Renovations 2017 | Page 96

THE COMMUNITY Shelley and Ken Collins retired at The Cottages and made it their home where friends and family can visit. THE HOMEOWNERS Shelley and Ken Collins had raised a family in Sherwood Park, Alberta, where they had lived for forty years. Their chosen retirement home was to be a 1,500 sq. ft. walkout bungalow that they had downsized into from their larger home. Shelley had worked as a Probation Officer with Alberta Justice and Ken is part owner of a distribution company. Their plans changed, however, when they found The Cottages. For practical and nostalgic reasons, they loved The Cottages. Shelley had researched the warmest place in Canada and they had friends in the Okanagan region. The home designs at The Cottages reminded Shelley of her childhood cottage life in Nova Scotia. The Cottages provide both physical and emotional comfort for the Collins and their family. “We are making memories for our grandchildren with every visit. They love it here as much as we do.” Flexibility in home design is important at The Cottages. They can enjoy a grand view of the lake and hillsides from their deck and have the space to accommodate friends and family. Community and activities give The Cottages its special country ambiance. “We have the lake, wineries, farms and the mountains,” the Collins note. Ken plays hockey with a local team and has poker nights with the guys. Shelley joined a local choir and keeps fit with yoga and zumba classes at the clubhouse while working part-time at a local winery. Words of wisdom for those looking to move to The Cottages; “Don’t hesitate as everything you need is here! The place felt like home the week we moved in.” - Text by J. Lynn Fraser