Shaped By a Child

Often children see life more clearly than grown-ups do. For adults, life is often viewed with all the fuzzy edges that experience, disappointments and living have wrapped around their outlook. But if we really listen to the children in our lives, we will realize that they often 'get it' before we do. We look for the hidden meanings, the double meanings and the nuances. With kids the obvious is right there before their eyes and everything is taken at face value. Children show the world their true selves. What a lesson for adults!

Children take the time to enjoy the simple things in life. While walking with my grandson we have watched crabs scurrying for cover when rocks have been overturned and have marveled at a snake undulating through waves and over rocks. These are things, had I been walking on my own, I would likely not have noticed or taken the time to watch. How sad to have lost the capacity to enjoy the simple things in life.

One of the most exciting things for children to do is to go trick 'or' treating on Hallowe'en. For children it is not the ordeal we see it as. We view it as having to walk around in the freezing cold or rainy weather. For a child it is the excitement of dressing up, the wonder of what they'll get at each house they visit, being together with mom or dad, and the excitement of sharing this time with friends.

Also, going to look at Christmas light displays is magical for children. If we look at the displays through the eyes of our children, we will feel the magic of animated snowmen, Santa Clauses, reindeer prancing across lawns and Christmas music; the happiest of all music. When we get into the spirit of the Christmas magic as children do, we may be able to remember the excitement we once felt from our earliest memories of Christmases passed.

Spending time with my grandchildren has opened my eyes and helped me view life through their eyes. When my grandson helps me in my garden he is learning the difference between plants and weeds, how to harvest seeds for next year and how to pick the vegetables we grow. And I am learning how my grandchild feels about the snails we find on the plants and what he thinks as we watch their antennas disappear when they are disturbed.

When we go for walks, he is learning the difference between maple and oak leaves, how many shapes and sizes of pine cones there are, what kind of sea life there is on the beach and the color a worm becomes when it wiggles through a mud puddle. I am learning that we don't always have to hurry, we don't have to end up where we originally thought we'd go, that there are many little flowers in a seemingly flowerless area of grass and it really is nice to feed the seagulls.

When we do craft projects together, they are learning coordination, another new skill, the enjoyment of art, the experience of new accomplishments and that there are a lot of interesting things to do. I am learning there are many different ways to do things, that beauty is in the eye of the beholder and there is a perfect spot for each 'work of art'. I am also appreciating the capabilities of young children without my adult expectations.

When we snuggle together to read or watch a video, they are learning about love, family, warmth and good times and I am renewing my appreciation for the miracle of a child. Time spent with my grandchildren has helped us develop rituals. Through these rituals they gain a sense of belonging and I enjoy time shared with my grandchildren.

Life takes on meaning when viewed from a child's perspective. Children have enthusiasm and excitement for what we consider just everyday situations. They are always ready for the next adventure. They revel in a smile and a hug; they know that love and time spent together is more important than material possessions, climbing a corporate ladder or buying an expensive new car or house. From watching my children and grandchildren I have learned that llife is for living, not amassing and it is for doing the best I can in the time I have. It is living life in such a way that hopefully I will leave a legacy of love behind me. It will mean looking into the eyes of the children who have been in my life and seeing the true meaning of life reflected back to me. If I manage to accomplish this, I think I will have been a success.

Vancouver, British Columbia - Host City of the Winter Olympics Games

Vancouver has been considered by many visitors to be the most beautiful city in Canada. Situated on the ocean and with the range of mountains as a glorious backdrop, comparisons to this city become very difficult. Worldwide it also has the reputation of being a very livable city.

Vancouver has an interesting history. It is named after Captain George Vancouver who visited the area in 1792. Vancouver's beginnings were in the area of what is now called Gastown. Gastown's name has been derived from the name 'Gassy' Jack Deighton who established a tavern in the area in 1870. The tavern became the hub of the flourishing city. Gastown has kept the sense of being old with cobbled streets, Victorian architecture and the old steam clock. There are also boutiques, restaurants and nightclubs in the area making it a popular place both day and evening.

As well as Gastown, there are many other wonderful places to visit when in Vancouver. Stanley Park is home to the Vancouver Aquarium, the popular Stanley Park train ride, children's petting zoo, a lake, the sea wall for walking and cycling, the lagoon, a water park, trails through woodlands and garden areas, and its great beaches. It covers an area of one thousand acres and is considered to be one of the largest urban parks in North America.

Robson Street, popular with visitors and locals alike, with its exclusive boutiques, cafes, coffee shops, bookstores and restaurants is another great place to spend some time. The same is true of Yaletown with its elegant galleries, restaurants, clubs and pubs.

