heading north on the southbound side or vice versa, heading south on the northbound. Over the years, I have lost count of the number of times I have witnessed it first-hand and I know that I am not alone in that experience.

The design at Kenaston and South Town Road and Kenaston and Bison Drive is similar, but I cannot say if and how often the situation occurs at those points.

Spring is for the birds

I know that there are those who would disagree with me but I think that we are privileged to live within such close proximity to nature.  There is no shortage of parks and green spaces in Winnipeg where there is an abundance of wildlife.

White-tailed deer and birds definitely top the list.

Deer can be found in parks and neighbourhoods across the city, including Bridgwater Forest. Outside of rutting season, they are relatively docile when you maintain your distance.

They also happen to be quite photogenic and I have been lucky enough to capture a few good photos. If you are like me and enjoy exploring with a camera in hand, there is a Facebook group - Manitoba Bird and Wildlife Photography - where members share their wildlife photos and where they were taken.  I have discovered some new areas to explore thanks to them.

Facebook memories are made of this…

If you’re on Facebook, you’d be familiar with the ‘memories’ in the form of photos and posts that periodically pop up in your feed. I am not sure how it works behind the scenes, as there appears to be no rhyme nor reason to me but, for the most part, they bring you back to what was, hopefully, a happy moment in time.

The latest memory in my feed was a pleasant reminder of our January 2020 vacation in Mexico. In it, I had commented on both our breakfast churros and evening margaritas, the colour of the ocean and its waves and that, on Day 1 alone, we met vacationers from Chicago, Vancouver, and England. It was wonderful.

While the pop-up did what was intended by evoking a variety of thoughts and emotions, it also served as a stark reminder of what was and what is.

Fast forward to January 2021. What is.

Code red doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do

It was 6:30 p.m. on a Monday night and I was exhausted. My column was due and all that I could do was look at an empty page. Instead of trying to force words on to the page, I opted to give in and head off to bed.

As I laid down, there were no visions of sugar plum fairies dancing in my head.  There were no flashes of beaches or infinity pools. There was only life under code red.

Sure, this new state of pandemic response level means that restrictions have been placed on day-to-day life but there is so much more to life than shopping, going to the movies and dining out. We are surrounded by life and there is nothing stopping us from embracing it to its fullest.

With that in mind, here are my top five ways to embrace the life around us.

A useful message in these times

Be local, be kind, be clean and be brazen.

Sound familiar? 

Perhaps that’s because you have seen the intriguing sign in front of Brazen Hall Kitchen and Brewery on Pembina Highway. Sure it may be a plug for the establishment but it’s also a simple and yet powerful message. It’s a good reminder of how we should be holding out as we live through the COVID-19 experience.

Why do we need a reminder?

Camping for the first time? Sure, why not

I have always said I would try anything once — within reason. When it came time to look at our summer vacation, the idea of camping came up as we’re not going to be able pack the car and head out on our annual road trip adventure, thanks to COVID-19.

The more we talked about, the more it sounded like a fun adventure. We did, however, face a number of challenges, including the fact we don’t have any camping gear — but we didn’t let that stop us.

The first thing we had to do was figure out what kind of equipment would be needed. We did the rounds of Mountain Equipment Co-op on Portage Avenue, Cabela’s on Sterling Lyon Parkway and even the nearby Canadian Tire. We had to purchase everything from a tent to a camp stove/grill, mattresses to sleep on and a table and chairs. We bought all of that and more. We were ready!

We managed to find an unserviced spot at Birds Hill campground which meant no running water and no electricity. We were really going to ‘rough it’.

Living through our #newnormal

We are not even six months into 2020 and my list of how the year will be remembered is already quite lengthy.

It includes both joy and sorrow, disappointment and surprise, as well as an overarching shock at how fast our lives have changed followed by amazement at how quickly so many have adapted in such a short period of time which; as a side note — it just goes to show what can happen when people work together.

The list grows every day. Breaking it down, this is how it looks so far:

Staying connected with others

Keep seniors engaged, active

Staying home during the time of COVID-19 certainly carries a far different meaning than what ‘staying home’ meant only a few short months ago.

Today, it really means staying home.

It means that many a senior can no longer partake in their usual activities and social outings which are critical to maintaining both their physical and mental wellbeing. It means having to find new outlets and connections.

With that in mind, here are a few suggestions on how they can maintain that sense of connectedness and remain both mentally stimulated and challenged:

Two businesses, two approaches

Early in March, I sat down with Roberto Sinopoli, president of Bridgwater Centre’s Verde Aveda Salon to talk about the growth of his business. It was an exciting time for him and his team as the countdown was on to the April grand opening of Verde’s second location, in the Seasons of Tuxedo development at the junction of Sterling Lyon Parkway and Kenaston Boulevard.And then everything changed. COVID-19 has gripped our world. Like many small business owners, Sinopoli soon found himself having to make the difficult decision to temporarily close. At the time of writing, the closure was scheduled to last until at least April 1, with the situation to be reassessed at that time. News and updates can be found by following Verde Salon on Facebook or www.verdesalon.ca  Choosing a different path, Aurora Farm, located at 4265 Waverley St., just south of Perimeter Highway, remains open with modified accessibility.Visitors are welcome to drop by to view the animals on weekends; however, given the challenge that comes with attempting to sanitize a working farm, they are asked to remain in their vehicles.The farm store is not currently open to the public but online shopping is an option for those in need of soap and/or body care products. Purchases can be shipped for a minimal fee or picked up directly on site at no additional cost. According to Louise May, Aurora’s owner, they “hope to make a positive contribution to people’s sense of well-being and manage to stay afloat through this time.” With that in mind, May is planning on starting up a weekly organic food and grocery necessities home delivery service by leveraging their existing Food Box Program, which starts up in the spring.Fresh eggs are also available by calling the farm directly at 204-261-6279.May went on to say “a big event like this can be devastating to small businesses. That is why we need all our regular customers, now more than ever.”More information, including product selection, can be found by visiting their Facebook page or www.aurorafarm.caSinopoli, May, and their respective employees are not alone in their struggle to face the current crisis ahead. They need the community’s support just as the community needs them. After all, we are all in this together.Debbie Ristimaki is a community               correspondent for Bridgwater Forest.

