Todd and I moved to New West just over a year ago, in february of 2012. That entire year was a lifechanging one for me. I went from working a pretty lousy job, to working hard a growing my business into something that far succeeded what I imagined in one year. I also had the amazing opportunity to team up with Madison of Hope & Co. and start working on a little magazine called “The Refinery Magazine”. It was a crazy crazy year, and has only led to more craziness – thankfully it is all awesome craziness!
One of the most important things that helped that change was starting fresh in a new city: New Westminster. Even the name of the community screams: new, exciting, fresh, and old – all at the same time. After all, New West is the oldest city in British Columbia! When we first moved here we experienced some amazing new things, like walks on historic columbia, the rose garden in Queens Park, and date nights at the movie theatres or at some tiny restaurant down the street.
Starting this week, I pledge to write when I can about my experiences in New West, but also the wonderful things that Todd and I do together in the city we now call our long term home – or at least we plan to make it a long time!
First Off, we call it Burgers & Bowling:
How to start the date:
1. Strip off your work clothes after a long week. Call up Mel & Duncan who live across the street, or any couple that loves to have fun, and invite them out for burgers and bowling. Throw on a loose T-Shirt, hoodie, SOCKS, and your favourite pair of lululemons or jeans and head out the door.
2. Drive to Burger Heaven – This haven for burger lovers is a hidden gem for most residents outside of New West. Thankfully those who live here have usually tempted their tastebuds with some delicious meat, bread, and condiments. With a comfy atmosphere and good friends for chatting, the meal truly is angelic: home cooked goodness, without the mess afterwards. My favourite is their Miss Piggy’s favourite: #2 Teriyaki and Mozza Burger with bacon. Quite fitting.
Here is their website: http://www.burgerheaven.ca
3. Aim to catch Cloud 9 Bakery before it closes, because not everyone can have a glutenous dessert. Head to Cloud 9 for some delicious baked goods that everyone can enjoy, even those who are gluten free. Their cupcakes are TO DIE for, including their fabulous carrot cake delectable.
Here is their website: http://www.cloud9specialtybakery.com
4. Finish it all with some beers and bowling at the local bowling alley: Lucky Strikes. Pull up your socks, put on your retro shoes, and bowl the night away. If you are lucky you may even catch disco night, so be prepared to wear white and feel transported back to the 80’s!
Here is their website: http://www.luckystrikebowl.ca
I hope this provides you with some evening entertainment for maybe even this friday, and make sure to bring another couple along for this date, as 4 people just amps up the fun level even more. And of course, once you get home, its always a good time to turn on some JT or Robin Thicke, relax on the couch with a glass of wine, and chill.
Thank you new west for providing everyone with some entertainment. The Young, The Old, and The Romantics.
– Ainsley xoxo
P.S. This activity is age appropriate for everyone, so next time you have an evening free, take the kids along, or even the grandparents – or not!
Ainsley's Affairs 