Brewery District Living magazine - Issue 04 by River District Living | Brewery District Living

Brewery

DISTRICT LIVING • ISSUE 04

PEOPLE, PLACES, & PETS IN OUR COMMUNITY

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Dear Neighbours Change is part of life and, as familiar sights evolve and new elements emerge, our community continues to be shaped by creativity, care, and a strong sense of place. This issue reflects that spirit - grounded in history, yet open to what lies ahead. We welcome a new year with new opportunities and adventures. In Issue 04 of Brewery District Living we meet a talented New Westminster artist who set out to preserve a piece of our shared history by painting the iconic original Pattullo Bridge before it disappears from the skyline - a heartfelt reminder of how deeply place and memory are intertwined. We also spotlight neighbours who are building businesses rooted in purpose, from a local coffee company founded on the belief that giving back should be built into the business model, to an earth-conscious wedding and event planning company helping people celebrate sustainably, without compromise.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Love for Brewery District Why we love it here

Feature Artist: Lanta Meng

This issue also pedals through the fascinating history of a beloved local bicycle shop, introduces a brand-new podcast made for dog lovers, and features a spicy yet undeniably adorable ginger kitty who’s sure to steal your heart (and maybe hide it under the fridge with the rest of his toys).

Learn about New West artists & art

Neza Coffee: A Cup of Hope Brewing community, quality, & purpose

Kids Activity Page

At its core, Brewery District Living is a celebration of the people, places, pets, and moments that define our neighbourhood and community. We’re so glad to share these stories with you - and grateful to have you along for the journey. Thank you for reading!

Fun puzzles, games, & colouring

WasteKnot Weddings and Events Earth-conscious event planning services

Light Up Sapperton: Recap & Thanks! Thank you for a wonderful event

Sincerely,

Cap’s Bicycle Shop A Sapperton classic with deep local roots

Katherine Hall

Ruffly Speaking Podcast

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Understanding our dogs and ourselves

Meet our Feature Pet

Benji: a sweet & spicy orange tabby boy 2

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BREWERY DISTRICT LIVING

Brewery District Living recognizes and respectfully acknowledges the Qayqayt First Nation, as well as all Coast Salish peoples, on whose traditional and unceded territories we live and work.

Cover Art

Editor-in-Chief & Content Director

Advertising Sales

"A View of Pattullo Bridge from Victoria Hill” Painting by Lanta Meng

Katherine Hall

Contributing Photographers / Artists

Contributing Writers

Lanta Meng Stefanie Fournier Photography Mallory Gladman Rodrigo Sarrat-Cave Laura Garcia Jen + Brian Photo & Film Nadine Umutoni Olivia Lam Courtney Healey Photography @thegiantspictures_canada Leanne Sim Photography Kitty Ly Rowena Huang Jeremy Hannaford Sachin Khona Photography Sapperton Business Collective Chris Nybom J&H Creative Co Katherine Hall Sebastian Miraglia Gordon Hobbis TwoWheelTimeMachine Bicycle Museum

Connect with us:

@brewerydistrictlivingmagazine

Lanta Meng Nadine Umutoni Mallory Gladman Chris Nybom Sebastian Miraglia

Laura Garcia Olivia Lam Benji Ly Kitty Ly Katherine Hall

brewerydistrictlivingmagazine@gmail.com

Congratulations to Sarah, the lucky winner of our New West Holiday Mega-Giveaway! With huge thanks to the amazing businesses who donated to the prize pool: Artsy Candle, BAK’D Cookies, Cap’s Bicycle Shop New West, Chicko Chicken Sapperton, GARDENWORKS, Kelly O’Bryan’s/Carlos O’Bryan’s New West, Moka’s Treats, Neza Coffee, Pappa Leo’s Pizza New West, Queen’s Park Florist, Scentuals Natural & Organic Skin Care, & The Zesty Lemon Clothing Co. THANK YOU!!!

Have you heard about our Community Club Card, connecting neighbours with local businesses and offering special rewards and perks? SIGN UP FOR YOUR FREE BREWERY DISTRICT LIVING ‌COMMUNITY CLUB‌ ‌CARD & START SAVING TODAY!‌ Want to add your business to our Community Club Card and reach more customers in New Westminster? Connect with us at brewerydistrictliving@gmail.com to find out how!

Follow our community account on Instagram @brewerydistrictliving

Grand Opening special: 75% OFF beginner classes!

