Gratitude

Sunrise Chronicles: Capturing the Magic of Piper's Lagoon

Sunrise Chronicles: Capturing the Magic of Piper's Lagoon
Arriving at the beach, my breath caught when I saw the horizon—an opening in the clouds painted the mountains in deep orange, while those above tinted pink. Using my tripod to steady my phone, I captured the magical transition from dawn to twilight.

Capturing Splash Photos With Your Smartphone

Capturing Splash Photos With Your Smartphone
Let's venture behind the scenes, and I'll unveil the secrets behind capturing my splash photos with my smartphone. There's a handful of crucial factors to contemplate when setting up these shots.

How distracted are you?

How distracted are you?
Years ago, I delved into the concept of multitasking and discovered that it's more of a fallacy than a reality. Unlike computers, our brains can truly focus on only one task at a time. What we often perceive as multitasking is, in fact, a constant switching between various tasks. This realization made it clear how challenging it can be to maintain focus and productivity.

Witnessing the Northern Lights in Lantzville on Vancouver Island

Witnessing the Northern Lights in Lantzville on Vancouver Island
I had been closely monitoring the Aurora app all day, eagerly watching the KP levels. A massive coronal mass ejection (CME) from the sun had hinted at the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights from our location. Around 7 pm, an alert from the app sealed the deal, and I hurriedly made my way to Lantzville Beach. A few fellow enthusiasts joined me on the shore, armed with comfy chairs and cozy blankets, just in case we were in for an extended night. The weather forecast had predicted clouds, but to our delight, the horizon remained clear upon our arrival.

How Do You Describe an Enchanting Sunrise?

How Do You Describe an Enchanting Sunrise?
Describing the enchanting scene I witnessed at dawn has proven to be one of the more challenging pieces of writing I've tackled in recent times. As I pulled into the Piper's Lagoon parking lot just past 6 am, a few cars were already scattered about. The morning held an air of something extraordinary, urging me to hasten toward the water's edge, where I stood alone on the beach. A gentle breeze whispered through my hair, prompting me to pull up my hood to ward off the morning chill that nipped at the back of my neck. It was an unusual amalgamation of clouds and forest fire smoke that adorned the horizon, a sight unlike any I had ever beheld.

From Flames to Finish Line: Reflecting on 20 Years Since My Unforgettable Ironman Amidst Wildfires

From Flames to Finish Line: Reflecting on 20 Years Since My Unforgettable Ironman Amidst Wildfires
Twenty years ago this week marked my inaugural encounter with wildfires. Embarking on a journey from Ontario to Penticton, I was brimming with anticipation for my first-ever Ironman triathlon, set against the backdrop of Penticton's Lake Okanagan. The present-day wildfires in the Kelowna region draw eerie parallels to the Okanagan Mountain Fire of August 2003, an event that forced 27,000 individuals to evacuate their homes. Amidst this turmoil, athletes from around the globe congregated near the shores of Lake Okanagan, determined to confront the arduous trials that the Ironman entails. Our race hung precariously on the brink of cancellation, our year-long preparation and the pursuit of lifelong aspirations extinguished. At the same time, we felt the collective pain of a community that was on the verge of losing everything. 

Do You Have a Sunrise Intuition?

Do You Have a Sunrise Intuition?
I had an intuitive sense even before leaving my house that the sunrise would be a spectacle of colors. Although the horizon isn't visible from my window, I had a hunch that the scattered clouds would permit the sun's rays to penetrate and paint a breathtaking backdrop as it ascended. Sending a quick text to my photo buddy as I hopped into the car, I made my way to Piper's Lagoon in a flutter of excitement.

Have You Seen a Rainbow Around the Sunrise?

Have You Seen a Rainbow Around the Sunrise?

Navigating the rocks with care, I settled near the shore and took cover behind a large rock, where the crashing waves provided an exciting backdrop. While awaiting the sunrise, I noticed something peculiar. The horizon above the coastal mountains seemed to emit a radiant glow, resembling a rainbow.

Life Without Social Media, is it Possible?

Life Without Social Media, is it Possible?
It's been ten days since my departure from social media. Life feels more relaxed and I'm less tied to my phone. That being said, there are still ways to scroll mindlessly, even without Facebook. I'm learning to let go and allow more space for my own creativity, instead of letting the ideas of others fill my head. Meditation is on my 'list' although I've been mostly avoiding it. Perhaps I'm not ready to be alone with my inner roommate as Michael Singer calls it.

Studying The Untether Soul - Chapter 3 Who am I?

Studying The Untether Soul - Chapter 3 Who am I?
Who am I?
Seems like a simple question to answer. Or is it? I'm on chapter 3 of The Untethered Soul, continuing my journey of studying a chapter each week.
Let's start with who I'm not:
I am not my name.
I am not my relationship to others - not a mother, sister, daughter, wife or friend.
I am not my physical body.
I am not the outside world.
I am not my fears or other emotions.
I am not my thoughts, rather I am aware of my thoughts.

Embracing the Gift of Another Day with a Sunrise Swim

Embracing the Gift of Another Day with a Sunrise Swim
I thought I could indulge in some extra sleep. With that intention, I turned off my alarm and nestled into bed by 9 PM. However, my body had other plans, and I found myself awake before 5 AM. The sky was clear once again, but the irresistible pull of the water compelled me to make my way to the beach.

Sunrise Splashes to Start Your Day

Sunrise Splashes to Start Your Day
Sitting in my garden at 8 am, I already feel a sense of fulfillment as if I've experienced a complete day. The clear skies and warm sunshine warms my feet, following a refreshing morning swim with a friend. I've sorted through the photos I captured earlier and chosen my favorite to share with you.