Early in March, I sat down with Roberto Sinopoli, president of Bridgwater Centre’s Verde Aveda Salon to talk about the growth of his business. It was an exciting time for him and his team as the countdown was on to the April grand opening of Verde’s second location, in the Seasons of Tuxedo development at the junction of Sterling Lyon Parkway and Kenaston Boulevard.

And then everything changed. COVID-19 has gripped our world. Like many small business owners, Sinopoli soon found himself having to make the difficult decision to temporarily close. At the time of writing, the closure was scheduled to last until at least April 1, with the situation to be reassessed at that time. 

News and updates can be found by following Verde Salon on Facebook or www.verdesalon.ca  

Giving back during the holiday season

Giving back to the community is something that we strive to do year-round, however it always seems to hold a greater urgency as we move into December.

This is our second year of participating in Home Instead Senior Care’s Be a Santa to a Senior initiative.  It is a wonderful program that provides some Christmas cheer to local seniors — many of whom are isolated or impoverished. Last year 6,500 gifts were distributed.

Although it may be too late to participate this year (Dec. 6 was the deadline to drop off gifts), there are many other opportunities to make a difference in someone else’s life this holiday season. Two of the most recognized programs are the Salvation Army’s Toy Mountain and the Christmas Cheer Board’s seasonal drive but there are countless others.  One need not look far to find opportunities.  

Locally, in the Bridgwater area, The Moore Group is once again collecting non-perishable items for the breakfast program at William Whyte Community School located in Winnipeg’s inner-city. The school endeavours to provide a healthy start to approximately 300 children.

Halloween meet-and-greet lots of fun

One of the best things that we have done to get to know others in our neighbourhood is set up outside for Halloween.  

No, I don’t mean decorating, although we do like our pumpkins. I mean that we actually set up a table filled with loot bags and treats outside on our driveway.

Yes, it can be cold. It can rain and as it did this year, it can also snow; but dressed appropriately to match the weather, it is very doable. And, is this where I admit that a glass of wine doesn’t hurt when it comes to staying warm?

If truth be told, we discovered the power in setting up outside because of the dogs. We wanted to hand out treats but knew that our dogs would be an issue and their barking might frighten some of the kids so, a few years ago, we decided to try setting up on the driveway and have not looked back since.

Support the Sparks by buying cookies

My intention, when I sat down to write my column, was to cover the recent South Winnipeg crime forum in St. Norbert. That was derailed, however, when a trio of young girls appeared at our front door.

No, they were not expected nor were they lost. Maya and Arianna were, in fact, Sparks and they were going door to door, along with Arianna’s sister, selling cookies.

Sparks is a Girl Guides program designed for five and six year olds. The girls are a part of the 386th Winnipeg Unit, which meets weekly at Whyte Ridge Elementary School.

According to Girl Guides Canada, funds raised from the twice a year sale of Sparks cookies goes into a variety of programs designed to provide the girls with opportunities to develop new skills, discover new interests and make friends. Being a volunteer organization, community members help “deliver a unique program that encourages girls to build life skills in outdoor adventure, financial literacy, mental health, advocacy and more.”

‘Smart’ waste and recycling system being tested

So, is this where I laugh at myself for jumping in the car and heading out to Waterbend Park in Bridgwater Lakes?

Did I mention that this trip was to check out Bigbelly and take its picture? And that Bigbelly is a garbage and recycling receptacle?

Well, if you aren’t laughing, you should be, because that is exactly what I did.

All kidding aside, Bigbelly is a smart waste and recycling system currently being piloted by the City of Winnipeg. One unit has been installed in each of Winnipeg’s 15 wards and Bridgwater Lakes was chosen in Waverley West.

Slowing down and driving safely

Following my move to Winnipeg in 2013, when it came to driving and road safety, two issues stood out to me.

The first being, the number of drivers who didn’t know how to merge into traffic, and secondly, the number of accidents on Kenaston Boulevard.

Fast forward to 2019. Little has changed when it comes to merging, which I know is more of a frustration than anything but, behaviours like speeding are more than just a frustration.

In Bridgwater Forest alone, I have lost count of the number of accidents that I have come across. On Bridgeland S., between Arbour Meadow Gate and Poplar Point, five accidents come to mind, and that doesn’t include the one that killed a deer. Yes, five on what should be a relatively quiet residential street.

Bridgwater building a vibrant community

I try to take a positive approach with my columns and will endeavour to do so today.

With that in mind, here is my version of “the good, the bad, and the ugly” of life in Bridgwater this summer.

• The good — The word that comes to mind is community. I know that I’ve written about it before (and be forewarned, this may not be the last) but Bridgwater should be proud of the progress being made towards building a vibrant community and by Bridgwater, I mean its residents and not the developers.

• The bad — I’ve said it before and will say it again. I’m a nimby (not in my backyard) when it comes to the darn bunnies. They are cute, cuddly and very destructive.

Rockin’ around the block builds community

Waverley West city councillor Janice Lukes, believes in the power of community and for that reason has made funding available to ward residents who want to hold block parties.

“I think it's so important, in new communities or any community for that matter, for residents to get to know their neighbours, to support local businesses and to connect with each other,” Lukes said.

And it is happening.

Every second Friday in June, for the past five years, the residents of Erin Woods Street in Bridgwater Forest have gotten together to host a block party. They have tried a variety of approaches over the years, varying its theme — from potlucks to appies — and its location.