Other attractions are Science World, the Imax Theatre, the Vancouver Art Gallery, Chinatown, Van Duesen Gardens, Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver, the Salmon Hatchery, Lynn Canyon Park, Granville Island, and the Grouse Mountain skyride to name some of the outstanding places to visit. Vancouver also has ballet, the Symphony and many restaurants and theatres. Within a short distance of Vancouver there is golfing, the Greater Vancouver Zoo, and Whistler, a world renowned ski resort.

Many of the buildings in Vancouver are very old dating from the late 1800's and early 1900's. These include Christ Church Cathedral, Holy Rosary Cathedral, St. Andrew's Wesley Church, the Hotel Vancouver, the Provincial Court House, the Marine Building, the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Vancouver Public Library, the Orpheum Theatre, and buildings in Gastown and Chinatown as well as many others.

Vancouver is home to approximately two million people. Many visitors from around the world have decided to make it their home and as a result, Vancouver, and British Columbia in general, is very culturally diverse.

Because of all there is to see and do in the city of Vancouver, many who are locals will occasionally play tourist as well. I recently went with my family to the Aquarium at Stanley Park and enjoyed it as much as we always have. We were in awe when we watched the dolphins dance across the water on their tail fins; when we saw the progress of the life of a jellyfish, and were entranced with the occupants of the tropical area.

And on a recent visit to Chinatown, we enjoyed the interesting shops and unique array of merchandise that deserved more time to explore than we had. To really enjoy Vancouver, a whirlwind visit does not do it justice.

Those who come back to visit Vancouver often do so because of all that this city has to offer in the way of entertainment, its moderate climate, and the fact that we have the ocean and mountains so close at hand. There is something here to interest everyone.

Harrison Hot Sprints - Jewel of the Fraser Valley In British Columbia

When driving from Vancouver to Harrison Hot Springs in the Fraser Valley, you'll see stately Mount Baker in the distance covered in snow and, as you get closer to the village, you'll become wrapped in the arms of the surrounding mountains. And if you are fortunate enough to go early in the year, you'll see the magic of trees adorned with springtime blossoms. But your adventure will only be beginning.

Sixty kilometers long, Harrison Lake sits in a valley, glacier fed, its color is a fascintating deep blue and with the mountains as a contrast, it is a truly beautiful setting. On the grounds of Harrison Hot Springs Resort, the lights in the trees on a starlit evening add to the ambience of the area.

Many visitors enjoy the hot springs in both the resort and the public pool; some believing them to have healing powers. The lake itself offers sandy beaches for relaxing with a book, swimming, fishing, kayaking and boat tours. When we went on a boat tour of the lake, we saw areas of this large lake that not many people have the good fortune to see as there are few roads in the area.

For those who have come to do more than relax there is hiking, golfing, rock hounding and the opportunity to search for some of the fossils occasionally found in the area, as well as going on nature walks. In close proximity also are attractions such as Minter Gardens, Hell's Gate Airtram, Othello Tunnels, the ski resort of Hemlock Valley, and the nearby historic site of Kilby Farm and Museum where more than one thousand bald eagles return each fall. As a visitor to each of these attractions, I can attest to the fact that they are all well worth a visit.

For those who visit this fabulous area with children, there is Dinotown, a children's dinosaur town, Bridal Falls Water Park, Tugboat Junction featuring Sasquatch caves, gold panning and train rides and most years, in early fall, there is a popular sand sculpture competition attended by people from around the world.

In spite of the varied attractions, for many of those who visit this small village, there is mostly the allure of nature's beauty and the feeling of romance inspired by the ambience that surrounds this small town that is tucked away in the heart of the Fraser Valley. For some it is a honeymoon destination or a place to celebrate anniversaries or birthdays. Most people, after having visited this delightful place, will agree that it is the place to go when a special venue is required.

Telegraph Cove and Kilby's Farm and Museum - Heritage Sites of British Columbia

There are several significant heritage sites in British Columbia, the province that was host to the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. Two of these sites are Telegraph Cove and Kilby's Farm and General Store Museum. On a visit to these unique places, you will also be traveling through, and enjoying much of the beauty of our province.

Telegraph Cove, established in 1911, is a quaint boardwalk community north of Campbell River on Vancouver Island. A thriving town, Telegraph Cove was originally a telegraph station. In the 1920's the town grew to include a salmon saltery and a busy sawmill. As times changed with the coming of the Depression, lumber sales became the primary business.

During the 1940's, the population of the small town grew requiring the need for bunkhouses, a community hall, a caretaker, a doctor, a post office and a school as well as family residences.

Today Telegraph Cove is still active with the arrival of fishermen, whale watchers, kayakers and those like ourselves who travel the excellent road. The scenery is inspiring as the highway slices through the surrounding mountains and towering trees.