Reach your peak; fence with Apex. (604)-767-APEX (2739) info@apexfencingacademy.ca Follow @theapexfencingacademy 2805 Spring Street, Port Moody Locally owned & operated

Apex Fencing Academy is run by Olympic Fencers, Eric Boisse, Olympic Champion & Monica Peterson, Canadian Olympian & multiple time national champion, who are excited to bring the sport of fencing to our community with classes available in English and French!

FREE TRIAL CLASS for new members!

Love for Brewery District

The Brewery District and Sapperton area represent the vibrant heart of New Westminster. Many people are drawn to this area for its distinctive character and progressive, creative atmosphere. From nearly every vantage point, the natural beauty of the river, bridges, and surrounding mountains is ever-present. As an artist living in this part of the city, I am fortunate to be continually inspired by my surroundings.

- Lanta , Contemporary Landscape Artist What I love about New Westminster is how central and convenient it feels. It’s an easy city to walk, with beautiful waterfront paths that invite you to slow down. Walking along the Quay is one of my favourite things to do. I love nature, the colourful flowers, and the city’s diversity - it feels vibrant, welcoming, and alive.

What we love most about New West in general, and more especially the Brewery District in Sapperton, is that unique sense of community that's honestly hard to come by these days. We’re both lucky to not only have clients here, but also friends and fellow business owners who make us feel right at home. We love how the neighbourhood welcomes you with a smile, even if you're just out for a walk with a dog.

- Laura & Olivia , Ruffly Speaking Podcast My pawrents like how central Brewery District is, and how well developed it's become. My pawrents have had a rough year with lots of hospital visits for my grandparents and Brewery District being so close to the hospital is good for them. They said they are also happy about the food options in the area, like Green’s and Beans (scones are delicious according to Mom), and BAK'D Cookies (since mom closed her business, BAK'D is the only cookie option that mom says is 'not too sweet'). The highway is also close by, so it's easy for travel.

- Benji the Cat , on behalf of his Pawrents Kitty & Allan

What's not to love? I always enjoy my experience at Newest Smile Dental. The staff are welcoming and friendly and the appointments are very efficient. Then I get to treat myself afterwards with a mouthwatering cookie from BAK’D Cookies! There are some hidden gems in this historic neighbourhood, including my favourites - The Zesty Lemon Clothing Co. and the relatively new Captain’s Oven Pizza.

We at Cap's love the Sapperton neighbourhood as it provides a seamless blend of heritage and urban convenience. Sapperton offers excellent connectivity for commuters riding the Central Valley Greenway into the city or heading east over the Port Mann Bridge for longer road adventures through the valley. With its quiet residential streets, the charm of Hume Park and the cluster of independent cafes and shops along East Columbia, the area exudes a warm and inviting character. Our long tenured staff are proud to serve our community and meet the cycling needs of riders of every age and experience level.

- Mallory , WasteKnot Weddings & Events

- Chris & Sebastian , Cap’s New Westminster

- Nadine , Neza Coffee

Shop the collection

Artist Spotlight: Lanta Meng

ARTIST BIO Lanta Meng is a contemporary landscape artist based in New Westminster, British Columbia. She studied Fine Art at the San Francisco Academy of Art College and at the Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design in Vancouver in the early 1980s. Blending impressionism and realism, Meng’s work is distinguished by her sensitive use of colour, shape, light, and shadow. Through a dynamic interplay of smooth and textured brushwork, she uses vibrant oil paints to translate her observations, inspirations, and emotions onto canvas. Nature is central to her practice, with inspiration drawn from New Westminster, the city she has called home for more than three decades. The mighty Fraser River, the iconic bridges, the majestic West Coast mountains, and the lush rainforests are recurring motifs that shape her artistic narrative.

WORDS & ARTWORK BY LANTA MENG PORTRAIT PHOTO BY RODRIGO SARRAT-CAVE

Meng is represented by the Van Dop Gallery in New Westminster. Her paintings have been exhibited at the Amelia Douglas Gallery, Petley Jones Gallery, the New Westminster Cultural Crawl, and the Arts Council of New Westminster. Her work is widely collected across Canada and internationally.

“Tugboat at Night”, 30” x 30”

7 Patullo Bridge”, 30” x 30”

“Tugboat and Paddlewheeler”, 24” x 48”

“A View of Pattullo Bridge from Victoria Hill” by Lanta Meng

Oil on canvas painting, 30" x 40"

FEATURE PAINTING As an artist who has lived in New Westminster for the past three decades, I have been fortunate to find endless inspiration throughout the city. The Fraser River, majestic Mount Baker, iconic bridges, log booms, and tugboats in the Sapperton area have frequently appeared in my paintings.

