Yellowknife (Sep 24/04) - Loretta Osmond flew to Yellowknife on what she assumed would be a vacation.

But after stepping off the plane and seeing the city for the first time, she fell in love with the area and decided to stay.

That was almost nine years ago.

"My husband and son were working here at the time and I came up with my youngest daughter to get her work," said Osmond. "I planned to come up for a three week vacation and I've been here ever since."

"I like the place, the work I do and the friends I've made since I've been here. I think Yellowknife just grows on you."

Originally from Port-Aux-Basques, Nfld., Osmond worked at a grocery store before her move to Yellowknife.

Once here, she spent two years working at Tim Hortons before finding employment at the Co-op. She began working in the deli and then started helping out in the bakery until she learned how to bake.

"I have so much fun doing a variety of things that the day goes by so fast. Like they say, time flies when you're having fun."

Osmond is now enjoying her position in the bakery. Along with pre-proofing dough, she bakes and decorates as well.

"I love the job, the atmosphere," she said. "I also have good bosses, so it is a pleasure to work in the Co-op bakery."

Though it is a big change from Newfoundland, with a different terrain and climate, Osmond has no plans to leave the area any time soon.

"All my family is here, including my two grandchildren, so I don't have any reason to leave," she said.

Recently named employee of the month, Osmond intends to keep on working at the Co-op until her retirement.