At the end of 2023, I moved back to Sherwood Park, Alberta — and it truly brings me joy.
This city has always held a special place in my heart. I lived here in the 80s and 90s, gathering both sweet and difficult memories. Returning now feels like rediscovering a treasured part of myself I didn’t realize I had missed so deeply.
When my health threw a little tantrum, I thought, Why not apply for an independent senior apartment? So I did — and when the manager from Heartland Housing called to say a suite was available, I practically did a happy dance. It felt like winning the lottery. I settled in, ready for a fresh chapter.
Compared to many people, I’m a bit of a health superhero — no cape required.
There are two other buildings nearby where cooking and cleaning are taken care of for you. I kept those in mind for the future, but for a while I was perfectly content in my cozy little home.
My suite faced east, overlooking the courtyard. Every morning felt beautiful, and I was grateful for the warmth and welcome of that space. The social room was large, the smell of morning coffee drifting from the library, and even the small exercise room reminded us that staying active is part of celebrating life.
And in January 2026, life nudged me into a new chapter — I moved into an assisted‑living lodge. Yahoo! No more grocery shopping, no more cooking, and best of all, no more long stretches of loneliness or boredom. It’s a different setting, yes, but one that gives me the support I need while still letting me enjoy my independence. I’m settling in, finding my rhythm, and appreciating the comfort, safety, and care that now surround me.
A few months ago, I started blogging again and rediscovered my passion for writing. With winter arriving, the cold keeps my long walks on pause until spring. My doctor’s office is two miles away — I walked there twice in one week and again the next. After that adventure, I felt like I’d run a marathon. Still, some days I like to test my limits just a little.
Many seniors choose not to live in senior homes, but after living alone for many years, this decision came naturally to me. Working as a Health Care Aide, I’ve seen families struggle with difficult choices for their parents. It’s like a complicated “Choose Your Own Adventure,” and I want to spare my kids from that stress. So I took charge and made my own decision. No board games needed — at least not yet.
I share pieces of my life, my travels, my inspirations, and encouragement for those facing domestic abuse. I gained strength because I had to. I learned from my mistakes. I found joy by walking through sadness. Life has taught me many lessons, and I carry them forward with purpose.