We sat down with residents Nirmal & Balbir Sandhu, and listened to their story on what brought them to University District. They shared with us how they’ve made U/D home and the ways it has enhanced their daily lives.

Nirmal and Balbir have always had a strong focus on family. They called Winnipeg home for most of their lives – since 1964. They got married in Winnipeg, they raised their two children, and laid their roots there. Balbir (Mr. Sandhu) worked as an electrical engineer with Manitoba Hydro for close to 50 years. His wife Nirmal (Mrs. Sandhu) holds a Bachelor of Education, and she first started working at Manitoba Telephone System, then for many years she taught English as a Second Language, as well as teaching driver education in schools. 

Eventually, their children grew up, attended university, and started families of their own,  both settling in Northwest Calgary. Their daughter Dr. Preet Sandhu works as a Pediatrician at the Alberta Children’s Hospital, while their son Dr. Manjot Sandhu is an Anesthesiologist. 

Mr. and Mrs. Sandhu had a home in Varsity Village, which they used when they would go back and forth between being in Winnipeg and Calgary, but when a progressive neurological disorder began impacting Balbir’s health, the family decided it was time to all be together permanently in Calgary.

Mrs. Sandhu learned about Maple (by Truman) and Cambridge Manor (by The Brenda Strafford Foundation) by driving through University District with her son in 2018. She liked the idea of being able to have her own space, while being able to support her husband when the time came that he would need more care. They purchased immediately, and with excitement watched the building take shape as it was constructed. 

Maple is a 55+ Independent Seniors residential building developed by Truman suited to older adults with an active and social lifestyle who are seeking a community rich in services and experiences. 

Cambridge Manor is a continuing care site owned and operated by The Brenda Strafford Foundation, offering Assisted Living, Long-Term Care and Memory Care for seniors. The two buildings, conveniently connected by a +30 walkway, were designed with the vision to better support seniors to age in place within the University District. The unique concept enables convenient access to services and amenities to maintain independence as residents age, creating an environment that supports families with different care needs to remain connected, even as their care needs may continue to change over time.

When Mr. Sandhu experienced a stroke, the family knew they would need dedicated care for him more quickly than first anticipated. Thankfully, Mrs. Sandhu could move into their unit in Maple, while Mr. Sandhu started receiving care at Cambridge Manor. 

The move was a big change for them both, leaving the city they had known for decades, and moving from a seven-bedroom home to a two-bedroom condominium. But the welcoming nature of Maple and Cambridge Manor made the adjustment much easier. She says, “Everyone is so close. The residents in Maple are very friendly, and it’s very quiet. I can walk to so many places and see my husband multiple times a day.”

A unique aspect of Maple and Cambridge Manor is how they are physically connected by a +30 walkway, providing easy access between the two spaces. Mrs. Sandhu likes to joke that, “I feel like my husband and I still live together. It’s like we’re in a big palace, and that we occupy two different wings.”

Today, with regular visits from her children and grandchildren, the family can spend time together, both in Mrs. Sandhu’s unit in Maple and with Mr. Sandhu in Cambridge Manor.  

Their daughter Preet regularly stops in before or after her shift at the Alberta Children’s Hospital, while their son Manjot exercises nearby at Orangetheory fitness, regularly dropping off groceries for his mom. The grandchildren love visiting with their “Naniji” at the nearby playground, which is just a short stroll away for Mrs. Sandhu. 

While COVID-19 adjusted everyone’s lives, Mrs. Sandhu has appreciated the chance to walk on her own in University District, meeting new people and enjoying hobbies. The surrounding pathways are cleared in the winter months, giving her a sense of safety and plenty of independence. She can walk to her daughter’s home in Varsity Village, and enjoys dining along University Avenue. 

Mrs. Sandhu is comforted knowing that her husband is in good hands at Cambridge Manor. She says, “The care is excellent – the people are nice, and they really take care of everyone. They truly want to help, and they are always respectful and kind. The space itself is beautiful – there are large rooms, big windows and wide hallways. It’s very well structured and organized.” 

