Winnipeg Beach

The long weekend gave us the opportunity to go the distance and spend it somewhere outside the city. So off we go to Winnipeg Beach. Just more than an hour from Winnipeg. Easy access, free to the public, not too far away from the city. 

There were a lot of tables and benches and parking space. Although they don't have barbeque pits, so you have to bring your own. Outdoor shower, restrooms and portalets are plenty. Ample parking space is available. But be early because people flock to the beach during summer. And there were a lot at that time. Some of the restos are open but with restrictions due to Covid 19. 

The beach is a little murky and there are signs that parasites may be present at this time of the year so swim at your own risk. Life guards are present and friendly and nice and alert. There were staff who put away trash regularly. 

As with any other parks, respect is important -- respect to other visitors, locals, staff, environment and animals. Make sure your trash is properly stowed and tables are wiped down.

Exploring our new home: Manitoba, Canada

It's been a while since I updated this blog. Life happens and so many things have come and go. Now with Covid 19, everyone has little choice, but to stay mostly at home. But occasional opportunities come into your life, to explore home. And when I say home, home now for us is Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada! We've migrated a couple of years ago and we're now settled in. Still with intermittent surprises, dramas, chaos, here and there but nothing we can't handle. 

So off to a new start. And off to a new place to explore. 

We had a day trip to visit Steep Rock Manitoba last August 15. It was around 236 km from Winnipeg or around 2.5 driving hours. Road condition is just right. We took MB Highway 6 and it was one of the most relaxing driving experiences so far. We passed by small towns but all flat grounds since Manitoba is a prairie land. The weather is perfect although the wind was kinda strong but which helped in our grilling (used charcoal so no need to fan it). 

It is nestled in the RM of Grahamdale and along the North-East shore of Lake Manitoba. During the 30s, the Canada Cement Lafarge Co. opened their quarry pit here. Located on the beautiful shores of Lake Manitoba, Steep Rock offers the most amazing sunsets, breathtaking views and fantastic cliffs and rock formations. 

You can visit their beach park and the limestone cliffs. The Steep Rock Beach Park is open daily to the general public from 9am-10pm. Since this is a provincial park, you have to register and pay minimal fees which is so worth it. The crystal clear shallow water is perfect for kids and for lounging. Parasailing, boating, kite-flying, camping, picnics are perfect especially during the August month. They have a beach resto though we haven't tried it. During this time, they are open but with restrictions. They have barbeque fire pits so you cam grill all you want. Just be careful with the fire. There are working outdoor shower area, washrooms, portalets and ample parking space. Just a warning, there is no signal in the area or you might get one, but super weak signal, so this is a perfect spot to unwind, rest and unplugged. 

Another area to explore is the limestone cliffs. One of the most photographed landmarks in Manitoba, the Cliffs of Steep Rock are made of limestone. And the thousand of years wave action has molded them into sheer drops, caves and other geological formations. The rocks are also a habitat for the Crocus. The cliffs at Steep Rock are free to visit and explore and they have a small cafe bar. You can also visit the trails there. 

And just like any other place, kindly respect the locals, the places, the culture. Leave only footprints and good memories there.

After 3 years, I am soo back!

The nightmare is gone. 

The good dream is back. 

But don't get your hopes high. 

Some days, I will be MIA, but most days, I will try to show up. 

That's life. 

When you feel sad, you cry. 

When you feel happy, you smile. 

When you feel tired, you rest. 

When you feel like you don't want to show up, you hide. 

When you want to pause, you stop. 

Be true to yourself, God will not hate you for that. 

When you want to start, reset and begin again. 

So now, I am starting again. Happy reading!