By Janice Hyde
A year and a half ago we moved from Winnipeg to Portage la Prairie. I used to say when it came time to move into a 55+ place I couldn’t live in an apartment-style home. It would have to be a side-by-side bungalow type for me to move. Well never say never. We moved into Meighen Estates a twelve-unit three floor apartment style home and do not regret the decision one bit.
The transition from a two-storey house to a 1667 sq. ft. space at Meighen Estates was easy because it is like a bungalow except it is three floors of bungalow type layouts. Friends coming to visit are amazed when they walk in and see how large and well laid out the plan is. We have two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a heated sunroom, outdoor deck, and plenty of storage space both in the apartment and in the heated main floor parkade. Unlike other apartments you can’t hear any noise from your neighbors. The heated parkade is a real bonus with our Manitoba winters, and it is included in the rent.
The convenience of living here has really made a difference to the hustle and bustle of living in Winnipeg. We have the walkway along the lake, a beautiful park, Stride Place Complex with a huge gym, swimming pools, skating rinks, golf course, and all within five minutes. The new hospital is just down the street. The fabulous modern library, Prairie Fusion Arts & Entertainment Centre, shops, grocery stores, restaurants are minutes away. With the price of gas, these things are important. We can still enjoy events happening in Winnipeg. The short drive is easier and faster than driving from one end of Winnipeg to the other, especially during rush hour.
The rent is less than what we were paying for the monthly maintenance costs for our house and we are free from the worries of the upkeep. It is a great feeling when we head to the lake and all we have to do is turn the key and go. If you are thinking about simplifying your life by moving into a 55+ place I encourage you to think about Portage La Prairie and Meighen Estates. We love it.
Janice Hyde is a former Winnipegger who has discovered the beauty of living outside the city.