Hello, neighbour

On a “fresh” afternoon in May, we put on our hiking shoes, grabbed our jackets and headed off to meet some of our neighbours on the trails of Bridgwater Forest.

Our usual route has us jumping on the trail at Arbour Meadow Gate, following it as it meanders by the gazebo, and then on to the fountain and back over the bridge.  This day was no different.

What was different, was who we met along the way.

There were a few deer, a variety of birds including black capped chickadees that never fail to entertain, red-winged blackbirds perched atop the reeds surrounding the lakes, what I think was a hawk, a woodpecker, a few noisy crows, a couple pairs of mallards and of course, Canada geese. Oh, and some very vocal squirrels.

Things are getting busy around here…

Here’s a roundup of several upcoming neighbourhood events:

• A spring cleanup sponsored by Take Pride Winnipeg and Save on Foods is planned for Sat., May 4 at 10 am. Residents are asked to meet at the fountain and to wear closed-toe footwear. If you have work gloves, please bring them.  

• A date for the community garage sale is being finalized — watch for updates on the Bridgwater Forest Neighbourhood Association’s Facebook page.

• Those who use the trails throughout the neighbourhood will have noticed the high number of dead and dying trees. There is a desire to create a committee to spearhead a fall tree-planting initiative. Interested residents are asked to contact the association at bridgwaterforest@hotmail.comIn other news, the long awaited speed tables are expected to be installed on Bridgeland Drive South as soon as the weather permits. They will be located just east of Poplar Point, where the deer cross.

A trip to Aurora Farm

Looking for something to do with the kids on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon?

Do you hear the call of baby goat yoga? Want to learn how to make your own goat’s milk soap? Or are you simply interested in exploring a local farm?

If your answers to any or all of the questions is “yes,” then a trip to Aurora Farm is called for.

Sitting just south of the Perimeter, Aurora Farm bills itself as “A place for learning, sharing and growing.”

The love of a shih tzu named Brandy

According to Alberta’s 2014 Consumer Corner and the Canadian Pet Market Outlook, 57 per cent of Canadian households owned a pet.

I would like to tell you the story of one.  A shih tzu named Brandy.  

Brandy was not famous. She couldn’t do any tricks. She couldn’t jump through hoops nor dance to music.

In fact, she couldn’t even get on the sofa without a boost or what was affectionately called a “butt lift.”

How I learned to love Winterpeg

I can still recall laughing the first time I saw Winnipeggers using leaf blowers to remove snow from their sidewalks and stairs. That was in 2013.

Fast forward to 2019. I no longer laugh when I see the leaf blowers come out but they still bring a smile to my face.

Why is that you wonder? Well, as a former Montrealer, I was used to higher levels of humidity year-round and with that came lots of heavy, wet snow in the winter. I could not have imagined using a leaf blower to remove snow.

Winnipeg snow tends to be soft and fluffy (at least until it hardens with the temperature) so it is easy to see why the blower works so well.

Let’s get to know our neighbours this year

Hello neighbour!

Tyler Falk shares the results of what he calls his 'quasi-research' project on the benefits of getting to know your neighbours in his article “Why you should say hello to strangers on the street” on the Bridgwater Forest Facebook page.

It seems that even the small gesture of acknowledging someone, goes a long way to creating a sense of connectedness, of belonging. And, most importantly, it’s good for you.

Looking back on some of my recent experiences, I can definitely see the correlation. A sense of community comes with knowing your neighbours.

Many ways to enjoy holiday lights

Thomas Edison may have invented the light bulb and the first strand of electric lights but it was his friend and partner Edward H. Johnson who developed the first coloured tree lights — the precursor to today’s Christmas lights. That was in 1882 — we’ve come a long way since then.

Whether they are blue, green, red, purple or even clear, Christmas lights are festive and a welcome addition to the landscape in the shorter days of November and December.

If you would like to explore the season through Christmas lights, you have a number of options available to you.

The list that follows is not exhaustive but it includes a couple of free ideas as well:• Canad Inns Winter Wonderland is on until Jan. 5 at Red River Exhibition Park. One million lights and 26 different themes are sure to appeal to all ages. Pricing and hours can be found at www.redriverex.com/canad-inns-winter-wonderland/

The season of the senses

Fruitcake, peanut brittle and sugar cookies. Lemon meringue, apple pie and traditional shortbread.

Is your mouth watering yet? No? Then, how about cheese cake, macaroons, and red velvet cupcakes.

These are just a few of the many classic treats that you can find at Lilac Bakery, where owner Chris Atkinson prides himself on delivering a quality product that is reminiscent of both the ingredients and baking one could have found in many a home of yesteryear.

“Even my fruitcake is made using my grandmother’s recipe,” Chris says. “It is a nicely wrapped, one-pound loaf, filled with pineapple, raisins, and cherries.”  

There’s still time to see goose flights

There are many places a relatively short commute from Winnipeg where you can enjoy nature before the cold weather and parkas take over.

For those with a particular interest in birds and their migrating habits, there are a couple that should be at the top of your ‘must see’ list — Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre and FortWhyte Alive.

Located a mere 20 minutes from Winnipeg, between Stonewall and Selkirk, Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre covers 36 square kilometres and is a joint project of Ducks Unlimited Canada and the Province of Manitoba. Its features include interactive exhibits where you can learn about wetlands and their inhabitants, a calendar filled with a host of activities for visitors of all ages, 30 kilometres of hiking trails, a coffee shop and gift shop.

During the migrating season, it is estimated that over 100,000 water fowl including Canada geese, snow geese, and ducks use the marsh per day. Of course, water fowl are not the only birds that stop in or call Oak Hammock Marsh home during the migrating season. Bird surveys are completed regularly and the results are published on their website.