Moving to a new city and new home can be difficult at any age and stage of life, particularly when the health of a loved one is impacted. The Sandhus recognize that so many are facing challenging decisions about how to best take care of aging family members. Mrs. Sandhu has some wise advice. She says, “The sooner you can make a decision about where you can live and care for each other, the better it is. It takes time to adjust to a new environment for the whole family, but know that comfort, care and new lifestyle opportunities are ready for you. I feel so comfortable here.” 

With a smile, Mrs. Sandhu shares that she calls her new Calgary home and lifestyle: “The new Nirmal”.

If you don’t have an outdoor space, or you live somewhere like Calgary that has a cooler climate most of the year, you still have the option of creating an urban jungle. Indoor plants have become increasingly popular as a hobby and interior design trend, and for good reason. Caring for plants has shown to support mental health, they purify the air around them, and (if you can keep them alive) they add a unique design element to any room. 

Don’t be intimidated if you’re new to the plant game – we have some helpful tips and tricks for beginners, pet owners, and the more established collectors, plus some 2022 Plant Trends from the experts at Plantation Garden Centre.

Indoor Plants for Beginners

It’s never too late to gain a green thumb! There are lots of plants that are easy to care for, and thrive in any space. Here are our top picks:

• Pothos(Epipremnum aureum)
  • This trailing plant can be hung from the ceiling, placed on high shelves, or trained to grow along banisters. It grows quickly and can be easily propagated by cutting off the end of a vine and placing it in water to root.
• ZZ plant (Zanzibar Gem)
  • This tall, waxy plant can grow in dark spaces. It needs a small amount of water every 1-2 weeks, so you can forget about it for a while and not worry!
• Rubber fig (Ficus elastica)
  • This fig plant has large shiny leaves and can grow very large. Lower light will turn the leaves green, and brighter light will turn them purple. Make sure to wipe the dust off the leaves every couple months to keep it looking healthy.

These plants are happy to be watered weekly, so you can put a reminder in your calendar. Make sure they have lots of drainage (either a hole in the bottom of the pot with a tray underneath, or an inch of pebbles at the bottom to collect the water). They can grow in low light (perfect for North-facing spaces), and will also thrive in bright natural light.

Indoor Plants for Pet Owners

There are many plants that can be poisonous to animals if ingested, or physically dangerous to playful pets (we’re looking at you, cacti!). Luckily, there is also a long list of plants that can peacefully coexist in your space with your furry family. These are some of our favourites:

• Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
  • This plant grows big and lush. Make sure you mist it daily to protect it from Calgary’s dry climate, and ensure the soil stays damp.
• Prayer Plant – Maranta leuconeura
  • This smaller plant has beautifully detailed leaves that curl up at nighttime. It’s a perfect addition to a bookshelf or desk for a splash of colour.
• Spider Plant – Chlorophytum comosum
  • This grass-like plant thrives in bright sun, and produces tons of baby spider plants that can be propagated to grow new plants.

 Indoor Plants for Collectors

If you joined the indoor-plant trend a while back then you probably have a great collection filling your space. Here are a few ways you can continue to maintain your urban jungle. 

• Build a propagation station
  • Fill a shelf or window sill with small bottles to hold cuttings from your plants. Once they’re rooted you can pot them in dirt and add them to your plant collection, sell them, or gift them. Or our favourite – a plant exchange with friends!
• Refresh your pots
  • Check out thrift shops and local boutiques for new pots to house your plants. Consider a pot-swap with your friends for a cost-free option.
• Do some spring cleaning
  • Give your plants a “deep clean” to keep them happy and healthy. Re-pot them with fresh dirt, wipe down the leaves, trim any old leaves or branches off, and feed them with some fertilizer.  

Plant Trends to Look For in 2022 

We asked the plant experts at Plantation Garden Centre what indoor plant trends people might adopt this year, and this is what they shared.

• Easy to Care For Plants

• • • As people start to head back to the office and spend less time at home, plants that are easy to care for are continuing to grow in popularity. There are lots of plants that thrive indoors with very little maintenance, like snake plants, ZZ plants, and succulents.
      

• Colourful and Flowering Plants

• • • Plants with blooms can add a nice pop of color to indoor spaces, especially during the winter months. Check out crotons, orchids, and birds of paradise for some brighter options.
      