Several friends approached me with the wish to preserve the memory of the original Pattullo Bridge by commissioning a painting. This work is one of the pieces I created for friends who live in the Victoria Hill area, capturing a familiar landmark that has long been part of our shared landscape and history.

Over the past two to three years, we have been living alongside the massive construction of the new Pattullo Bridge. We have heard the pounding of pile drilling, endured traffic congestion, and watched as enormous steel structures were assembled piece by piece. While we eagerly anticipate the completion of the new bridge in 2026, we are also aware that the 80-year-old Pattullo Bridge will soon retire. Once the new bridge is completed, the old structure will eventually be dismantled. During this time, several friends approached me with the wish to preserve the memory of the original Pattullo Bridge by commissioning a painting. This work is one of the pieces I created for friends who live in the Victoria Hill area, capturing a familiar landmark that has long been part of our shared landscape and history.

Get in touch: Website: www.lanta.ca Email: lantameng@yahoo.ca Instagram: @lanta_meng 8

Neza Coffee: Brewing Community, Quality, and Purpose in Every Cup WORDS BY NADINE UMUTONI COFFEE CART PHOTOS BY @THEGIANTSPICTURES_CANADA

Nadine’s journey is deeply connected to her Rwandan heritage. Growing up in a farming family, she developed a strong appreciation for land, sustainability, and the people behind every harvest. Today, Neza Coffee sources premium, organic, and Fair Trade beans directly from family farms and neighbouring women-led cooperatives in Rwanda.

Neza Coffee is a Vancouver-based specialty coffee company rooted in quality, community, and meaningful impact. Founded in 2022 by entrepreneur and New West resident Nadine Umutoni, Neza Coffee was built with a clear intention: to offer exceptional coffee while creating positive change both locally and abroad. Nadine’s journey is deeply connected to her Rwandan heritage. Growing up in a farming family, she developed a strong appreciation for land, sustainability, and the people behind every harvest. Today, Neza Coffee sources premium, organic, and Fair Trade beans directly from family farms and neighbouring women-led cooperatives in Rwanda. This direct relationship ensures fair compensation for farmers and consistent, high-quality beans for customers. Once imported to Canada, the coffee is roasted and packaged in Vancouver to preserve freshness and flavour. Neza Coffee offers a range of carefully crafted roasts, from smooth and balanced medium roasts to rich, bold dark profiles. Each bag reflects attention to detail, ethical sourcing, and a genuine love for coffee. Beyond the cup, Neza Coffee is driven by its social mission, known as A Cup of Hope. A portion of every purchase supports mental health services for genocide survivors, making each order a contribution to healing and long-term community support. This mission resonates strongly with customers who want their everyday choices to have a meaningful impact.

New Westminster residents can explore Neza Coffee’s full selection online at nezacoffee.com, where fresh coffee is available for local delivery and Canada-wide shipping. To celebrate being featured in the community, Neza Coffee is offering 10 per cent off online orders with the promo code “Brewerydistrict”, making it a perfect time to stock up or gift a thoughtfully sourced coffee. In addition to packaged coffee, Neza Coffee has recently expanded its offerings with the Neza Coffee Cart, a mobile coffee service available for private events, weddings, offices, corporate gatherings, and special celebrations. The cart brings barista-quality espresso drinks and warm hospitality directly to events, creating an elevated and memorable experience for guests. Whether enjoyed at home, shared as a gift, or served at a special event, Neza Coffee represents more than great taste. It is a story of resilience, community, and purpose, thoughtfully brewed into every cup. Visit nezacoffee.com to order online, book the Neza Coffee Cart, and experience coffee that truly gives back.

Get 10% off with code: Brewerydistrict

Get in touch: Website: nezacoffee.com Email: info@nezacoffee.com Phone: 604-781-6922 Instagram: @nezacoffee Facebook: Neza Coffee

Winter BINGO! What things can you find around the neighbourhood? 11

What is your favourite thing to do in the winter? Draw or write about it.