Roadtripping in southern Manitoba

We have been considering adding an accent wall of reclaimed barn wood in our dining room. So, we decided to explore the idea further by combining our love of road trips with a visit to Prairie Barnwood in Morden.

Prairie Barnwood is a furniture maker specializing in country style pieces made with reclaimed wood from old barns, homesteads, and other structures. Much of the wood is salvaged in southern Manitoba but they do source wood from across the country.

Whether it is a bed, vanity, barn door or wall, as in our case, Prairie Barnwood has much to offer.

They are also open to working with you for custom orders.

Southwest Winnipeg is hopping

If you missed Bridgwater Trail’s ice-cream at Rose Lake Fountain in June, no worries.

You have another chance to join your neighbours on July 27 when the ice cream truck will be back. A larger event is being planned for Sept. 16 at Eskar Park on Appleford Gate. The plan is to have food trucks, bouncy houses, a video truck, and face painting. Children will be invited to wear their Halloween costumes.

Bridgwater Lakes had quite the turnout for its July Food Truck Friday and plans are already under way for the next one. Mark your calendars — Aug. 24 is the date.  

Active August is also right around the corner. The local neighbourhood association has put together a number of free active living classes, including zumba, stroller fitness, and yoga. Further details can be found at www.bridgwaterlakesna.com

Great work done at PWRC

Established in 2008, the Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre rescues and cares for injured, sick and orphaned wildlife.

Animals at PWRC come primarily from the Winnipeg area but the centre does accept wildlife from anywhere in Manitoba. The organization is often contacted by provincial conservation officers who have encountered wildlife in need of rehabilitation.  

In 2017, 1,400 animals were admitted with 38 per cent eventually released back into their native habitats. Of the balance, approximately 30 per cent died due to stress and/or injuries sustained and another 30 per cent had to be euthanized.  

There are currently 121 animals in care. That includes everything from a bobcat to porcupines, woodchucks, eagles and owls to baby squirrels, ducklings and goslings. There is even a scarlet tanager, a songbird not typically found in Winnipeg, with a broken collarbone.

Building a Manitoba bucket list

My journey to explore Manitoba continued on Mother’s Day with a trip to Narcisse to see the famous snake dens.

Given the day, we expected it to be relatively quiet, however, we were very much mistaken. From the moment we turned into the parking lot, it was obvious we would not be alone.  It was already full, despite it being relatively early in the day. By the time we left, the parking lot was overflowing, leaving no option for late arrivals but to park on the road.  

A three-kilometre limestone trail begins at the parking lot and leads you to all the dens, where viewing platforms provide an opportunity to watch the activity of the red-sided garter snakes.  

Whether you like snakes or not, it’s definitely an experience that I would highly recommend.

Bridgwater is becoming a community

“Please, let a convenience store be in our future” was the headline on my column of Nov 19, 2014.

Co-Op definitely answered the call with its gas bar and convenience store but there has been so much more. In less than four short years, there has been incredible change and growth in the neighbourhoods of Bridgwater and the trend continues.

The commercial area, Town Centre, is coming together with a number of new businesses now or soon to be open.

Eyes on Bridgwater, which faces Save-On Foods, opened this past January and its four optometrists offer eye exams and contact lens fittings. According to Dr. Michael Nelson, they “also offer a broad range of eyewear styles and pricing.”

Show some appreciation for pets this month

April is Pet Appreciation month at Pet Valu which means that stores will be collecting both food and monetary donations for local organizations.  

Additionally, each franchise and corporate store has partnered with a rescue and/or shelter to plan events and adoption days. Stores are encouraged to be creative and have been known to hold everything from bake sales and photo days to raffles and silent auctions.

Since its launch in 2011, 24,120 pets have found new homes and $8.8 million dollars has been raised with 100 per cent of donations remaining in the local communities.  In 2017 alone, over $2 million dollars was raised along with 2,014 pet adoptions. According to Lesley Clark, co-franchisee of the Charleswood and Tuxedo stores, “Every dollar donated counts.  It takes so little to do so much for so many.”

Clark acknowledged that they couldn’t do it without the support of their loyal customers.

The inside story of Fast Pitch 2018

“Dragons’ Den for non-profits” is the term that has been coined to describe The Winnipeg Foundation initiative known as Fast Pitch.

This year’s program launched on Jan. 16 and has $20,000 up for grabs. It runs for eight weeks culminating with the final showcase on March 14, where finalists have three minutes to make their pitch for the top prize of $10,000.

There are 15 non-profits participating, with the list including such diverse organizations as Green Action Centre Inc., Islamic Social Services Association Inc., and Snowflake Place for Children and Youth Inc.

Three minutes is not lot of time so, to help make it happen, presenters are supported throughout the entire process beginning with a workshop where they learn how to tell their organization’s story. It is facilitated by Cate Friesen, of The Story Source and David McLeod, chief executive officer of Native Communications Inc.

Meet some culinary visionaries

This year is off to a great start with a couple of new finds in the city — Kitchen Sync and Sleepy Owl Bread. At first glance, the two appear to have absolutely nothing in common.

Upon closer look, they are more similar than not, beginning with the visionary entrepreneurs behind their success.

Located in a historical building at 370 Donald St. in the Sports, Hospitality, and Entertainment District, Kitchen Sync is the brainchild of Sheila Bennett, who was inspired by an article in a Vancouver newspaper about chefs sharing space. Marketed as a culinary events centre, it is a private venue available for hosting everything from corporate events to birthday parties.

Its commercial kitchen is also available to rent. The chefs of Raw: Almond are currently using it to prepare for the dinner sittings on the river.

Filling up the bingo card in Manitoba

I was handed an 8.5x11-inch sheet of paper laid out like a bingo card however, instead of letters and numbers, each box was labelled with the name of a place in Manitoba. At it’s centre, sat the "free."

