This weekend we had the 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT to help us get to where we need to be at a fraction of the cost. A welcomed whip of the week considering the pricy season that just past. Between the dinners and the presents, it was nice to be able to save and spend only 1/4 of our regular gas bill.
We already got a feel of the 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium version at the beginning of the month, so was looking for the differences with the GT now. Same body kit, a lean four door that looks like a coup. No handles, but a push button release hidden within the window frames. This offered a sleek and sporty look along side additional front vents and a grill accented in carbon fibre. On the trunk, a bold and outlined “GT” replaces the Mustang logo.
Within, the interior has a pattern over its plastic dash and door, a tinted metallic silver with black straight and diagonal lines intersecting. It added some panache surrounding the iPad-like centre console.
And the most sporty feature of the 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT are the front seats. Bucketed with shoulder and lumbar support.
We enjoyed the ride, but found the need to charge mid way though the week with only our regular commuting. We charged at the warning of low batter life, a total of 4 times throughout our two weeks with the vehicle. 30 minutes at the super charge pump was equivalent to over 50% battery. We did feel this to be quicker than that of their premium model.
We thought it would be poetic if we took our eco-vehicle for a tour to see Burnaby’s eco-sculptures. For those unfamiliar, Burnaby is home to a series of quirky animal inhabitants made out of plant material. They seem to pop up overnight in parks and public spaces and finding them can be a bit of a scavenger hunt. In years past we saw Little Bo Peep and her sheep in front of the Church on Willingdon by Parker, and a gathering of lady bugs and butterflies on Kensington Ave by the sports centre and archery field. I have spotted salmon jumping up stream, merry-go-round horses with pole, and inquisitive looking owls.
This is a wonderful free installation for anyone come by and enjoy. A project that started in 2003 with the collection since growing to 80 sculptures, replanted and recreated every spring. The city has an interactive map on its website that guides people who want to explore this collection. There are currently 5 holiday themed scenes, curated lavishly with backdrops. We were able to visit 4 out of the 5 before light rain turned into a heavy pelting. Available day or night, I prefer visiting during the day when I can appreciate the variety of leaves, berries, and dried twigs being used in each piece.
Of the ones I visited, a handful even offered photo ops with the ability to sit on a stool by the “bed”, climb into a carriage, and hop into a sleigh.
“Carriage and Frogs” is located at Burnaby Mountain Park, within walking distance of its entrance at 150 Centennial Way, Burnaby. The name explains it well: 2 large frogs with proportionately large feet.
The assumption is the male with top hat and cufflinks has just proposed to the female frog in crown and white go-go boots.
The female frog, more casual in her crushes velvet tights holds out a to-scale diamond ring in show.
Behind them, a metal frame of a carriage trimmed in pine boughs and red berries. This you can climb into or take a seat on for a photo op.
At the McGill Library Complex (250 Willingdon Avenue) the scene is a “Bed-time Story” with a Mama Bear reading the Night Before Christmas to a Baby Goat. The latter is tucked under the covers grasping the wooden equivalent of a teddy bear and a cup of cocoa.
In the background is a fireplace mantle with stockings hung and framed photos of the team behind this and other eco displays.
The “Holiday Tree, Sleigh and Grinch” is at Burnaby City Hall and is the largest of all the displays. Located at the centre island of the intersection at 4949 Canada Way, Burnaby. We parked at the nearby school and made our way to the muddy patch of ground.
You have the trademark Who tree with coiled top, the Grinch dressed as Santa stealing wrapped presents, and his dog ready to tow the sleigh gifts and all. Here you can take a seat in the sleigh for the grand getaway.
Less interactive and more a beautiful piece to take in is the Holiday Narwhal located at Burnaby Village Museum at 6501 Deer Lake Avenue. Set to a backdrop of sparkling lights, this one may have been more magical once the sun set.
And the one we missed out on was a lot further from the others. The “Ice Fishing Penguins” are at the Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre, located at 7789 18th Street. And if is is like any of the others, another awe inspiring piece to build on your festive spirit.
Given their topical relevancy, I am certain these will not be up for much longer and will soon make way for their spring inspirations, with new pieces at new locations.