Find the words:

W B

N U

SKI

O P

FUN

O W B

L L

WINTER SNOWBALL

SWEATER FROZEN

O 12

WORDS BY MALLORY GLADMAN PHOTOS BY JEN + BRIAN PHOTO & FILM, COURTNEY HEALEY PHOTOGRAPHY, J&H CREATIVE CO, LEANNE SIM PHOTOGRAPHY, SACHIN KHONA PHOTOGRAPHY, STEFANIE FOURNIER PHOTOGRAPHY, & MALLORY GLADMAN

Have you ever been to a wedding and wondered where all of the leftover food and flowers go when it ends? That’s where the idea for WasteKnot Weddings and Events began. When I used to work in special events as a catering staff member, I saw the shocking amount of food waste, leftover flowers, and other single-use decorations after each wedding or event. I thought to myself: there has to be another way to lower the waste production and overall environmental impact of a singular celebratory event. The planner has the ability to think about preventative measures to achieve this, so I decided that would be a great idea to explore when I moved to Vancouver in 2020. I have always loved weddings and have been the unofficial "event planner” for all family gatherings since I can remember. I loved pulling out the "nice china” in my parent’s house for holidays and special occasions, so it seems only natural that this path has led me to where I am today. After shadowing and assisting several post-Covid weddings and events in the Pacific Northwest, I saw a need for more sustainably-minded wedding and event planners here in the lower mainland. In February 2022, I launched WasteKnot Weddings and Events, offering unique, earth-conscious wedding and event planning services in the greater Vancouver area. I started booking clients that aligned with WasteKnot’s core “eco-values” for those who want to celebrate responsibly. WasteKnot currently offers planning and coordination services for: weddings (up to 100 guests), community business events and nonprofit organization events, and corporate events (up to 800 attendees). Our flexible hourly planning services and on-site coordination services offer transparency and affordability, helping WasteKnot remain an inclusive and community-focused company. Pricing: Starts at $25.00 per hour for the first 15 hours of planning (minimum), with gradual increases thereafter. On-site coordination services start at $900 for 8 hours. Terms and conditions apply. Head to wasteknot.ca to learn more.

Artificial Intelligence cannot plan or coordinate a wedding or event for you. It might help you get started and come up with fun ideas, but you need someone who:

knows which venues and vendors book out quickly for priority planning asks the important questions when looking for the perfect venue knows which vendors are reliable and care about the environment (sustainable catering companies that compost and have more plantbased options, organic and sustainable local flower farms, responsible printing options, etc.) will check in with everyone involved two weeks before the event to ensure proper Timeline details can coordinate and facilitate the event in person for a smooth, stress-free day for all

I also offer Custom wedding dance choreography and lessons to make your First Dance special and unique to your personalities and abilities. You do not have to have prior dance experience to learn a simple but meaningful dance with your partner. I have over 15 years of dance teaching experience for all ages, levels, and styles. Let me help you create a memorable dance to wow your guests!

I saw the shocking amount of food waste, leftover flowers, and other single-use decorations after each wedding or event. I thought to myself: there has to be another way to lower the waste production and overall environmental impact of a singular celebratory event.

How to Book WasteKnot’s Services: Head to wasteknot.ca to book your free consultation, or email directly at wasteknotca@gmail.com. Let’s plan a responsible event together! Cheers, Mallory Gladman Founder and Lead Planner, WasteKnot Weddings and Events

Get in touch: Website: wasteknot.ca Email: wasteknotca@gmail.com Instagram: @wasteknot_weddings_events Facebook: WasteKnot Weddings and Events 15

Assistant Lily

The Sapperton Business Collective had a great time at Light Up Sapperton on December 7, 2025. Thank you to all who came out to participate in or attend the event, and especially to our Event Partners: Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation, Wesgroup, City of New Westminster, TransLink, and Loren Nancke.

PHOTOS BY ROWENA HUANG

Cap’ s Bicycle Shop: A Sapperton Classic with Deep Local Roots WORDS BY CHRIS NYBOM & TIPS BY SEBASTIAN MIRAGLIA IMAGES PROVIDED BY CAP’S NEW WEST (SEBASTIAN MIRAGLIA & CHRIS NYBOM), & HISTORIC PHOTOS ARE THANKS TO GORDON HOBBIS OF THE TWOWHEELTIMEMACHINE BICYCLE MUSEUM

Get ready to ride this year!

Cap’s Bicycle Shop has been part of New Westminster’s Sapperton neighbourhood for generations, and its story stretches back nearly a century. It all began in 1932, when Gerald “Cap” Hobbis and his brothers started a small repair shop in the basement of their family home. What began as a modest neighbourhood service quickly grew, surviving the Depression and wartime years as the brothers expanded into bicycles, sporting goods, motorcycles, household items, and hardware. Whatever Sapperton needed, the Hobbis brothers found a way to provide it, helping to shape the growing community around them.

