As spring moves towards summer, I am grateful for the natural rhythms of life that keep us grounded. The sound of lawnmowers reminds us that life goes on, despite what changes come. The grass still grows. Spring flowers have come and gone only to make way for summer flowers and the bees that indulge in the nectar.
The most glaring silver lining for me in this time of COVID is the profound increase of walking within our community. Never have I seen so many people out and about within Highwood. There are faces that I have never seen before, yet, through friendly, distanced conversation, there is a realization that these people have lived here for years. It is my hope, as restrictions are eased, that people continue to practice active living within our community. The vibrance that comes from our sidewalks, front steps and green spaces lends to a vitality within our streets that is comforting. And why shouldn’t people enjoy walking within Highwood? Unlike new neighbourhoods of cookie-cutter houses void of trees and birds, Highwood is a refreshing place to explore with its established trees and unique homes. We are blessed to make this our home. With the anticipation of eased restrictions, people will undoubtedly look forward to heading afar to get away from the familiar that they have been forced to endure. However, I hope that through this time at home, we can hold on to the simple pleasures that are right outside our front doors: walking our streets and sharing a smile and conversation with neighbours, utilizing the fields and hockey rink for catch, exercise, basketball, pickleball, etcetera. And, of course, we keep our fingers crossed that we will be able to indulge in the newly renovated pool that sits at the center of our community.
Keep well and happy.
Mike Neufeld
Facilities Director
Highwood Community Association
