Courtesy of Deanna Bailey

Real Estate Agent

deanna.bailey@exprealty.com (403) 805-4359 • deannabailey.exprealty.com

2026 | ISSUE 8

BEYOND THE PHOTO WALL

Many homes have a wall of family photos updated each year with school pictures, family trips, camping adventures and Christmas cards. Over time, the memories grow, but the wall space does not. Using a digital photo frame could be the solution. Share both new and old memories without the clutter by going digital. Digital photo frames let you display hundreds of images in a single frame, rotating through old favourites and new moments with ease. They’re a simple way to keep your photos visible without covering every wall in your home. Digital displays don’t fade in sunlight and rearranging your collection is simple. You can add new photos instantly from your phone instead of finding another frame, another nail and another empty spot on the wall. Setup is usually straightforward: download the app, connect to Wi-FI and select the photos you want to share. Many digital photo frames also allow family members to contribute photos remotely, making them a great choice for staying connected. Now, digital picture frames are the most straightforward and user-friendly way to display photos. There are alternatives. With some basic tech skills, you can use a tablet and slideshow or set your photos up as a television screensaver.

Muffins

APPLE CINNAMON

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 4 medium apples, peeled, cored and diced For the topping • 2 tablespoons melted butter • ¼ cup granulated sugar • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 3½ cups all-purpose flour • 1½ cups granulated sugar • 4 teaspoons baking powder • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon • 1 teaspoon salt • 2 large eggs • ⅔ cup vegetable oil • 1 cup milk

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°f (190°c). Line or lightly grease 18 muffin cups. 2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon and salt. 3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, milk and vanilla. 4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. 5. Fold in the apples until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. 6. Fill each muffin cup about three-quarters full. 7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden. 8. Brush the tops with melted butter, then sprinkle sugar and cinnamon.

DON’T LET ANYONE ROB YOU OF YOUR IMAGINATION, YOUR CREATIVITY OR YOUR CURIOSITY.”

MAE JEMISON PHYSICIST & ASTRONAUT

GET IN THE GAME WITH PICKLEBALL

Pickleball has quickly become a popular sport across Canada, gaining traction over the last number of years. Pickleball is affordable, easy to learn and doesn’t require expensive equipment, making it an easy choice for people looking for an outdoor activity they can enjoy with friends and family. Pickleball combines tennis, badminton and table tennis on a smaller court, using a paddle and a lightweight ball. Usually played in doubles, it’s a social and physical activity. If you’re interested in trying pickleball, check your local recreation centre or community association. Pickleball courts are now appearing in parks, recreation centres, schools and public spaces across Canadian communities. Many offer beginner lessons, drop-in sessions and equipment rentals, making it easy to get started and join a growing community. If you’re interested in watching pickleball, then you’re in luck. Canada’s national pickleball league (CNPL) has eight teams from Vancouver to Montreal playing professionally nationwide.

EASY COTTAGE DECOR IDEAS

Enjoy the charm of cottage-style living without needing a lakeside cabin. Bring the relaxed feel of cottage living into your home, even if it’s in the bustling downtown of Edmonton or Toronto. This cottage-cozy look can be created with simple materials, textures and a mix of natural elements and cozy patterns. Cottage-style décor brings cozy comfort to your home with soft textures and complementary patterns. Start with natural wood finishes, soft whites and subtle colours to create a calm backdrop for daily living. Mixing patterns, such as florals, gingham and plaid, adds visual interest while keeping the space warm and welcoming. Add woven baskets, framed embroidery, cross-stitch, paintings, linen cushions, vintage plates, antique finds, handcrafted art and ceramic accessories to introduce texture. Houseplants, wildflowers, branches or ferns collected on a weekend walk bring life indoors. One of the best parts of cottage style is that nothing must match perfectly. As a result, mixing family heirlooms with newer pieces creates a home that feels collected over the years.

SUDOKU Squares Fill this 9x9 grid using numbers 1 through 9 so that every row, column, and 3x3 section contains each number only once.

What do you call a pen that’s always on time? “Write” on schedule! What do trees use to browse the internet? Root-Er connections! Where do sick boats go? To the dock Why did the chef get married to

the baker? It was loave at first sight!

SOLUTION

WHAT A WALKABILITY SCORE CAN TELL HOMEBUYERS When searching for a home, most buyers focus on the property itself. However, a neighbourhood’s walkability score can provide valuable insight into what everyday life might look like after moving in. A walkability score measures how easy it is to reach common destinations such as grocery stores, restaurants, parks, schools and transit on foot. Higher scores generally indicate that daily errands can be completed without relying on a vehicle while lower scores suggest driving may be necessary for most activities. For many Canadians, a walkable neighbourhood offers more than convenience. It can mean shorter commutes, reduced transportation costs and more opportunities to enjoy local businesses and green spaces. Families may appreciate nearby schools and parks while retirees often value easy access to essential services. A walkability score shouldn’t be the only factor when choosing a home. Safety, future development plans and personal lifestyle preferences also play important roles. Some buyers prefer the quieter atmosphere of suburban or rural communities, even if they require more driving. Before making an offer, spend time exploring the neighbourhood in person. Walk the streets, visit nearby amenities and imagine your daily routine. A home’s location can shape your lifestyle just as much as its floor plan making walkability an important feature worth considering.

(403) 805-4359 deanna.bailey@exprealty.com deannabailey.exprealty.com

NATURAL PRIVACY WITH HEDGES

Grow your own privacy with a living fence. A hedge can add privacy while making your yard feel more welcoming. Unlike a fence, a hedge changes with the seasons, provides shade and creates shelter for birds and pollinators such as bees and butterflies. A well-planned hedge may also help reduce street noise and block winter winds. In snowy areas, it can catch blowing snow before it reaches your driveway or walkway. Attractive landscaping can also improve a home’s first impression for visitors and potential buyers. Some popular options include emerald cedar and yew, arborvitae shrubs, juniper, boxwood and laurel, as well as gorgeous flowering deciduous shrubs like lilac and viburnum. Before planting, think long term. Choose species that match your climate, sunlight and space. Plan for the hedge’s full size. Leave enough room for mature growth so roots and branches don’t interfere with sidewalks, driveways, property lines or neighbouring gardens. Visit a local nursery for hedge varieties suited to your region.

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