True Blue, Baby I Love You

Whenever I'm out and about in Winnipeg I can't help but notice all the vehicles sporting the new Blue Bomber licence plate. The team has given us a fair bit of heartbreak over the years, but this city still bleeds blue. I love that the team has chosen to dust off the old logo and jerseys--still my favourite look, probably because it was what the team wore when I was being introduced to the game.

And the Jets are back. I remember them leaving and not really understanding the big deal of it all. I'd only ever seen a couple of games from up in the nosebleeds courtesy of some free tickets that got donated to school patrols.

But oh how this city has pined for the return of that team. They told us for years that it would never happen, that the Winnipeg market was just too small to support a team anymore. I'll admit I shook my head at the ones who clung to hope. It was a long wait, but all the stars lined up, and now after a 15 year absence our beloved team will play for us again. You want to talk about patience and believing in a dream? Ask a Winnipeg Jets fan. Or an Ikea fan, 'cause we're getting one of those next year too.

Winnipeggers are notorious for being quiet about their civic pride. I know I don't chirp about the place. (Funny, I have the radio on right now and they're replaying a spoof PSA to Jets players about the wonders of Winnipeg. Most restaurants per capita in North America!) Modesty is an honourable trait.

Around the city now I feel a definite change in energy. I imagine if Canada was to have a reunion of sorts with all of the capital cities, Winnipeg would show up and people would drop their beer. Little Winnipeg, who used to be so shy and awkward, has finally grown into herself. She's looking hot.

I never really felt that Winnipeg was part of my identity. My home is here. My work is here. My family is here, but I can still be me anywhere else. I wouldn't lose part of myself if I left. But I identify with this city's recent blossoming and the step up into the now. It fills me with energy and determination. If Winnipeg can reach for her dreams, endure the bumps and challenges along the way and come out shining in the prairie sun, so can I.