• Large Plants

• • • Big plants add a unique design element, and are a great addition to interior spaces. Popular choices include fiddle leaf plants, monsteras, and palms, all of which can grow sky high with proper care!

If you have questions about plant care, or want some help choosing the perfect plant for your urban jungle, make sure to stop by Plantation Garden Centre not too far from U/D.

After two years of leveraging your home for living, work, workouts and more, it’s time for a refresh. Creating a space you love is more important than ever.

Amanda Hamilton, founder and creative director of Amanda Hamilton Interior Design and Palette Archives, is an award winning entrepreneur and Interior Designer based in Calgary. Celebrated for her tenacious entrepreneurial spirit and vibrant persona, Amanda’s bold and unorthodox approach to design and business has made her one of the most sought-after creative personalities in Canada.

We took some time to sit down with Amanda and her team to help us find some of the ways you can spruce up your home workspace.

1. What are some practical ways you can create a productive and dedicated workspace when you’re living in a condominium or small space? 

Amanda: Carve out a space in your home for dedicated work, perhaps it’s in the spare bedroom or office and make it feel different than the rest of your house. Try and close this area off when you are not on “work hours’ ‘ so you aren’t tempted to get up and work after dinner because it’s easy, or take a midday tv break – because it’s there. If you don’t have a dedicated room to work in and work is done from the kitchen table, set your space up so it feels like a work zone during working hours and clean it all up when it’s not work hours. Set boundaries. Keep your house lean and free of clutter – it’s good for the mind and helps segregate work from personal time.

2. A lot of us have been spending substantial time on Zoom and Microsoft Teams meetings. Can you share a couple of examples of how you can repurpose some of your decor to help your home workspace feel fresh again? 

Amanda: Create a dedicated space for these where you can create a nice vignette in the background so your viewers have something engaging to look at that also may be a personal nod to yourself. Sometimes just rearranging your existing belongings makes a space feel fresh again.

3. What are your best budgeting tips when re-doing a home office space?

Amanda: The nice thing about a working environment is that the best way to work is clutter free! Less is more here but it should still feel comfortable. Ensure you have a few cabinets, bins, or containers to put away unused items. Ensure you have a good source of light and a comfortable chair – aside from this you shouldn’t really need much!

QUICK TIP: Want to add a flair to your space? Pick up a new plant from your favourite local plant shop, or download an inspirational quote from Pinterest and add it into a frame! These little changes can have a big impact on your space and mood.

It’s Family Day weekend. We’re sharing some inspiration on ways to have fun with those who mean the most to us.  Now is the perfect time to press “play” – check out these ideas for fun, safe activities that your family can enjoy together

Indoor Fun!

Step Into the Classroom – If you and your family are looking for something to do during Calgary’s colder weeks, the Clever Daycare classes are a must. Their Emergent Curriculum ensures that learning is directed by children and is in line with their needs and interests. With more than eight classes to choose from, Clever Daycare U/D will have something to please all of your kiddos!

Parents can also rest easy knowing that Clever goes above and beyond when it comes to safety. From equipping their centres with programmed access cards and security cameras, to finger jam preventers and heated sidewalks, they’ve done everything to reassure you that your child will be in safe hands. For class times, schedule and more information please contact them at 403-474-4157.

Celebrate the Arts at Jubilations Junior: Motel Transylvania  – A production written for kids, and a meal designed with kids in mind. Join in for a fun-filled morning of laughter, music and food! Prices include a 2-act musical comedy for kids and a 3-course lunch.

Visit TELUS Spark – TELUS Spark’s latest exhibit, RESCUE, is one that will get the whole family excited. Learn how our frontline heroes battle forest fires, make mountain rescues and much more. What better way to spend time together than with these interactive hands-on exhibits. 

Have a family game night – There is nothing quite like an old-fashioned game night to bring out the competitive side in your loved ones. Stock-up on everyone’s favourite snacks at Save-On Foods in U/D for a fun night in.

Outdoor Fun!

Feed The Fish at Alberta’s Fish Hatchery  – Join a 30 minute guided tour of the Fish Hatchery to learn about how trout are raised from eggs to adults, and the role that recreational stocking plays in Alberta. This program includes an opportunity to feed thousands of fish in the burrows ponds.