Many of the buildings on the boardwalk are original offering visitors a glimpse into the fascinating history of the town. Walking past each building one can imagine old time music playing in the community hall and laughing voices floating over the water; men's voices drifting from the bunkhouse as they relax after a hard day of work, and children running along the boardwalk on a sunny day. A 1930's Dodge truck, its cab rusted, sits on the site, forgotten by a long ago owner, a further reminder to visitors of the past.

Looking down into the sheltered bay, our thoughts returned to the present with the sight of the new marina and boat slips. Climbing the hill above the small town the view is spectacular with open waters and passing ships.

Another heritage site is the Kilby General Store and Farm located not far from Harrison Hot Springs. The Kilby General Store, opened on August 14, 1906 by Thomas and Eliza Kilby, was built on pilings and linked to the railway station by a ramp. The store, post office and farm were operated by them until Thomas's death in 1928. Their son Acton and his wife Jessie operated the business until 1977.

The store and post office was the centre of the community where people shopped, picked up their mail, socialized and heard the latest news. The rail lines, still visible from the front porch, are part of the Canadian Pacific Railway. In the early days steam wheelers linked Harrison Mills with docks downstream at Mission and New Westminster.

The post office also doubled as an office for both Thomas Kilby in his role as Justic of the Peace and by Acton in his role as Notary Public over the years.

The Kilby family lived in the back of the General Store with the upstairs area being opened as a hotel in 1908. It was named the Manchester House after Eliza's home town of Manchester, England.

As a Museum, the Kilby Store displays approximately 3,000 artifacts consisting of products and packaging dating to the 1920's and 1930's. The post office and Manchester House Hotel are also on display. Upstairs in the hotel are period books and approximately 300 photographs. There are 15,000 historic pieces in total. During the fall juice and cider-making demonstrations are held at this site.

Five acres of the farm surrounding the General Store are still in operation. Calves, piglets, lambs, goats and rabbits are supplied by a local 4-H group. There is also a tree fort and old fashioned games for the children.

Surrounded by mountains, fields and cattle, there are four original buildings and six reconstructed ones, 60 pieces of 1920's farm machinery and a milk house. There is also a restaurant serving 1920's homestyle food. To further give a visitor the feeling of having stepped back in time, staff is dressed in period costumes.

On my several visits to this museum, I have been particularly interested in the numerous pictures of the family and of the area during those early years, much of it appearing to be unchanged.

The San Juan Island Group - Where the Past and the Present Meet

As visitors from British Columbia we were excited to visit the San Juan Island group, having heard much about them from other travelers. We took the ferry from Anacortes to Friday Harbor on the San Juan Island. This town was somewhat of a surprise to us as it was much larger than we had expected it to be.

We booked into a campground located on the water where the view was lovely but the wind was nearly gale-force at the time we arrived Because of the increasing winds and the fear of being blown out of our lawn chairs, we decided to take the opportunity to explore the island rather than brave the elements in the camp site. We saw many beautiful areas as we drove around where huge tumbling waves crashed like thunder onto the beaches and angry black clouds over our heads threatened rain. However, this did not dampen our enthusiasm in discovering what the island had to offer in the way of beauty. Bright yellow and orange flowers lined the roadside and occasionally a stunted tree, its branches reaching towards the water, drew our attention away from the view of undulating waves.

We explored further the following day, arriving eventually at Roche Harbor. We were enchanted with this village's old buildings; the Hotel DeHaro, a brick building where lime and cement had once been made; and old brick furnaces and walkways. Taking pictures, and reluctant to leave a place where we felt we'd been catapulted back into time, we explored trails through the old lime quarries. At one point we were able to enjoy a beautiful view of the outer islands and our own Canadian gulf islands. We also visited an alpaca farm, a scenic, idyllic home for the obviously well-loved alpacas and their friendly owners.

Having limited time for our trip and wanting to see as much of the islands as possible, we hurried to catch the ferry to Orcas Island. Camping at Moran State Park, we visited Mount Constitution and climbed the stone observation tower which was built in 1936. At 2,409 feet above sea level, we had a 360 degree view of the region's islands and mountain ranges as well as some of those in Canadian waters. Within the park also are a couple of interesting moss-covered bridges built in memory of Robert Moran's brother. There are also hiking trails of varying lengths and on one of these trails we saw several small waterfalls surrounded by lush forest areas. In many of the areas that we walked the forest floors were carpeted with many varieties of velvety mosses.

Leaving early the following morning, we took the ferry to Lopez Island. On our arrival, we were surprised when we realized that with each car that passed us, there was a friendly wave from its occupant. In no time at all we were returning these friendly waves and wondered why this isn't done everywhere. I particularly enjoyed the rolling farmlands and was interested in the numerous old barns and buildings, the structures often barely supporting the roofs. I found that the old buildings, suggesting many untold stories, situated beside the newer structures were particularly picturesque in their contrast. At each antiquated building we stopped to view, I wondered what the history might have been of the previous families on these farms. We also found a quaint old church with a nearby cemetery; a tranquil scene rarely seen in our world of bustling cars, rumbling trucks, public transit and harried people.

