The Handshake
It’s funny, the things you miss…
A handshake. It means different things to different people, and it has always been important to me. This new working climate has taken away many things, but that part I miss the most.
I still almost extend my hand each time I meet a new client, work with a past one, run into a friend or even pop by my dads’ yard to catch up. It’s a symbol for me of trust and one I learned very early.
I remember working many summers with my father in Toronto. It was a unique business; managing parking lots and property management downtown. Although real estate related, the business was different than what I do today, but the strengths of what made my father successful transferred well to my career many years later…establishing relationships, building a reputation for working hard and most importantly, not letting down the people who trust you.
I didn’t appreciate the real success my dad had until years later, but it wasn’t anything related to money, it was how he treated everyone he worked with and how they treated him back.
I remember so vividly he and I driving from location to location, me probably complaining about working on Saturday, and him jumping out of the truck with such enthusiasm each time we pulled up to meet someone. He might have had a joke, or a “Hey, how are ya”, or maybe it was just getting straight down to the work at hand, but a handshake always came first. It didn’t matter whether he worked for you, worked with you, or you worked for him. When he met you, the first thing he always did was extend his hand.
The handshake. Person after person.
As years followed, I was the one driving and meeting people just like he did, and I always made sure the shake came first.
I knew it was important, but early on I probably didn’t know why. It may have become just a habit. But I did notice the word trust was said a lot. When people were referring to my dad, it came up time and time again. People seemed to put a lot into the handshake and it was my dad’s way of saying they could count on him. Sure, there might have been bigger companies than his, but I soon realized that the people he worked with didn’t care about that.
I started to realize what made him different, and what people wanted most. It was someone they could depend on.
When I began my real estate career nothing changed. The work with my dad all those years left me with many things that made working in this industry almost seamless. Helping many different people, a competitive landscape, and of course building relationships. (The commutes a lot better too, lol.)
It’s funny, as my kids started to get bigger (prior to the pandemic of course), I even started to pick up on them shaking hands. I would introduce them to someone and a “Nice to meet you” would come out at the same time. It was hard not to smile. Look, you may shake hands with someone for different reasons, but one will not argue that there is a feeling that usually goes with it. My dad taught most things in life by his actions, and shaking someone’s hand was his way. Everyone trusted him, and he did everything he could to not let them down.
I know its that first step for me in building any relationship.
The pandemic has changed how business is done in many ways. Zoom meetings, Docusign, and remote working where possible. The personal touch has been removed from a business that really relies on it. Some things may be changed forever, but of all the things I look forward to when this pandemic is over, you can be sure if you are meeting me, we are shaking hands first.
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When people think about the perfect place to raise a family, they often picture safe neighbourhoods, great schools, plenty of parks, and a strong sense of community. Guelph offers all of that and more. Guelph has become one of Ontario's most desirable places to live for families of all sizes. Whether you are raising young children, have teenagers, or are planning for the future, Guelph provides a lifestyle that balances convenience, nature, and community in a way that is hard to find. Here are just a few reasons why so many families are proud to call Guelph home. Excellent Schools and Educational Opportunities Education is one of Guelph's biggest strengths. Families have access to a variety of highly regarded public and Catholic schools, as well as French immersion and private school options. The city is also home to the University of Guelph, one of Canada's leading universities, giving students the opportunity to pursue higher education close to home. Parks, Trails, and Green Space One of the first things you'll notice about Guelph is how much green space there is. From Riverside Park and Royal City Park to Preservation Park and the University of Guelph Arboretum, there are countless places for families to spend time outdoors. Walking trails, splash pads, playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas make it easy to stay active all year long. If your family enjoys hiking, cycling, or simply getting outside after dinner, Guelph has no shortage of places to explore. Family Friendly Neighbourhoods Every neighbourhood in Guelph has its own unique personality, making it easy to find one that suits your lifestyle. Areas like Westminster Woods, Kortright Hills, Clairfields, Grange Hill East, and the South End are especially popular with families thanks to their parks, schools, and nearby amenities. If you love mature trees and historic charm, neighbourhoods like Exhibition Park and Old University offer beautiful streets and a strong sense of community. Activities for Every Season No matter the time of year, there is always something happening in Guelph. Families can enjoy the Guelph Farmers' Market, community festivals, outdoor concerts, holiday