Guided Snowshoe Adventure – Visit the Bow Habitat Station for a 1 hour guided snowshoe adventure.  Area experts will help you explore how Alberta’s wildlife adapt to survive winter while trekking the trails of the interpretive Wetlands on snowshoes.

Lace up your Skates – Feeling inspired by Canadian figure skater Keegan Messing’s Olympic performances? Calgary is home to a plethora of outdoor skating rinks. While Olympic Plaza and The Olympic Oval are great go-tos, the city has introduced new outdoor options at Bowness and North Glenmore park. To read more of Messing’s journey to Beijing 2022, check out his CBC Interview here.

Get your steps in – With longer days on the horizon, it’s getting easier to motivate ourselves to enjoy the beautiful parks Calgary has to offer. Whether you choose to walk, run, bike or jog these trails, they are the perfect place to get active as a family. Be sure to check out the growing collection of parks and walkways, including our North Pond walking path. 

Celebrate the Snow – There is no better way to celebrate winter than to step into it feet first. Enjoy the thrill of racing down the Winsport tube track all winter long at the Canada Olympic Park Servus Credit Union Tube Park.  

Get Cooking – There is something about getting the whole family involved in the kitchen that makes the meal so much more delicious. Save On Foods U/D has everything you need to make kitchen memories that will last a lifetime. Need a little extra inspiration? Chef Joey offers Virtual interactive cooking classes that are fun at any age or skill level. 

Whether you choose to take part in Family Day indoors or outdoors this year, make the time to make lasting memories!

Taking care of your heart includes exercise, lifestyle habits, & food choices. Read on for some tips to get you started!  

1.Get the Blood Pumping

There’s nothing that makes your heart happier than getting your body moving, with the ok of your doctor, of course. University District is an urban oasis for walkers, joggers and runners alike. Map out your next great adventure with the U/D interactive park map. There’s always something new to see and experience at U/D with parks, outdoor spaces and trails. Including the Central Commons Park skating rink. 

2. Find your Fit

Our friends at UCalgary Active Living provide quality programming and education experiences to encourage a lifelong active lifestyle and keep your overall heart health a top priority. There are options for every skill level, and all fitness classes are led by a professional instructor. Not sure where to begin? Try a swim class at their Aquatic Centre, or their ‘Step and Strength’ group class, which gets your heart pumping with interval training. For a full list of their classes and programs, click here.

3. Download a Functional Fitness App

For those with a competitive edge or needing an extra push to get moving, try tracking your steps through your phone’s fitness function. Whether you are competing against yourself or a loved one, it may be exactly what you need to keep your heart in tip-top shape. Our favourite? The Pacer app!

4. Eat Heart Healthy

“Did you know that up to 80% of premature heart disease and stroke can be prevented through your life habits, such as eating a healthy diet and being physically active?” – Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada

Heart Healthy foods include berries, kale, & whole grains and “healthy’ fat, like avocados are a few foods you can add into your daily diet. U/D Save-On-Foods can help you check off your grocery list with all the ingredients you need to make healthy choices at home. Looking for inspiration? The Heart & Stroke Foundation is a great resource for new recipes & interactive videos to help you get started in the kitchen.

5. Get Educated

Your individual heart health may vary on a lot of factors, including your age, overall health, pre-existing health conditions, stress levels, family history and more. Your family doctor can help provide you with lifestyle recommendations. The Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation also provides resources and information, including free heart health management webinars. If you or someone you love is feeling at risk for heart disease, they offer a wide range of articles and FAQs, and of course your health practitioner can help steer you in the right direction.

Short days, plunging temperatures, a longing for hibernation: The winter blues are a real thing, but there are a few ways to help overcome it.

Now is the perfect time to “press pause” and enjoy the little moments of life like watching a new movie, enjoying a glass of wine, and digging into a pint of your favourite ice cream.

No matter your preference to indulge and unwind, U/D is the perfect place to counteract the winter blues by taking some time for yourself or getting out and connecting with friends.

