Letter From The Editor
By Kerri Leland
How is it already September? This summer seemed to fly by, and if I’m being honest, it felt like we traded sunshine for rain and mosquitoes more often than I would have liked! Still, we weren’t about to let a few soggy weekends (or cans of bug spray) stop us from enjoying everything Alberta has to offer.
My husband and I spent as much time as we could exploring our own backyard. We loved wandering through Taste of Edmonton—because who can resist trying just one more sample?—and sneaking away on camping trips around the province whenever we had the chance. There’s something about sitting around a campfire, breathing in the fresh mountain air (or prairie air!), and watching the stars come out that reminds you how lucky we are to call Alberta home.
As much as I’m not quite ready to pack away my flip-flops, I have to admit there’s something I love about the arrival of fall. The cooler mornings, changing leaves, and excuse to pull out a cozy sweater make September feel like a fresh start. While everyone talks about New Year’s resolutions, I think autumn is the season that quietly encourages us to reflect, reset, and look ahead.
That couldn’t be more fitting for this issue.
Our cover story introduces you to Leander Lane, whose remarkable journey reminds us that retirement isn’t about slowing down; it’s about discovering what comes next. His passion for preserving his family’s history and sharing it with future generations is both inspiring and deeply moving.
Throughout these pages, you’ll also find practical advice for planning ahead, navigating caregiving, and having some of those important conversations that are easy to put off…but can make all the difference when the time comes. And if you’ve been dreaming about that once-in-a-lifetime getaway, Alison Phillips is here with a gentle nudge to stop waiting for “someday.” (I may have started adding a few destinations to my own travel wish list after reading her article!)
Of course, we haven’t forgotten the fun, either. Be sure to check out our exciting giveaways, including an evening of laughter and yummy food at Jubilations Dinner Theatre.
Whether you’re reading this with your morning coffee, curled up under a blanket on a cool fall evening, or sneaking a few quiet minutes while everyone else is busy, I hope this issue leaves you feeling inspired, informed, and excited for the season ahead.
Thank you, as always, for being part of the Alberta Senior Living community. It truly means the world to all of us.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to enjoy every last bit of patio weather before winter reminds us who’s really in charge.
Warmly,
Kerri Leland
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief, Alberta Senior Living