Creating an Amazing Life in Pretty River Valley

I’m excited to share an interview with one of my closest friends and equestrian coach, Becky DeHaas. A long-time country resident, Becky has created a home, lifestyle, and business in the Pretty River area, just outside of Collingwood. Her insight as to the magic of country living creates a compelling case for settling in the rolling hills of the region.

1. Tell us a little bit about how you ended up at your beautiful Pretty River home?

We moved to Collingwood in 1996, selecting it as we had skied up here as teenagers. We also had a good community of friends that had settled in the area post-university. We loved the land, as well as the focus on outdoor activities, and there were a variety of restaurants and quality schools, which have continued to grow over time. We knew our home was the one for us the moment we saw it. 

2. You have two lovely children aged 11 and age 17. How do you think they have benefitted from growing up in the country?  

Natalia, 17, and Alex, 11, take advantage of the outdoor sports in the area. We live on 30 acres that back onto the Pretty River Provincial Park, which gives them a huge outdoor playground with lots of wildlife. Natalia has taken up competitive horseback riding and she spends a ton of time at the farm riding and helping me. The kids have really benefited from having such active lifestyles, as well as having like-minded friends.

3. Can you describe your home and property in a nutshell? 

We live in a heritage square-cut log home, set on a property with rolling hills and a mixed forest. The home is truly charming, and features a stunning view of the valley out of our north-facing windows. The property even has a stream running through it, a tributary that connects us to the Pretty River. My husband Rob Saley is an artist. He paints out of a large studio in our home filled with natural light and a view of nature. Perfect for a landscape artist to get inspiration.

4. How have you tackled keeping your home updated and renovated as needed? Some people get worried about maintaining log homes. What are your thoughts? 

Our log home has needed maintenance but there have been good professionals to help us as needed. The design is functional – the log design naturally maintains heat in the winter while keeping it cool in the summer, allowing us to stay cool with fans. No need for air conditioning!

The 30-acre property is something we intentionally kept as low maintenance as possible, using native perennial plants and wildflowers throughout our landscaping. The summer sees us using our large bonfire pit, which we built for gatherings with friends, as well as a way to clean up brush and maintain the property. 

5. Living up in the country has allowed you to become a full-time professional equestrian– can you tell us about your current business and stable?  

For the last 16 years, I’ve been lucky to have my own business, DeHaas Equestrian. I’m a national equestrian coach, training horses and coaching riders to reach their competition goals. We operate out of the beautiful Deer Lake Farm in Singhampton, a 1000-acre farm with a private lake. It is hard work, and the winters can bring a lot of snow and cold, but the summers make it worth it. We can train horses in the outdoor rings, or hack for many miles around the lake!  

6. What advice would you offer anyone looking to make the move to the country?

Country living allows for a great quality of life, giving you bigger homes and properties to explore. The people are fantastic, with no shortage of diverse and interesting company. I have found strong community support and friendships during our time living in the area. The country also encourages outdoor life, rich with activities. Happy families and happy pets are all around – we all love the country.