My mission, along with everyone else attending the networking event, was to work the room and obtain the name of someone who had been to each place.

When the announcer said go, we had 15 minutes to fill in as many boxes as possible. Churchill, Emerson, Gimli, Morden and so it went. As my sheet filled, I soon found myself simultaneously excited and disappointed.

Excited because I was meeting a lot of people and making great progress. Disappointed because I quickly discovered that I could not add my name to anyone else’s sheet other than in the "free" box.

Remember the gift of time this holiday season

You cannot put a price tag on it nor can you return it. You can’t fit it into a gift box and you might as well forget about wrapping it. 

It is the gift that we all receive, often forget to give and sadly; it’s the one that many of us forget to appreciate, often until its too late.

It is the gift of time. 

The time that we spend doing what we love and being with those we love is really all that matters. It is those experiences and memories that become a part of who we are. They are our stories and everyone has a story.

Comfort food amid an ocean-going theme

Bruce Smedts, a resident of Bridgwater Lakes, is the embodiment of what it means to be a successful entrepreneur.

As the heart and soul behind the White Star Diner, a downtown restaurant, Bruce has successfully developed a winning recipe by blending his passions for food and classic ocean liners.  

The diner is a relatively new addition on Kennedy Street, having moved there in April 2017. It is, however, far from being a new player on the Winnipeg scene, as it had previously occupied space on Albert Street in the Exchange District.

Bruce and his niece Hannah, with whom he runs the diner, are typically on hand to greet you and they, along with the rest of the staff, strive to ensure a memorable experience for all.

Growers with a real passion for pumpkins

It's rare that you get to meet someone who is as passionate about what they do as Melody Schwabe of Schwabe Pumpkins.

For the past 13 years, Melody, her husband George and their three daughters have been growing pumpkins and this is the second year they've been selling pumpkins directly from their farm. Prior to that, you would have found them selling from a roadside stand on Henderson Highway in September and October.

A visit to the Schwabes’ farm is not just about pumpkins. It is an experience born out of Melody’s love of the season.

As soon as you step out of your car, you are welcomed into the land of the pumpkin. From the driveway to the barn and into the field, pumpkins, pumpkin decorations and jack-o-lantern displays abound. If you look close enough, you may spot a witch or two, as well.

The busy life of our local councillor

You see her at community events, at neighbourhood meetings and even out and about on her bike.  Regardless of when and where you meet up with her, she always has a smile and is ready to chat. I am, of course, referring to Janice Lukes, the city councillor for South Winnipeg - St. Norbert ward.

I recently sat down for coffee, with Janice, at the new Bridgwater Centre Tim Hortons.  It was an opportunity to get to know her and find out what drives her.  Sure, you can read her bio on her website (janicelukes.ca), follow her on the news, and ultimately form an opinion but that doesn't really give you any insights as to who she is beyond that persona.

Everyone has a story and this is a brief glimpse into hers.

Janice has seen more than her fair share of hot water. She lost both her father and one of her siblings in different accidents. Rather than letting tragedy negatively influence her life, she has an innate ability to remain positive and focussed on what is truly important. When asked if the rest of her family is the same, she said, “Yes, they too have the pick-up and go approach.” Genes obviously play a role.  

Travelling with a pet requires planning

Brandy, our 15-year-old shih tzu recently accompanied me on a road trip to Montreal.  

It was great to have the company and ‘someone’ to talk to on the three-day drive. (Note that I said ‘to’ and not ‘with!’)

Aside from the obvious advantage of travelling with a pet, it also has its challenges, especially in the summer. Those challenges can be magnified when the pet is of an advanced age, like Brandy.

First and foremost, summer travel means constantly being aware of the temperature and not leaving your pet in the car, regardless of its age. That, in itself, meant that there were no spur-of-the-moment stops to shop, sightsee and/or even grab something to eat.

Going to Arizona by road a great experience

“Where are we going on vacation?”  

After much discussion, we finally agreed on two things — neither of which was the answer. It would be a road trip and we would draw for the destination. We each placed five locations in a bowl and out came Scottsdale, Ariz.

And so began another adventure...

The drive through the Dakotas and Iowa was uneventful and somewhat unremarkable. Nebraska, on the other hand, was very windy. So windy, in fact, that I promised not to complain about our wind once home (at least for a while).

Entrepreneurs set up in Bridgwater

Bridgwater Centre continues to evolve and grow on North Town Rd. with a number of new players including Verde Salon and Pet Valu.

Inasmuch as they are in two very different lines of business, both have one characteristic in common. They are owned and operated by entrepreneurs who are passionate about what they do.

Roberto Sinopoli opened his first salon 19 years ago with his mother and later branched out into running a school for stylists. Verde Salon is the result of Roberto having leveraged that experience in its planning, design and construction.  

When asked “Why Bridgwater Centre?”  Roberto’s response was, “community." His vision and that of the Neighbourhoods of Bridgwater are similar and he wanted to be a part of its future.

Just say ‘cheese’ at G. J. Andrews

The chalk board reads “Over 120 Cheeses, Try One of Our New Cheeses” but, if truth be told, 120 is on the low side and you can actually try any of their cheeses — new or old.  

Where is this mecca for cheese? None other than G.J. Andrews Food and Wine Shoppe, at 384 Academy Rd.

With over 30 years of experience behind him, George Andrews has succeeded in cultivating a very loyal clientele by offering a variety of unique, quality products, of which cheese is just one. And, it is delivered with the high level of service that they have come to expect.

Whether it is Camembert, Stilton or Oka, the selection is impressive and could be daunting if not for the team behind the counter. They are open to questions and quick to offer a tasting to help your selection process.

Spring cleanup is just around the corner

As the snow melts and the days get longer, preparations for summer begin. Whether it is cleaning up the after affects of a Winnipeg winter or planning a garden, there is work to be done.

