Alison Bruce has watched a lot of kids from Westwood Public School grow up over the years.
According to the City of Guelph, Bruce is the city's longest-serving school crossing guard, having manned her post at the intersection of Willow Road and Westwood Road for seven years.
"I love the kids. I can't say I always like the weather, but I love the kids," Bruce said.
"When I started here my kids were going here (to Willow Road school) and I've seen lots of kids grow up. A lot of them remember me as they get older."
She was out there shortly after 8 a.m. Friday in minus -11 C weather.
A somewhat fitting day for National School Crossing Guard Appreciation Day.
"I had no expectations when I went into it. I was surprised to find out that I had been doing it for seven years," Bruce said.
She took the job for some extra steady income and "to get away from the computer" where she does most of her other work.
"A lot of the time it feels like a break to be able to come outside and get away from the computer," she said.
Christine Vettor with the City of Guelph said there are 37 full-time and nine spare adult crossing guards in the city who cover 31 different intersections.
The city took over the program since 2004.
Bruce is a busy lady. The crossing guard gig works around her main work as an author (she has published several mystery, suspense and historical western novels) and is a freelance writer and editor.
Does Bruce have any advice for Guelph's drivers?
"Watch out. Be aware. Pay attention. You always have to pay attention," she said. "I've become a much better driver since I became a crossing guard."
