Hello again friends!

This summer, I have had the incredible privilege of taking some time to just be. I pressed pause on a few things (mostly social media), took a step back and enjoyed time with my family. Whether bird watching with a cup of coffee, crocheting a blanket, or roasting marshmallows around the fire (wow this is really making me sound like a granny LOL), I let the days unfold slowly and took some time to think, breathe, read, and reflect.

September has always felt like the "true" New Year to me. The fresh air just calls for a fresh start. It's when I set intentions, revisit my goals and think about my direction. This year, as the summer air already starts to cool (a little too early for my liking) I've decided to try my hand at blogging.

I had the immense privledge to run as the Liberal candidate in the 2025 federal election. It's something I have always wanted to do and while I didnt win, I am truly so proud of what we accomplished. Over 17,000 votes for a first-time candidate in a long-held conservative riding is pretty amazing if I do say so myself. But in order to win next time, I obviously need more, so how do I keep the momentum going and earn your trust for the next election?

I've taken a lot of time this summer to think about this question and think through the traditional "rules of engagement" for politicians. Theres a piece of it that has just never sat well with me. Simply put, I am not a fan of political theatre. The photo ops. The polished, completely fabricated moments designed to make politicians look good. The overly scripted ads with perfect hair and makeup. I mean I get it, politicians are heavily scrutinized (as they should be) so some level of polish and intent is certainly warranted. And while I hate the photo ops they do serve an important purpose...they give you a glimpse into the type of organizations, occasions and people our politicians priotize and show up for.

During the campaign I rarely took photos while door knocking, not because I wasn't proud of the work, but because I believe to my core in showing up with hands ready to help, not just hold a camera. I believe in showing up for the community everyday not just when it looks good. I believe in being authentic even when that means messy crazy pony tails and ripped jeans. I believe in present in the moment, i mean really truly there with you. Ready to listen, to help, to advocate, to educate. No pretense, no show and dance, just human connection.

But I really do want to represent you in the House one day. I have four years to earn your trust and you deserve to know how and when I show up, how I engage with our community and how I advocate for you. You also deserve to see my true authentic (sometimes messy and imperfect) self. So instead of posting the same boring rhetoric on Facebook continuously putting down the opposition or perfectly polished images on Instagram of me shaking hands without an context, I thought I would try blogging instead. Of course, I'll link the articles to my socials so folks know what I've been up to but I hope this is a more authentic way of helping you get to know me and what I stand for.

I hope you will follow along as I post blogs about all the things that make me me. Political commentary, ADHD tips and tricks, gluten-free cooking (because I am celiac), business resources, local news and everything in between. In the coming days I'll post some updates on what I've been up to since the election and what I'm planning next.

-Blair

P.s. We took Snickers out in a kayak this summer and I'll let you judge if he enjoyed it or not