The master-planned vision for Calgary's East Village revitalization, launched in the mid-2000s, is becoming a living, breathing reality, now more than ever.

Alain Dupere has lived in East Village since 2011. He's watching the transformation happen one day at a time, observing the changes while he walks to and from work. Dupere, who is also president of the East Village Neighbourhood Association, says that although the area is still under construction, its vibrancy is increasing as more buildings become move-in ready and amenities continue to pop up.

"It's a great place to live and to visit. Anyone can use the amenities in our neighbourhood," he said. "It's becoming a destination for the greater Calgary (area) and beyond, and that's a nice thing."

Some might believe that the excitement around this developing community, and the desire to live and work there, are new phenomena. But according to Harry Sanders, Calgary's former historian laureate, it's not far off from the activities of the space over a century ago, when non-indigenous people first arrived in the area often referred to as the "birthplace of Calgary."

Well, a fella has a right to celebrate something as unique and remarkable as his first 50-goal season with a little extravagance, doesn't he?

Making sure your dream renovation doesn't turn into a nightmare means doing some due diligence before signing on the dotted line.

Renovation expert and HGTV superstar Bryan Baeumler has fond memories of his first home, a small, 50-year-old bungalow that he purchased and renovated with his wife, Sarah, who is an interior designer.

Iconic status was off in the future for the 22-year-old winger. The bushy moustache had yet to grow out and become a trademark.

Famous entrepreneur and television personality Manjit Minhas has no problem remembering the first home she ever bought in Calgary.

It's because she's still living in it 13 years later.