Check and inflate the tires: Look for dry, cracked rubber and replace the tire if any cracks are found. Be careful while inflating, as the tire bead can unseat and come off the rim. Slowly shift through all gears to make sure the full range works. Be extra cautious in the lowest and highest gears. If the bike fell while in storage the derailleur hanger could have bent, causing the chain to easily come off the cassette. Check the brake pads: Rim brake pads should feel like rubber (not plastic) and still show a visible wear indicator. Disc brake pads should have enough material left so they are at least as thick as a dime.

As bicycles became more popular, Cap’s focused its energy on what it did best: selling and servicing bikes. The Hobbis family grew along with the business, and Cap’s four sons and two nephews helped transform the shop into Canada’s largest independent bicycle retailer; all while keeping the welcoming, family-run atmosphere that local riders still appreciate today. Community involvement has always been at the heart of Cap’s. The shop has hosted family-friendly events such as the Sapperton Street Festival and supported local programs like the New Westminster Police Soccer School. For many longtime residents, a highlight of the store was the hidden “Free Museum” in the basement. Cap himself loved guiding school groups through the eclectic collection of pioneer-era artifacts, from Model T cars to Dr. Learn’s 1930 examination table.

Check that all components are tight: Gently twist the handlebars against the front wheel to confirm they do not move. Clean the chain, then apply lubricant and wipe off any excess. Wipe down and clean the bike to remove dust and old dirt. A clean bike runs better and faster.

Need a hand? We can help! Just bring your bike by the shop and we will get you all set.

Cap’s youngest son, Gordon, continues that tradition through Western Canada’s only bicycle museum, a blend of his father’s original collection and his own rare and antique bicycles. (You can explore more at TwoWheelTimeMachine.com.) Today, Cap’s occupies a spacious 5,000-square-foot storefront, proudly displaying its original 1950 neon sign. Inside, you’ll find an extensive lineup of bicycles and electric-assist models; everything from kids bikes and easygoing cruisers to trail-ready mountain bikes and highperformance road machines. Skilled mechanics and knowledgeable staff round out the experience, offering dependable repairs, maintenance, and advice for every type of rider. Cap’s long history shows up in photos as well; a truck piled high with bicycles during the 10-speed boom of 1972, or riders on penny-farthings rolling past the May Day Parade review stand in 1962.

Cap’s four sons and two nephews helped transform the shop into Canada’s largest independent bicycle retailer; all while keeping the welcoming, family-run atmosphere that local riders still appreciate today. Store manager Sebastian has been part of the Cap’s team for more than seven years. On weekends, you’ll often find him out riding his Specialized Tero e-bike with his wife, Gaby, on her Como IGH. They enjoy exploring the gravel routes of Pitt Meadows and Port Coquitlam or weaving through the trails of North Vancouver’s Demonstration Forest. Other staff bikes have seen equally memorable adventures; from winter commutes along the Central Valley Greenway to island-hopping trips like the one captured in the photo of two bikepacking rigs on Mayne Island. For newcomers settling into Sapperton, Cap’s is more than a bike shop - it’s a welcoming piece of local history, still rolling strong after more than 90 years.

See you soon! 434a Columbia St E, New Westminster Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 12pm-5pm www.capsbicycleshop.com info-capsnw@specialized.com 604-524-3611 Instagram: @capsbicycleshop Facebook: Cap’s Bicycle Shop

Ruffly Speaking: A Podcast for People Who Love Dogs, and Love Talking About Them What sets Ruffly Speaking apart is its heart. Laura and Olivia highlight the messy, imperfect, and joyful side of living side by side with dogs where learning is ongoing and progress isn’t always linear.