For businesses such as Shelmerdine Garden Centre, that work has long been underway. Located in Headingley, Shelmerdine held its spring open house on March 25. As is often the case, it bustled with activity but the real draw for me was an invite by a friend to join her on a tour of their greenhouses.

And what a tour it was.

We explored all 22 of them and that didn’t include those open to the public. Stephanie, our tour guide, patiently explained the planning and work involved in getting 300,000 annuals and 10,000 perennials ready for spring planting season.

Three women who are bold for change

Have you ever met someone who was not what you expected? Perhaps you were pleasantly surprised by their demeanour or that, for whatever reason, they were instantly likeable.

Well, Rosa Nucci of Nucci’s Gelati, is one such person.

We recently met Rosa when we stopped by to pick up some gelato that was highly recommended by friends. She was the only one working the counter, which would likely not be a surprise to any of her regulars. After all, she has been working the counter for almost 50 years.

This is where I will take a brief detour to plug International Women’s Day with its theme of #BeBoldForChange. A call to action in the move for gender equality, it’s about creating awareness and challenging each and everyone of us to step up to the plate and be a change leader.

Plenty of good trail-walking – even in winter

As much as it is disappointing not to have the trails of Bridgwater cleared through winter, we are privileged to have a number of maintained trails very close by.

One of these is the Harte Trail, which is part of the Trans Canada Trail. At 6.5 kilometres long, it follows an old railway line through Charleswood from Shaftesbury to the Perimeter Highway. It also connects to both FortWhyte Alive and the Assiniboine Forest at one end and the Headingley Grand Trunk Trail at the other.

Parking is available at Marj Edey Park, at 4230 Ridgewood Ave. in Charleswood and you can find parking on the nearby roads as well.

Even on a cold winter afternoon, such as the day we chose to explore, the trail was full of life. We met up with runners, walkers of all ages, and even a very hardy cyclist.  Dogs were also well represented.   

Winter’s here, whether you like it or not

It happens every year whether we like it or not. Granted, some years earlier than others but it still happens, and this year is no exception. A little delayed in its arrival, but thankfully it has arrived and not a moment too soon — after all, the big guy and his helpers are about to make an appearance.

I am, of course, referring to winter and all that it brings. You know what I mean — the snow, the ice and yes, even the cold.

No, I am not crazy! Take a moment and think about how pretty everything is when covered in a sparking white blanket. Step outside, close your eyes and breathe. The air is fresh and it is crisp. And don’t forget to look up. Isn’t it amazing how blue the sky is when the temperature drops?

There is something to be said about the change of seasons and winter in particular.  

Give the gift of experience this year

We have entered a new stage of life.  It’s the one when you realize that ‘stuff’ is just ‘stuff’ and I have to admit we have a lot of it.  

Sure we have things around the house that hold meaning — memories of trips and/or special people but we also have a lot of other stuff.

It could be said that this stage is age-related but I would argue otherwise — one has only to peruse Kijiji or drive by one thousands of garage sales held around the city each year. Everyone has stuff they want to get rid of and that is what makes giving the gift of an experience something to consider, especially at this time of year.

So, on that note, some suggestions:

Routines and comfort

If you have ever been to an all inclusive resort, you are likely familiar with the common morning ritual of claiming your spot.  If you don’t admit to having done it yourself, perhaps you know others who have.

The technique is simple. One hops out of bed first thing in the morning (the most successful do so by 7:30 a.m. or thereabouts), grabs their towels, used magazines, and/or anything of little value, and rushes out to claim their lounge chairs for the day. By placing the objects on them, you have announced to the world, that the chairs are yours — at least for that day.

And then, you walk away. Perhaps back to bed. Maybe for breakfast. And you can do so knowing that your pool and/or beach spot is there for you.

I admit to having been guilty of it on many a trip. It actually becomes a routine and the funny thing is that routines are what one often tries to rid themselves of while on vacation. To top it off, many resorts don’t do anything to stop the practice.

Assiniboine Park a true gift in all seasons

Every major city has its green spaces.  Vancouver has Stanley Park, Mount Royal graces Montreal with its presence and Toronto is known for High Park.  

Assiniboine Park, of course, is Winnipeg's gem, which, according to the travel site escapehere.com, is one of Canada’s best.  

That's certainly not news to anyone who calls or has ever called Winnipeg home.

Elizabeth MacFarlane, currently visiting from Ottawa would agree. She fondly recalls walking to the park with her sister Mary (a current resident) from the corner of Portage Avenue and Main Street in 1952.  They chose it as a destination as they loved the outdoors. They would simply wander around the park before returning home.

Shopping ‘strategically’ at the Mall of America

Mom was in town and that meant a weekend trip to the Minneapolis area for some shopping. I'm not a huge fan of shopping; I consider myself more of a strategic shopper, in that I usually only do it when there is something that I ‘need’.  

Above all else, we had to remember that we have been trying to reduce the amount of stuff in and around the house. With that in mind, we struck a deal. For every item purchased, two similar ones had to leave the house. One in — two out!

With our itinerary planned and deal done, off we went.  

After an uneventful drive, we made it to our hotel, the Four Points by Sheraton on Lyndale Avenue, in good time, despite a quick detour to the Albertville Premium Outlets. Located in Richfield, Minn., the Four Points tends to be our go-to hotel as it is right off I-494 (the ring road around the Twin Cities) and is just a short drive from our preferred shops and restaurants.

Nothing better than a summertime road trip

After travelling 6,549 km across 12 states and three provinces, I can still say “we love road trips!”  

On our most recent adventure, laughter and lessons were de rigueur.

There was almost too much to see in such a short period of time. From the Prairies to Vermont’s mountains and the Atlantic coast. From Montreal and Ottawa to the smaller communities that dot the northern Ontario route along Lake Superior. The landscape was awe-inspiring.

