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33 | O akville B eaver | T hursday,D ecem ber 16,2021 insidehalton.com After 43 incredible years living in one Canada's best towns, in 2019 my husband Craig and I (empty nesters for several years) decided it was time to write a new chapter in new surroundings. Our dilemma: What town could possibly follow the act of our beloved Oakville? After lots of research we discovered the beautiful historic town of Amherstburg, Ontario, located in the wine producing district of Essex County. It reminded us very much of Oakville when we first discovered it decades ago. Local cafes, quaint restaurants, breathtaking waterfront parks, endless opportunities for nature walks, hikes, bike rides and perhaps most importantly that small-town friendliness that nips you right in your heart.We were smitten. Luck lead us to Bois Blanc Island - a private residential island in Amherstburg reachable only by ferry that was once home to one of the country's most renowned amusement parks converted over time to a cottage-like retreat.We settled into a beautiful Victorian townhome overlooking the Detroit river. The natural floral and fauna that greet us each morning a refreshing a calming change to our normal hustle and bustle. Life on Bois Blanc is comprised of exploration and adventure. In addition to brisk waterfront strolls we enjoy kayaking, biking, fishing, boating, golf-carting, visits from deer in our backyard at dusk, and building relationships with wonderful new friends.Wellness on Bois Blanc is a lifestyle - there is a mindfulness, a reconnection with nature, a peacefulness that we have embraced with open arms. Throughout Essex county there is a commitment to support local small businesses - many of which stem from the incredible bounty that comes from the region's rich lands: Farm to table experiences, wonderful bakeries, interesting artisans and more. There is a warmth between folks that is almost nostalgic. Time is taken to greet your neighbor or have a chat with the person in line with you at the store.Waving to people is the norm and strangely enough, so is courtesy on the road! Only a 3 1/2 hour drive from Oakville (or better a comfortable Via train ride into Windsor), we are visited often by our dear friends and in turn never miss a special Oakville event. Detroit Metropolitan Airport is an easy 30 mile drive (no traffic!) with an abundance of international flights leaving daily.World class theater and dining are a short drive away in both Windsor and Detroit. We will always cherish the phenomenal decades that we spent in Oakville raising our family - we had such an amazing experience, but we are eager to explore this next phase of our lives in Essex County.We welcome inquiries about Essex County, Amherstburg and Bois Blanc Island and would love for you to visit us to experience our new playground (we really mean it!) You just might find it's the perfect spot for you to write your next chapter too. Wishing you and yours a healthy and joyous holiday season and wonderful 2022, MAGGIE NEWLOVE Broker Royal LePage Binder Real Estate Amherstburg Office 519-NEWLOVE (519-639-5683) 350 CRYSTAL BAY Amherstburg, ON $2,399,000 A spectacular waterfront property on prestigious Bois Blanc Island. Custom built to the highest standards. Stellar view of the Detroit River, the Livingston Channel and Grosse Isle MI. For more details contact Maggie Direct: 519-NEWLOVE (519-639-5683) SEAON'S GREETINGS From the desk of ----- FEATURED LISTING ----- Opportunities to explore at many price points in Essex County. Condos, townhomes and luxury estates - there is something for everyone! Call me today to learn more. Maggie Newlove Maggie