Enjoy a Movie

Cineplex VIP Cinemas is rolling out a litany of new films in 2022. Movie goers can lounge comfortably in the plush reclining seats while enjoying seat-side bar and food service. Four new flix are set to hit the screens this February, including Uncharted, Death on the Nile, Marry Me and Moonfall. 

Enjoy an event at Market Wines

Have you always wanted to learn how to select a perfect vintage and understand the delicate notes of wine tasting? Market Wines has released their winter event schedule, and their team has curated a list of events designed to tantalize the taste buds of all wine aficionados, from novice noses to seasoned sommeliers.

All Market Wines events are hosted in-person with COVID-19 protocols in place. Individuals must present proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test upon arrival. For more information and to register, visit marketwines.ca/events. 

Bundle up and head on outside

Another way to deal with the winter blues is to face them head on. It’s been said there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing. Put on your favourite mittens and boots, turn up your favourite podcast, grab a latte from Monogram Coffee and go for a walk. It’s the perfect antidote to winter and a chance to get in some sunshine.

U/D’s urban dog park gets a five-bark rating from our furry family members. Our off-leash spaces are fully enclosed for peace of mind while your pup plays, with segregated large and small dog play areas to keep you and your pooch confident and happy. 

Calgarians know how to deal with weather, and many would argue that it’s never too cold to enjoy a fresh, decadent ice cream. University District’s newest resident, Village Ice Cream, is serving the trendiest flavours in town. Try one of their classics, such as Two Hills Earl Grey or Strawberry, or dip into one of their seasonal and vegan features.

Setting resolutions in the new year can be well-intended, but by the end of January, many have lost focus. How do you feel great, and set up habits that last? Read on for head-to-toe tips from our local U/D health and wellness experts.

The new year can be a tough time for many – we start strong, with resolutions and new habits, but sometimes the pressure of our good intentions becomes too much and we fall off track. Rather than latching onto the latest fads, our local experts are here to provide practical advice to help you get started and keep going, all year long.

Let’s start with getting our feet moving

The staff at YYC Cycle U/D will make you feel at home from the moment you walk through their doors. Whether you’re new to spin or a veteran, YYC Cycle has some great tips to kick off the new year right. 

• Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of water during the day and bring water to class. It will keep your body hydrated and happy.
• Try out a new Motivator or change up your class time – You might discover a new favourite, and the shake-up for your schedule will keep you energized.
• Don’t forget to stretch – Those post-class stretches are the minimum your body needs, give yourself some more love and add stretching to your daily routine.
• Make a new Spinstie – Say “hi” to the person next to you, I bet they’re just as happy to make a new friend as you are!

Nervous about your first class? YYC Cycle has you covered. Check out their new rider tips before you head to the studio.

Follow them on Instagram at @yyccycle to keep up to date on their latest classes & tips!

Variety keeps you motivated

A good way to strengthen and tone your body is to keep your routine fresh. Orangetheory Fitness lets you work at your fitness level, and no two classes are ever the same. U/D’s location is offering reduced rates and free trial classes for new students and U/D residents. Their scientific approach to exercise will leave you feeling confident you’re making the most out of each workout. 

Good for your mind, body and spirit

Getting outside is another important component to wellness. Logging some miles while getting fresh air is an easy routine to incorporate, no matter the season. Whether you’re looking for a place to exercise your pets or eager to explore a new running route, there’s a spot for everyone on the 12 km connected paths at U/D. Not sure where to go? Check out the U/D interactive tour to plan your next adventure and discover something new.  

It is not just fitness that supports wellness

When you smile, your brain releases neuropeptides, which help fight off stress. Oral health is a key part of your overall wellness, and the team at University District Dental are here to help you. It is important to visit your dentist twice a year, and properly clean your teeth every day. Are you overdue for a check- up? Toothache or pain? You can book your first consultation with their team of experts online here.

A new hairstyle is a great way to add confidence and adjust your look without making a big investment.  The team at Curious Hair Skin Body can also help you upgrade your skincare routine with face and body products to give you a confident glow. 

A new year always brings new challenges to your finances. The start of the year is a great time to check in and plan for the year ahead. The team at Scotiabank has 4 tips to help organize your finances and prepare for the future. 