BY LAURA GARCIA & OLIVIA LAM

Dogs shape our lives in big ways, small ways, and often in ways we don’t fully notice until someone helps us see it. Ruffly Speaking, a new podcast hosted by local dog trainers Laura Garcia and Olivia Lam, was created for exactly that reason: to explore the human–dog relationship with curiosity, honesty, and a deep appreciation for the joy (and occasional chaos) of living with dogs. This isn’t a podcast for dog trainers - it’s for anyone who has ever shared their life with a dog (big or small), and wondered what’s really going on behind the wagging tail, the quirky habits, or the moments that make us laugh and cry. Each episode dives into a single story, idea, or perspective that expands the way we understand our dogs and ourselves. Through warm, conversational interviews and open reflections, Laura and Olivia invite listeners into a space where questions are welcomed, assumptions are challenged, and learning feels both accessible and fun. Together, the hosts bring a unique blend of expertise and lived experience. Laura, owner and founder of Curious Snoots (based here in New West!), is known for her thoughtful, curious approach to dog behaviour and her passion for helping people better understand their dogs as individuals. Olivia, founder of Olive Bark Dog Training (based in Port Coquitlam), brings lived experience as a reactive-dog parent, supporting humans with empathy and kindness through the emotional work of behaviour change. Both trainers believe that the best conversations about dogs happen when judgment is left at the door something Ruffly Speaking wholeheartedly embraces.

Topics range widely but all circle back to the same core idea: dogs are complex, sentient, and emotional beings, and our relationship with them is one of the most meaningful connections many of us will ever have. Listeners can expect episodes exploring dog behaviour and communication, human behaviour (because our dogs often reflect our own patterns back to us), cultural perspectives on life with dogs, and insights from trainers, pet professionals, and everyday dog parents. You won’t hear rigid rules or one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, you’ll find real stories, real challenges, and real moments of growth that remind us why dogs matter so much.

Watch Ruffly Speaking episodes on YouTube!

What sets Ruffly Speaking apart is its heart. Laura and Olivia highlight the messy, imperfect, and joyful side of living side by side with dogs - where learning is ongoing and progress isn’t always linear. Their goal isn’t to teach people how to achieve “perfect training,” but to help listeners understand their dogs more deeply and appreciate the lessons that come from living alongside another species. Whether you’re fascinated by dog behaviour, passionate about human–animal relationships, or simply comforted by the presence of a warm snout and a wagging tail, Ruffly Speaking offers conversations that feel both grounding and inspiring. If you love dogs and love getting curious about them, this is a podcast where you’ll feel right at home. Laura Garcia & Olivia Lam

Follow along: You can find Ruffly Speaking on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RufflySpeakingPod Email: hellorufflyspeaking@gmail.com Instagram Accounts: Ruffly Speaking: @rufflyspeakingpodcast Olivia: @oliviatrainsdogs Laura: @very.curious.lau Curious Snoots: @curioussnoots Learn more about us: curioussnoots.com and olivebark.ca 20

Meet our Feature Pet WORDS BY KITTY LY (ON BEHALF OF BENJI!) IMAGES BY KITTY LY & JEREMY HANNAFORD

Hi, I’m Benji, a 13-year-old short-haired orange tabby. I was born in Surrey, BC, and had two cat siblings, but I was very young when I moved away, so I don’t really remember them. When I was five months old, I met my mom. She brought me to what I thought was a mansion. (She says it wasn’t, but to me it felt huge - with endless rooms, tall places to climb, and secret hiding spots.) My favourite was my aunt’s closet, where I left little fur gifts on her clothes. Later, Mom introduced me to my dad. He fit into my life right away. He keeps my toilet spotless, brushes away my fur, and makes me tasty meals. My favourite food used to be chicken, but I’m allergic, so now my pawrents make sure I still eat really well. These days, I live in New Westminster with my pawrents. Since 2020, Mom has been home with me most of the day, and that’s been the best change ever. Before, I had to wait until night for cuddles, but now I get pets and hugs whenever I want. My favourite time is after 4pm when she sits on the couch and I curl up in her lap. Sometimes I nap on the bed in her workroom, but she always says, “don’t tell Dad.”

I’m very affectionate with my family. I follow my pawrents everywhere like the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. If they’re moving, I’m moving. If they’re sitting, I’m in their arms or on their lap. Being close to them is when I feel happiest. But with strangers… I’m what my pawrents call “spicy.” New smells and unexpected guests make me nervous, and sometimes my big emotions come out as hisses or swats. I’m not trying to be mean. I just need space until I feel safe. My pawrents say I’m still working on my temperament, but I just prefer the people I know best. So, if you visit, please give me room. I will hang out nearby to keep watch but cuddles and pets are reserved for my pawrents only!

Happy & pawspurrous Mew Year!

Follow Benji: Instagram: @benji_thecat

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Katherine Hall is a REALTOR® at Dexter Realty. 560 – 2608 Granville Street Vancouver, BC V6H 3V3 This communication is not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. © 2026 River District Living Ltd. All Rights Reserved