Sadly, we lost count of the number of carcasses on the interstates. From the countless deer and fawns to raccoons and what appeared to be a black bear. Interestingly, there were very few on the route through Northern Ontario. Could it be that our wildlife is smarter and knows to avoid the road?

This year’s Bridgwater bunny battle is on

Debbie 1 – Bunny 0.  Yes, it is still early in the season and it ain’t over until it's over, but I am feeling good.  It’s going to be our year. Victory, as they say, is within our reach.

What makes me so confident?  

Well, to begin with, I am not the same person I was in 2015, when the score was the opposite. I have learned a thing or two since then.

First, never underestimate the enemy.

The geese are back and sharing lessons with us

They are back — on the lakes, in the parks, in your neighbours’ yards and yes; at times, even on the roads. They are everywhere.  

I am, of course, referring to the Canada geese that I know many think are a nuisance but you have to admit they are also fascinating creatures which can teach us a thing or two.

Those not keen on taking lessons from a goose should perhaps stop reading now.

What makes geese so interesting?  

Am I a coffee snob or a coffee junkie?

I have often wondered whether there was such a thing as a coffee snob and if so, how one earned the title.

Could it be someone who only uses a certain blend? Drinks only from a certain mug? Brews coffee only one particular way?

You would be right in thinking I am describing myself. I have come to the realization that I am fussy when it comes to coffee.

I don’t like to drink out of styrofoam cups. I am particular about my mugs. I only use a French press — except of course when entertaining, when I use my preferred coffeemaker. I also have to admit that I am partial to a good cappuccino.

There are plenty of outdoor spaces close to home

As February approached, we gave ourselves two objectives for the month. The first was to check out the Great Ice Show at the Forks and the second to attend Festival du Voyageur.

I have to admit that we failed miserably on both counts. Why?

Well, work happened, life happened and I am sure that, given more time, I could come up with a few more excuses.

What it really boils down to is that we procrastinated and then simply ran out of time.   I guess that there is always next year!

Life is a quest for the perfect churro

We have vacationed in Mexico many times over the years but it was only three years ago that we discovered the wonder that is the churro. 

Some of you may be raising your eyebrows, wondering what makes our discovery so important, while others may be wondering what I'm on about. Bear with me, all will become clear.

For the uninitiated, a churro is basically a deep-fried pastry that can be served in a variety of ways.  I personally love the simple version — sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon (definitely low in calories).

In all honesty, I can say my fascination with churros is not so much about indulging a sweet tooth than it is about the journey to find the perfect churro — regardless of where that may be. It could be said the churro is really the metaphor for our travels.

A journey to the home of L.L. Bean

Do you love the L.L. Bean catalogue? Did you know that you can actually visit the company?

Forget the catalogue and grab a flight to Montreal. Rent a car and hit the road for New England as your journey to Freeport, Maine, the mecca of L.L. Bean, begins.  

The road trip itself is as interesting as the destination. We've done it quite a few times but recently did it in winter for the first time.

There are a number of routes you can take, depending on how much time you have. With only a few days’ vacation, we travelled through Quebec’s Eastern Townships with a planned crossing at Stanstead, Que. If time is not an issue, it is a region well worth exploring.

The three stages of Christmas

It’s happening. Christmas is just around the corner and I have proof. On a recent walk we came across hoof prints in the snow. Santa is doing his dry runs and I know it!

He's checking out where they can take a break if needed or simply where to land when the big day arrives. Because, as we know, not all roofs are safe or large enough to accommodate a sleigh, Rudolph and his eight friends and, of course, the big man.

All right, I admit it — I am definitely in the excitement stages. Of the three stages as I see them, this is the one that shouts “I love Christmas."

I believe in Santa Claus, in dreams and in the magic that they bring.

Appreciating the scents of the seasons

This may be an odd thing to say, but I believe that each season comes with its own unique smells.  

Some may be more pleasant than others and, of course, what is pleasant to one, may be an obnoxious odour to another.

Just think about it.

Spring follows what is often a long, cold and very dusty winter.  (Yes, I find Winnipeg winters dusty!) In the early days of spring, you might find yourself cracking open a window, even if for a few brief minutes. Maybe you head out in the car, roll down your window and simply breathe in that fresh air.

A recipe box full of remembrances

My recipe box is disorganized and overflowing with pages torn from magazines and printouts from the internet intermixed with cards that have been handwritten over the years.

In many ways it is more of a memory box, as quite a few of the recipes are reminders of special events and/or special people. They come with a story.

Lately, I have been reminded of two of those people who have touched my life, no matter how briefly.

The first, Gertrude, was a woman I met a number of years ago while visiting family in Boston. Our paths only crossed once or twice over the years but her smile has always stayed with me and she generously shared it with those around her. Sadly, Gertrude recently passed away.

Making a list of Winnipeg things-to-do

New Year’s is not the only time of year for talk of goals and goal setting.  

In fact, I would suggest that you might hear such chat at any given time of year —  talk of bucket lists and/or such things as 50 by 50 or 30 by 30, which are basically lists of goals people want to achieve by a certain age.

Since moving here in 2013, I too have been working on an informal list of sorts. That list is about Winnipeg and experiencing what makes it unique.

Why would I do such a thing? Well, the answer is simple.  

Saturday at Pineridge Hollow

It felt like we were heading into the middle of nowhere.  

A 40-minute drive (give or take), dirt roads and dust, a few cars and not much else. Where were we going, I wondered. I had been assured that we were heading to a popular restaurant for a Saturday morning breakfast however I was beginning to have my doubts. That is, until we arrived at Pineridge Hollow.

