When I first moved to North Vancouver from Vancouver, which is really a mere bridge length away, I met some families who swear they avoid crossing the Strait whenever possible. I thought that was ludicrous…never cross the bridge to Vancouver?! What about Granville Island, Mt. Pleasant, Gastown, Kitsilano? ALL THE FOOD is on the other side!!

Now that I’ve been a North Shore resident for almost 8 years, I get it. There is so much to do here. Run the trails, hike the trails, bike the trails, ski the trails, ALL THE TRAILS. And the trails take you everywhere from east to west, along the beaches and up to the mountains. You don’t really run out of options for outdoor things to do.

This family takes it to a whole other level. They live in Lynn Valley on the North Shore, where it feels like more rain lands there than most places in Vancouver. But all that extra rain also brings the most beautiful lush forests and ferns, which happens to be their backyard. Imagine waking up and being in the forest and hitting the trails that are spitting distance away.

Rain, Schmain. Slap on those boots, rain pants/muddy buddies and into the forest to find the biggest puddles to jump.

It just so happens that on the weekend we’re together, there was a reptile exhibit at the Ecological Centre. Imagine my “sheer” delight that they decided to check out some snakes and lizards…believe me, I really leaned into my fears and discomfort that day! To really throw in the Canadiana, there was hockey practice and a rink side dinner to end the day. We are blessed with hockey rinks on the North Shore and dedicated parents who watch, cheer, and coach.

I feel so lucky being in the company of this awesome family, spending a whole day with them, and seeing the changes from 2.5 years ago and the present. Some things haven’t changed, like bedtime routines of reading and music, or quiet time in the afternoons. But their kids have grown, obviously bigger, but also transformed into these little humans who are curious and kind, hilarious and resilient. Not surprising really, considering the degree of thoughtfulness executed by their parents everyday.

C+J, the days may still feel exhausting I’m sure. You are entering or in a phase where you may not need to attend immediately to their every requests, and can sit back and see the evolution of their personality take place, yet you are busier in helping foster their interests and friendships and find their place in this world. And from where I stand, you’re doing a damn good job of it. Thank you so much for inviting me back into the fold…there is always gratitude in our time spent together. Here is your Day in the Life Story.

To book a session with me for a birth, newborn, or family life story, simply contact me and we can start chatting about what’s important to you and your family to remember, years from now.