Winter 2011

The air is frosty, the snow has fallen, and temperatures are dropping – yes, winter is upon us as we set in for the Big Chill.

Winnipeg is a winter city, and whether you embrace it, you do have to face it. With the right attitude, and the right wardrobe, there is a lot to enjoy – both indoors and out, especially during the holidays. As a friend of mine says, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing choices.”

Here at Winnipeg Women magazine, we’ve been getting ready for the season for weeks now – checking out what’s hot for the holidays – fashion, food and fun! We’ll help you warm up to winter with a few new ideas for your holiday wardrobe, the perfect gifts for the ones you love, and some cool holiday events – and even recipes – that promise good times and good cheer.

Of course, this is also the season of giving. In this issue we’re not only your “guide to living local” but also your “guide to giving local” as we’ve shopped around to find some unique – and colourful – gifts from Winnipeg and Manitoba businesses that can fulfill your holiday wish lists. We’ve also created a list for those wishing to donate to local charities, in the true spirit of the season.

In this issue, we also profile people and organizations who give back to the community. The Honourable Sharon Carstairs gave tirelessly in her years as a politician and, as she tells us, in her dedicated role as a mother. Others who understand the gift of generosity, include organizations such as Connect Employment, which helps people with intellectual disabilities find jobs.

And getting into the holiday spirit(s), our Dish section features everything from Christmas cocktails to seasonal cuisine, as well as where you can go to dine in or take out your favourite festive fare.

In our Dreamspaces section you’ll find some new ways to warm up by the fire, or get cozy under the covers in a dream-like bedroom, as we discover a few new things to bring you comfort and joy.

So as we greet the winter and holiday season, I wish you all the warmth that goodwill, good cheer and good company can bring.

Happy holidays and all the best for 2012!