Located near Birds Hill Provincial Park in Oakbank, Pineridge Hollow was a definitely a pleasant surprise. This is, of course, where I could begin to describe the setting however I would be hard pressed to do it justice.

Instead, I will simply quote a line from their website. “Our turn-of-the-century style carriage house sits amongst six acres of gardens, ponds, flowers, and peaceful property for you to roam and enjoy.”

Making peace with the daily commute

Ah…the daily commute. Love it or hate it, most of us have to endure it in one form or another.   

Notice my use of the word ‘endure’? That's how I've thought of commuting over the years. Whether by public transit, car or bike, it can be a stressful ride extending what has already been a long and often hectic day.  Even in the summer with fewer cars on the road. Why is that? Oh yes, there is always construction to contend with — but don’t get me started on that.

One would think the Winnipeg commute would be a piece of cake, especially when compared to some of our larger cities but that's not so.

It’s all relative. I have therefore found a way to make peace with it.

You needn’t go far to find something to do

Do you have a few hours on your hands and not sure what to do? Well, an afternoon ride to FortWhyte Alive might just be the answer.

We recently took advantage of the early summer weather to do just that.  

Out came the bikes and off we went. Not only was it a great day to check out what the nature centre had to offer but it was an opportunity to explore the new Kenaston path connecting Bridgwater Forest to Whyte Ridge.

From there it was a relatively short ride down Scurfield Boulevard, Columbia Drive and then west on McGillivray Boulevard.  Before long, we were there. (As a ‘heads up’, you have to be very careful when crossing McGillivray, as there is no crosswalk.)  

Ah yes… the joys of spring cleaning

Anyone who knows me, knows how much I love cleaning — not!  But I have to admit that sweeping out the garage and hosing it and the driveway down can feel almost cathartic at this time of the year.

Close your eyes and imagine what that feels like... you grab the garden hose, attach it to the tap, open the spigot, adjust the nozzle to “jet” and just let loose. It’s as if a weight has been lifted along with the mounds of sand, gravel, and dust.

This is called spring cleaning in Winnipeg.

Now, add some dogs to the mix and spring cleaning takes on a whole new meaning. Many a dog owner knows what I mean. Each spring, one invariably finds the odd 'gift' that was missed or was covered by snow before it could be collected.  

Boil water advisory caught many off-guard

Our recent experience with Winnipeg’s boil water advisory could be considered a wake-up call in emergency preparedness.  

Had it been a test, we (meaning me) would likely have failed. With the experience of the 1998 Montreal ice storm behind me, I should have known better.  As I see it, we had two points of failure:First; we had an insufficient amount of bottled water in the house and second, we let a wee amount of panic and worry set in.

Despite the fact boiling water was an option, we still joined many others in the quest for bottled water. There was no immediate sense of urgency but that changed as Tuesday evening rolled into Tuesday night and I found myself on the verge of hopping on the “what if...” rollercoaster after having seen the empty shelves in many a store.  

What if the boil water advisory goes on for days? What if we don't find any water? What if…?

You should consider winterizing Fido

We knew it would happen. Once again winter has arrived with a vengeance. It happens every year and yet we are often unprepared and have to be reminded about dressing appropriately for the cold.

Even Environment Canada weather alerts include recommendations on how to do just that. But what about Fido? Your dog can suffer from the cold and ultimately frostbite.

So how should he be dressed to help him handle the cold? To begin, he needs you and I to be responsible and that means asking ourselves some basic questions. For example:

• What type of coat does he have? Long or short? The needs of a husky, for example, differ from those of a greyhound.• How much does he weigh?• How active is he? How much time will he be spending outdoors? In other words, what types of activities is he involved in? Is a run-out-and-have-a-quick-pee kind of pooch or does he prefer some serious socializing at the dog park?• Has he ever worn a coat before?

How do you make friends in a new community?

Getting to know your neighbours in a community where many drive in and out of the relative warmth of their warm garages can be a challenge, especially during the winter months.

Please, let a convenience store be in our future

How is it that you always run out of milk at inconvenient times? Just before or after regular store hours or on holidays when options are limited.

When it's happened to me, I've been heard putting it down to either poor planning or Murphy’s Law.

Regardless of where the blame rests, it can be a serious situation, especially if morning coffee is a staple and one cannot drink it without milk. That is the situation in our house and, given that it seems to happen fairly often, knowing where to buy a bag of milk is an important ‘must know’.

Since I moved here from Montreal in 2013, my quest for that proverbial bag of milk has even seen me go through the McDonald’s drive-thru and order milk, then declining anything to go with it. I'm sure that provided the staff with a few chuckles.

Crosswalks, roundabouts and common courtesy

Infrastructure, road repairs and potholes are definitely hot-topic problems that can be fixed through spending.

But what about common courtesy? How does one go about fixing the lack thereof?

It's one thing when someone doesn’t hold a door open for you or allows an elevator to close just as you are about to step in. It's something else when you're walking around a residential neighbourhood that brands itself as pedestrian-friendly and you find yourself challenged to cross the street.

Now I am not suggesting that Bridgwater Forest has a lot of traffic — in reality it doesn’t.

Living the dream in Bridgwater Forest

This past July, I had what I would call “my two minutes of fame” when I was interviewed by local TV news program. for a report on the Manitoba Building and Construction Trades Council’s proposal to place a moratorium on the building of new developments.

The reporter wanted to hear about the draw of the suburbs.

I am not advocating a position on the proposal. I am advocating for choice. While house shopping in 2013, we worked with a wish list and looked at almost 50 houses, both old and new, in a number of neighbourhoods, both old and new.

It was challenging, to say the least, as our wish list was a blend of our wants and needs with those of our dogs. Admittedly, their needs figured quite prominently. Luckily, we happen to enjoy the outdoors and our new home in Bridgwater Forest hit the mark with one major exception — lack of mature trees on the property.