celebrations, and local sporting events throughout the year. During the summer, Guelph Lake and nearby conservation areas are perfect for swimming, hiking, and camping. In the winter, skating, sledding, and festive light displays help make the colder months just as enjoyable. A Strong Sense of Community One of the things that makes Guelph stand out is its welcoming atmosphere. Local businesses, neighbourhood events, and community programs make it easy to meet people and feel connected. Whether you're grabbing coffee from a local café, cheering on your child's sports team, or attending a community event, you'll quickly discover why so many residents love living here. Convenient Location Guelph offers the perfect balance between city living and small town charm. The city has everything families need, including shopping, recreation, healthcare, restaurants, and entertainment, while remaining close to Highway 401 for commuters travelling to Toronto, Mississauga, Kitchener, or Cambridge. It's a convenient location without the hustle and bustle of a larger city. Why Families Love Calling Guelph Home Every family is looking for something a little different, but Guelph checks many of the same boxes. Excellent schools, beautiful parks, welcoming neighbourhoods, and a strong sense of community make it an easy place to put down roots. Whether you're enjoying an afternoon at Riverside Park, exploring the trails at the Arboretum, or spending a Saturday morning at the Farmers' Market, it's easy to see why so many people choose to build their lives here. Final Thoughts Choosing where to raise a family is about more than finding the right home. It's about finding the right community. With its mix of outdoor recreation, quality education, family friendly neighbourhoods, and welcoming atmosphere, Guelph continues to be one of Ontario's best places to live. If you're considering making the move, take some time to explore the city's neighbourhoods and experience everything Guelph has to offer. You may just find that it's the perfect place for your family's next chapter.
Summer in Guelph is the perfect time to get outside, explore the community, and enjoy everything the City has to offer — without spending a fortune. From scenic trails and local markets to outdoor events and public spaces, there are plenty of ways to make the most of August. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly activity, a weekend adventure, or a relaxing evening outdoors, here are some of the best free things to do in Guelph this month. Explore Guelph’s Beautiful Parks Guelph is home to countless parks and green spaces that are perfect for summer days. Pack a picnic, bring a book, or spend an afternoon exploring with family and friends. Some local favourites include: Riverside Park One of Guelph’s most iconic parks, Riverside Park offers plenty of space to relax, walk along the river, enjoy the gardens, or let the kids explore. It’s also a popular spot for community gatherings throughout the year. Exhibition Park Located near downtown, Exhibition Park is a great place to enjoy mature trees, open green space, and a peaceful neighbourhood atmosphere. It’s perfect for a casual walk, a picnic, or an afternoon outdoors. The Arboretum at the University of Guelph For a quiet escape surrounded by nature, The Arboretum offers walking trails, gardens, and beautiful landscapes to explore. With hundreds of acres to discover, it’s a favourite destination for nature lovers. Visit Local Markets Supporting local vendors is a great way to spend a summer morning in Guelph. Browse fresh produce, handmade goods, baked treats, and locally made products while enjoying the community atmosphere. Guelph Farmers’ Market A Saturday morning visit to the Guelph Farmers’ Market is a must for anyone who loves local food and artisan goods. Even if you’re just browsing, it’s a great place to experience the community spirit of Guelph. Enjoy Free Community Events Guelph’s summer calendar is filled with community events that bring residents together. Throughout August, residents can enjoy outdoor gatherings, local celebrations, and free activities happening across the city. The City of Guelph hosts several free summer events, including Hot Summer Nights , a community event series held at different parks throughout the city. https://guelph.ca/2026/06/hot-summer-nights-returns-for-the-2026-season/ For a downtown evening, check out Market Square , a public gathering space that hosts community events and seasonal programming throughout the year. Discover Guelph’s Trails If you love spending time outdoors, Guelph has no shortage of scenic trails to explore. Some great options include: Preservation Park This natural area features walking trails through forests, wetlands, and green space — making it a great spot for a peaceful summer walk. Eramosa River Park Enjoy riverside views, walking paths, and plenty of space to unwind outdoors. It’s a great place for a morning stroll or an evening walk. Starkey Hill A great spot to enjoy nature, get some fresh air, and experience one of Guelph’s most loved trail systems close to home. Explore Public Art Around the City Guelph’s creativity extends beyond galleries and studios — public art can be found throughout the city. Take a self-guided walk downtown and discover murals, sculptures, historic architecture, and unique community spaces. A walk through downtown Guelph is a great way to enjoy the city’s character while supporting local businesses along the way. Make the Most of August in Guelph One of the best parts about living in Guelph is the incredible sense of community and the number of free activities available all year long. Whether you’re exploring a new trail, visiting a local market, or enjoying an evening event, there are always new ways to experience the city.
