The “Village” People

Perhaps because I’m new to Winnipeg, I find it exciting to explore neighbourhoods that may be commonplace for most Winnipeggers. For instance, since the 11th of March, I have been housesitting in Osborne Village. Making the move across Winnipeg was a bit formidable. I am familiar with my slightly eastern neighbourhood, and was a bit nervous about shifting gears. However, hosting some friends on the 14th I found it infinitely convenient to have the Safeway / MLCC / Shoppers Drug Mart triangle within walking distance at Osborne, between Roslyn Road (two way), and River Avenue (one way, heading west). Picking up last minute groceries, a bottle or two of vino, and some paper towel (spills happen!), was quite helpful.

Now, adjacent to the MLCC is a very busy Starbucks location. Although I’ve been there twice, I can’t get a read on the joint. It’s a combination of yuppie, transient, and hipster. Considering there is another Starbucks across the parking lot inside Safeway, I’m astounded by how busy this one spot can be. More than once I have walked across the street to have coffee/study/write at the Second Cup at Osborne and River. Far less busy, this location offers quick service and at the very least, a place to sit. My verdict is that if you’re looking to be noticed, check out the Starbucks in Osborne. It might be the trendiest one in the city. If you’d rather get some work done while you’re at the coffee shop, the Second Cup is the better choice.

So…this area is known for its shopping. One of my very best friends, who is from Winnipeg but lives in Vancouver, would tell me all about Corydon. When we worked together in Vancouver, I would hear stories about good shopping, great coffee, and fun nights out in this favourite neighbourhood of hers. I have vague memories, from years ago, being on two separate trips to Winnipeg, and discovering how hip and trendy both Corydon and Osborne seemed to be. Of course, I also remember a bleeding toe from breaking in my new Birkenstock clogs (maybe I was the one trying too hard to be hip and trendy?). On Emma’s suggestion I now see a hair stylist who works on Corydon. I’m looking forward to the summertime when I understand Corydon transforms into the “Kitsilano” of Winnipeg (we’ll see about that one). After moving to Osborne I haven’t done much purchasing, but I have done a lot of observing. Checking out the American Apparel location prompted me to ask my aunt (she’s been down here since the ’60s when peace and free love weren’t better represented than along Osborne), about the imposition of this major American retailer along Osborne. She indicated having American Apparel on the strip is a good thing. Upon reflection, I can see why. The hipsters of the 1960s aren’t the hipsters of today…they’re in their mid- to late-fifties. In order to draw a younger crowd back down to this area, shops such as American Apparel must be welcomed into the “Village”.

Though I believe it’s just awaiting more content, there is a newly developed Osborne Village website. In less than a week, my Osborne Village adventure will come to an end. I have enjoyed staying down here, but there are a few things I won’t miss. Back in my ‘hood I rarely hear sirens at night. Over in Osborne I hear them, inevitably, every night. Back in my ‘hood I have built-in friends (they live in a separate suite in the same house). Over in Osborne I’m the one and only human in a very large house…just an unappreciative cat shares the couch. Back in my ‘hood the roof is new, the windows are double triple-paned, and I can monitor my houseplants. Over in Osborne…I just miss my bed.

Aside: Emma and I have recently learned that our hair stylist is in the process of developing his own salon. While I previously mentioned he is on Corydon, his new shop will be right in the heart of Osborne Village. Something to look forward to! It seems this vibrant community is in a constant state of change – even between the shopping districts of Corydon and Osborne.