It Feels Like Home
Do you have places that feel like “home?”
It may not be the place where you currently live. There are several places I know I could live – but the one where I consistently feel most at home in Canada is Vancouver and Vancouver Island.
Saturday morning my granddaughter and I woke up in Vancouver. We left -35 Celsius and stepped out into +6 Celsius. Now I know that for those of you living in places where the sun actually works, plus 6 C is nothing to brag about. But for us, we were over the moon with no snow, no boots, no sheepskin mittens plus signs of spring.
Signs of Spring
As we walked down the hill towards Olympic Village and Burrard Inlet we spotted snowdrops in bloom, daffodils and tulip shoots; buds on a magnolia tree…even a pansy. I could feel spring fever sneaking up on me and brightening my spirit. The air was amazing, the coastal mountains were glistening and I was sure I could walk all day long, so great was my delight.
Everywhere we looked we saw walkers, runners and cyclists of all ages.
It has been a decade at lease since I was here in January and I had convinced myself that grey and rainy days were all one could expect. Not true. Grey and overcast with fog in the morning followed by sunshine and blue skies in the afternoon. However, the forgotten memory was the ease in which we could step outside and go for a walk with the magnificent backdrop of coastal mountains. This is not to be taken for granted.
21 Days of Hopefulness
Sometimes in life we all need a lift. Returning to a place that feels like home, can work its magic. Naturally going to a brand new place is exhilerating but during these times it is easier to stay inside our own borders. And although familiar, we see it as if for the first time. Seeing new sights, hearing new sounds, doing different things, interacting with new people all inspire a fresh look at the world, and each day something to look forward too.
Travel
Travel is one of the recommendations for people struggling with cancer, in fact, most illness. It’s not always easy yet it is almost always rewarding. Our immune systems, as reflected in our spirits, get to light up and shake off the dust of inertia and weariness.
I love being with my granddaughter on this adventure and intentionally noticing the beautiful gifts of nature. We are creating memories that will be with us for our entire lives. It’s a bit like playing hookie or colouring outside the lines. And we get to do this with our wonderful extended family and friends who are all eager to play with us.
Making Memories
Sometimes life invites us to put aside the practical and to revel in the beauty, love, and fun that warms our hearts. Reminders of the wonders of life and why it is necessary to cast off, now and then. I have regrets in my life but this won’t be one of them.
Making memories with my beautiful granddaughter for 21 days is the reason I am here. Let’s not postpone important things.
“Time is not money. Time is life, Time is love.” Thich Nhat Hanh (October 11, 1926 – Jan 22, 2022)
Notes
1:) Photos – banner photo Sophie; yellow frog and Tree Top Walk Uncle Rob; Water taxi -me
2:) “People usually consider walking on water or in thin air a miracle. But I think the real miracle is not to walk either on water or in thin air, but to walk on earth. Every day we are engaged in a miracle which we don’t even recognize: a blue sky, white clouds, green leaves, the black, curious eyes of a child—our own two eyes. All is a miracle.” ―
3:) Thank you for visiting my blog, week after week. With deep appreciation and all my best wishes for your health, restfulness and moments of joy. See you next week, Trudy
So happy that you and Sophie are making memories.It is a beautiful part of Canada.Pondering on the passing of Thich Nhat Hanh.have read and reread his books many times.Also listened to tapes..we will miss him, but his wisdom will live on in those who try to live mindfully and kindly. Enjoy your gift with Sophie,dear Friend.
Thank you dear Jean. Such a thoughtful note, as always. And yes, TNHanh has left behind an important and loving legacy. Your good wishes are appreciated. Warmly, Trudy
Have a lovely time with your grand daughter in Vancouver. Hopefully Gabriola as well.
Thank you dear Sue. Such a lovely surprise to hear from you. I am now in beautiful Victoria for a few days. I hope our paths cross again. Take care, trudy
Me too Trudy. Will you see our mutual friends?
Yes indeed I will. Looking forward to that and walking the Labyrinth.
Give them my love.
So happy for you and Sophie to have this time together, being in the moment and making memories, such a gift to you both. much love, xoxo
Thanks dear Janice. Having coffee in Victoria this morning on a heated patio. This moment is perfect. Stay warm. Hugs, trudy
Lovely, heartfelt post. Thank you for sharing your adventures with your granddaughter. This is for both of you:
https://emergencemagazine.org/essay/ten-love-letters-to-the-earth/
With metta
What a lovely gift Kathryn. How thoughtful of you. Thanks so very much. Several people will get to enjoy this link beyond Sophie and me. With appreciation, trudy
Enjoy your time in our beautiful province! Glad you are having a little get away.
Big hugs to you and Sophie.
Thank you Teresia. It exceeds my already high expectations. I’m sure you don’t miss the cold. Big hugs, Trudy
Welcome back to BC Trudy. Know you and Sophie are welcome to come and visit here on Salt Spring. Wonderful journey you are making. F xx
Thank you dear Fran. I will be in touch. Big hugs, Trudy
I was listening to a therapist who works with young people on the radio this week, and she actually mentioned that she sees a change in the outlook of patients experiencing burnout just when asked the question of where they would go on holiday if they were given a plane ticket. If that can lift our spirits I can only imagine that actually going away can be so helpful. After reading your post, I actually booked myself a weekend up at an eco centre for the Family Day weekend, and I can’t tell you how much I’m looking forward to it. Thanks Trudy for your weekly insights.
I also am so in love with the quote you have shared in your notes from Thich Nhat Hanh. He is so right that walking on earth is a miracle! What a beautiful way to honour his incredible life by bringing his words to life through sharing your story. Enjoy your time away fully!
Thank you Emma. I am very interested in that therapist’s observations. I do know that travel is helpful – a change of scene as my grandmother would say. And it doesn’t have to be far away either. I am grateful for the opportunity to be here with Sophie.
We have been lucky to live at a time where we have had teachers like Thich Nhat Hanh, Desmond Tutu, Dalai Lama and several other lights in our lives.
So kind of you to write this note and very happy that you have your trip to look forward to. Warmly, Trudy
As always your words are so powerful and meaningful.
I am so happy for you to be creating this memory with Sophie. Such a gift for the both of you. Yes memories to carry and cherish for a life time.
Thank you dear Teresa. As always I deeply appreciate your thoughtful and kind words. Trudy