Homebodies: Not just a day off, but a day away
- Details
- Published on Saturday, September 24, 2016
By Rita Friesen
The Banner
It has been a busy summer. The move, the water adventures, the settling in. All wonderful experiences, but busy. I decided that I wanted a day off. I know, I’m retired, every day is a day off. But I wanted a day away. Not serious thinking, nothing strenuous, just relaxing. Having heard much about the Winnipeg Zoo, not having seen the new polar bear exhibit and wanting to see the new heavy horse barns, I invited a friend who needed a day away as much as I did, and we headed out to the big city.
We chose the Labour Day Monday, and so did thousands of others. We chose to be there before lunch, and so did thousands others! What was delightful was that we moved at our own pace. Riding the complimentary tram was an easy way to get from one end to the other. I do not like the aspect of the zoo where large animals are confined in restricted areas, and I did not have to go there. The polar bears were active and lived up to their billing. Off to the side is an Inuit exhibit and a quiet, darkened room where we watched a nine minute clip of life in the north. The scenery was impressive. I have not heard many folks speak of these two features, but if you go see the bears, take a moment and catch the other features.
I wanted to see the new heavy horse barn. ‘The McFeetors Heavy Horse Centre is named in recognition of former Great-West Lifeco CEO and Chairman Ray McFeetors, whose personal donation of $2 million was the catalyst for the project. Great-West Life has pledged an additional $250,000 to name the Great-West Life Paddock within the McFeetors Heavy Horse Centre.’ The barn is gorgeous, if I had one like that I would want horses! On site are four percheron horses, gentle giants, strong and tireless. I appreciate the sentiment expressed –
“’Heavy horses were once as common and vital to farming as tractors are today,’ McFeetors said in a news release issued by the zoo .’ As one who grew up in that era, it’s my privilege to support this exhibit celebrating Manitoba’s agricultural past and to help today’s families experience rural life how it once was.’ Many of us have grand memories of the work of heavy horses, and their role in developing the farming community on the prairies.”
I can’t leave the zoo without stopping at the Shirley Richardson Butterfly Garden. Again, I appreciate the contribution of a Manitoba pioneer family to provide such an awesome display. The exotic butterflies were so impressive, and it is easy to simply sit amid the flowers and watch the gentle movement of colours. I want a butterfly chair.
Really, we didn’t go far, and didn’t spend a whack of money. We were home again before supper. Refreshed and renewed for the week ahead.
