22 years ago, on this weekend I moved to Calgary from my big hometown Toronto, Ontario.  I traveled to Calgary for business and fell in love with the energy. And just like that I found myself moving away from everything I knew to explore all that is Calgary.

It wasn’t easy at first being away from my family and friends. Everything was so new, and it seemed at times I was drowning in all that was foreign to me. But I embraced all this western culture has to offer (even country music and two stepping) and grew with the ever-growing population which stands now at 1.5 million from 900K when I arrived. 

The Alberta sunny skies brings me happiness. I made friends that are very dear to my heart.  Professionally, I have grown and experienced all that makes work not a job but my life because I enjoy it so much. 

Banff is in my backyard which I visit frequently. People travel from all over the world to seek the fresh mountain air and to experience this small town’s charm.  To ski fresh powder with vista points that would bring most to their knees is what attracts travel enthusiasts. I traveled to Banff this week to get my fill of this wonder and again did not disappoint.  The pandemic makes Banff seem different with all the mask wearing however the energy and splendour keeps it intact and keeps me craving for more.

In April 1999, as we drove into the city the weather was warm and tulips were sprouting from the dry Alberta soil. People were wearing shorts which is a common sight now that I’ve lived here for so long. In the first sign of nice weather Calgarians are not afraid to bring out their summer shorts and embrace the cool air and enjoy a cold pint on a patio. To this day though, tulips represents newness and the sign of good things to come. A friend of mine bought me tulips this week and I’m happy to say that I feel that there is newness in the air and still anticipating great things from myself and this city.

I applaud you Calgary as I celebrate 22 years in this city, I now call home.