Community Hero —by Hillary Handy Artist and arts advocate Kate Hilliard Community Hero this monthOrillia is home to incredible artists, musicians, artisans, and creatives. We tend to see the performer or the artist first…but what about those working in the background...
Toddler Tourist —by Hillary Handy Let’s Ride a Bike As summer turns into fall, I am thankful for all the beautiful weather we enjoyed. Our family was blessed by many adventures and incredible summer days! When I think about the kick-off to summer, it seems to happen...
Warminster Write-Up —by Hillary Handy School is back in session! The children of Warmie enjoyed summer, scooting around town and being young, wild, and free.The biggest news we can share about our little neck of the woods is we received our first sidewalk! We are a...
Community Hero Robert Chapman — by Hillary Handy Our community is filled with so many incredibly interesting people. Every story is so different, but each contribution, big or small, helps shape our community in positive ways. I think that’s one of the reasons I enjoy...
Warminster Write-Up — by Hillary Handy We are in the thick of it with summer mode in Warminster! It is a joy to see the scooter gang out and about, kids playing at the park, and neighbours walking around the block, chatting with one another.It has been so exciting to...
Toddler Tourist by Hillary Handy How did you make out with our Park Passport adventure from our last issue? Our winner was Susan Grant, who did go to five parks and sent a photo! Congratulations Susan! It is a joy to find fun, affordable outings for you and your...
Your Mom Goes to College:The Final Chapter — by Hillary HandyIf you’ve been reading along, you will know that I made the decision to return to academia after a 15-year hiatus. During that season, I was able to explore different avenues of the workforce, including my...
Mariposa Folk Festival Recap — by Hillary Handy If you are fortunate enough to be able to attend Mariposa Folk Festival, then you are fortunate indeed. It is an incredible gathering of creative and talented minds, amidst those who appreciate the arts. I enjoy hearing...
North Simcoe Life Community Hero June/JulyCommunity Hero:Steve Caston —by Hillary Handy and Anna Proctor We are continuing in our trip down memory lane as we celebrate 20 years of North Simcoe Life. A crucial part of our story and our ability to tell your stories is...
Toddler Tourist by Hillary Handy Orillia ParkPassport Adventureand contest! Summer is on the horizon! There are so many fun things I have planned. Dreams, schemes…that turn into memes. No matter what I plan, there is usually an element of chaos that ensues. Do I keep...
WarminsterWrite-Up by Hillary Handy Summer mode has been activated in Warminster! It has been so exciting to see all the action at the newly completed XBHL facility. All ages have been playing, and it is such a blessing to the community. The indoor space is so...
Community Hero by Hillary Handy Anna Proctor— Championing Community & Culture in North Simcoe It is hard to toot your own horn, so I’m happy to sing the praises of our own Anna Proctor as this issue’s Community Hero! Throughout our issues in 2026, we have been...
Toddler Tourist by Hillary Handy Birding in North Simcoe In North Simcoe, the sounds of spring bring delight to our souls. It feels as if we have been hibernating for far too long. Then you hear the chirping of birds and suddenly, everything feels different. You’re...
Warminster Write-up — by Hillary HandyThe end of 2025 was a sweet one. Students at Warminster Elementary School enjoyed the final weeks of school. The holiday concert was fantastic. Students performed an assortment of holiday tunes bringing joy to family members in...
Toddler Tourist by Hillary Handy Family Day Mayhem:Ideas for family funright here in North Simcoe February’s Family Day long weekend is the perfect reminder that you don’t have to travel far or spend much money to make meaningful family memories. February 14, 15 and...
WarminsterWrite-up — by Hillary Handy Warminster loves autumn. With our corn fields and pumpkin patches, it is a holiday hallmark movie for the lovers of fall. But we are now dreaming of a beautiful, magical holiday season. Halloween came and went, and the entire...
Toddler Tourist by Hillary Handy A Christmas 2025 calendarof events in North Simcoe…or, just do your own thing! The Toddler Tourist and entourage adore everything merry, magical, and joyfully over-the-top. If there’s twinkle lights, hot cocoa, or an inflatable snowman...
Community Hero by Hillary Handy Lucy Goodman In May 2025, Monsignor Lee Catholic School hosted the musical production of The Little Mermaid. It was an incredible, high calibre production that presented as much more sophisticated than the usual you would expect from...
Toddler Tourist by Hillary Handy Reflections of summer in Simcoe North When I think about this summer, I am very grateful. I am privileged to be able to work my schedule to have lots of time to spend with my children, doing loads of adventures across land and sea....
Orillia Thrift Store Update by Hillary Handy The Orillia Thrift Store is a not-for-profit, 100% volunteer-run social enterprise that’s more than just a place to find hidden gems. It’s a store with heart, purpose, and a mission to give back.What started as a shared...
The Maker’s Circle by Hillary Handy 17 Peter Street South is now home to The Maker’s Circle! This is a collaborative art gallery and teaching studio in the heart of Orillia’s Arts District. This space will allow for 13 different creators to showcase their creativity...
Warminster Write Up by Hillary Handy Summer feels like a distant memory now that we are back to school. It was a wonderful summer, indeed! Warminster Soccer was a smashing success. With a new executive team willing to lead the initiative, the transition from the...
Laura DicksonCommunity Hero — by Hillary Handy Our Community Hero for this issue is Laura Dickson. You have seen her when you’re grabbing a bite to eat, but you have also seen her all around town because she is so active in our community. Long before Laura Dickson...
Warminster Write-Up — by Hillary HandyAs we think back to the last month of school, June was a busy one! Several classes enjoyed visits to the Coldwater Bowling Centre to wind-down the year. Students were recognized at the Character Award Assembly. We have some...
Author Spotlight: Pure Bliss — by Hillary Handy From playdates to pages: Two moms pen a book and celebrate its release. Madeline Sheppard and Rachel Durocher are friends and sisters-in-law. Madeline lives in Newfoundland and Rachel calls Warminster her home. Every...