• Set goals – Financial goal setting is the first step in creating a solid financial plan. When creating your goals, consider a combination of short-and long-term objectives
• Establish a budget – Remember, if you don’t know where you are, it’s difficult to get to where you want to go. A budget acts like a “you are here” marker on your financial roadmap.
• Automate payments – Another simple strategy you can use to manage your money is automation, which can make many financial tasks more efficient and effortless.
• Manage large and unexpected expenses – An installment plan can help you break up the payments for your purchases, like flights or a vacation rental, into smaller, more budget-friendly amounts.

Everyone has different requirements, so it is always best to connect with your financial experts as you go through your planning.

There you go! Simple ways to take care of yourself, from head to toe. At the University District, we are just as excited as you are to start the year off on the right foot. With new stores, restaurants and services opening soon, it will be easy to have a year of wellness in U/D.

Feeling in a rut when it comes to meal planning? Save-On-Foods in U/D has you covered, with easy to make comfort foods for your household. We’ve pulled together some of our favourite comfort food recipes, with easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients.

BBQ-Style Meatloaf Minis

Meatloaf is a comforting winter meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. These mini loaves bake in half the time and freeze well for individual meals at home or on the go!

Grocery List:

• Ground Beef
• Stove Top Stuffing Mix for Chicken
• Garlic Powder
• BBQ Sauce
• Cheese Whiz 

Get the full recipe here

(Source: Save-On-Foods.com)

Wine Pairing – Beef pairs well with a robust red wine. Market Wines features a wall of carefully curated $20 and under bottles from around the world.

Cheesy Garlic Bread

A classic favorite! This bread is perfectly paired with your favourite winter soup, chili or stew.

Grocery List:

• Round Sourdough bread 
• Triple Cheddar Shredded Cheese Blend
• Unsalted Butter
• Garlic
• Fresh Parsley
• Salt 

Get the full recipe here
(Source: Save-On-Foods.com)

One Pan Pork Chops with Apples and Onions

The sweet apples and onions pair marvelously in this one pan meal. Best served with rice or roasted potatoes. 

Grocery List:

• Olive Oil
• Bone-in Pork Chops
• Chicken Broth
• Dijon Mustard
• Gala Apples
• Red Onion
• Kosher Salt
• Black Pepper
• Fresh Thyme
• Fresh Sage
• Fresh Rosemary

Get the full recipe here
(Source: Save-On-Foods.com)

Wine Pairing – A dry chardonnay will pair nicely with these pork chops. Dry wines help cut the sweetness in meals like this to create a balance with each bite. 

Honey Hoisin Sweet Potatoes

These caramelly sweet potatoes are the perfect addition to your weeknight rotation. 

Grocery List:

• Hoisin Sauce
• Liquid Honey
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Sweet Potatoes
• Limes
• Whole Cashews
• Green Onions (Source: Save-On-Foods.com)
• Salt

Get the full recipe here
(Source: Save-On-Foods.com)

Braised Chicken with Gnocchi and Arugula Pesto

Dinner at home just got even better. This meal is fun to cook with a partner or your family, it’s an Italian classic with a twist!

Grocery List:

• Whole Frying Chicken
• Carrots
• Onion
• Fresh Parsley
• Tomato Paste
• Chicken Broth
• Fresh Potato Gnocchi
• Baby Arugula
• Parmesan Cheese
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Garlic
• Salt
• Basil
• Crushed Red Pepper
• Dry red wine – The experts at Market Wines will help you find the perfect wine for cooking. (Source: Save-On-Foods.com)

Get the full recipe here
(Source: Save-On-Foods.com)

Wine pairing – Tomato based pasta dishes are often paired with red wine. Try a lighter blend such as pinot noir to balance out the light broth for this recipe. 

Blueberry Crumble Bars

No comfort food list is complete without a sweet treat. These blueberry crumble bars are best served warm with a scoop of Village Ice Cream vanilla on top. 

Grocery List:

• All Purpose Flour
• Quick Cooking Oats
• Brown Sugar
• Baking Soda
• Salt
• Vegetable Oil
• Pure Vanilla Extract
• Cornstarch
• Fresh or Frozen Blueberries

Get the full recipe here
(Source: Save-On-Foods.com)