Following various roads, we discovered an old unusued pier and nearby some ancient gas pumps; an interesting bridge, built in 1915 spanning an empty pond; old buildings, and unique mailboxes and everywhere we went there were friendly people.

On our return, we told several friends of our visit to the San Juan Islands and as a result of our enthusiasm, we know several people who also made the trip. They returned as enthusiastic about their trip as we were.

British Columbia's Beautiful Gulf Islands

The Gulf Islands, mostly in the Straight of Georgia between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia, are considered to be B.C.'s vacation destination. The beauty of their shorelines, lush forests, orchards, sheep farms and awe-inspiring views are unsurpassed. And the lifestyle is peaceful and relaxed with the opportunity for outdoor adventures.

Pender Island (North and South), Saltspring Island, Maine Island, Saturna, Galiano and Gabriola Island are the largest of this group of islands. Some of the smaller islands include Texada, Hornby, Denman, Quadra, Cortes, Thetis, Vales, DeCourcey, Mudge and Lasqueti. There are approximately 200 gulf islands, some so small as to be invisible on most maps and many that are uninhabited are accessible only by private boat, or kayak.

Saltspring is the largest of the gulf islands with a population of over 10,000 year-round residents, a large population of sheep and deer, and the occasional bear. It is the most populated of all the islands and is home to many artists, musicians and sculptors.

Ganges, on Saltspring, is one of the largest towns on all of the gulf islands and is a popular destination for boaters. This busy town is where most of the businesses are located. On our visit, we stayed at a lovely bed and breakfast and watched as orcas cruised through the off-shore waters. Sea lions are occasional visitors to the island as well. We were surprised to discover there are eight lakes, 22 beaches and 225 farms with beautiful rolling pastures.

Gabriola Island is another of the gulf islands dotting the western coastline. The rugged shoreline and sandstone beaches almost ensure that beachcombing will be a wondrous adventure. Nature flourishes with starfish, jellyfish, anemones, sea otter and seals being in abundance. Setting up chairs at waters edge, we enjoyed the tranquility of waves lapping at our feet, eagles soaring overhead and the ocean sounds of seagulls and oyster catchers. From the bluffs above the shoreline there are spectacular views of ships and pleasure craft and the spirit-lifting beauty of sun glistening on gentle waves. In the evening we enjoyed the breathtaking sunsets with the soft lights of Nanaimo and Sechelt twinkling in the distance.

Gabriola Island is known as the Queen of the Gulf Islands and there is much to see and enjoy on this enchanted island. One of interests is Malaspina Galleries. It is a rare geological feature. It was once named Galiano Gallery, after the Spanish explorer, Dionisio Alcala Galiano, who visited the area in 1792. The gallery has been carved into the sandstone over hundreds of years of high tides and is one of the not-to-be-missed sights.

Many of the other islands are much smaller than these two but each has its own history, culture and attractions. On one visit to Hornby Island we found a clean sandy beach where clams were plentiful but knowing nothing about clam digging, we looked for the largest ones. Taking a pail of these delectable creatures to the home of friends, they informed us that instead of the melt-in-your-mouth clams we had been anticipating these large ones would be tough as old shoe leather; they were the soup-making variety.

Traveling from one island to another is relatively easy but to really get the island feel, it is important to allow at least one or two days to explore each island thoroughly in order to see it the way it should be seen.

Exploring Vancouver Island, British Columbia

The beauty of British Columbia's Vancouver Island is well worth an adventurous road trip to explore a small area of what this province has to offer. Among many things, the magnificent shorelines are great for kayaking, sailing, beachcombing and diving, with many areas considered to be some of the best in the world.

Qualicum Beach captured our attention when we were there. Strolling along the seaside promenade, we had views of Lasqueti and Texada Islands and the snowcapped peaks of mountains on the mainland in the distance. Qualicum has a strong belief in heritage preservation and their antique shops, galleries and the museum are definitely worth a stop.

Campbell River, another seaside town, is known as Canada's Salmon Fishing Capital. On a visit to the Marina, this came as no surprise; from the pier we saw masses of masts. Campbell River is also acknowledged as one of the top five scuba diving destinations in the world because of its exceptional underwater visibility, diversity of sea life and wreck sites.

"As Wild as You Like!" is a Campbell River slogan. Between skiing Mount Washington and diving the Strait of Georgia, this appears to be an apt slogan. There are trails meandering through lush forests that are worth exploring where the sounds of wildlife are a song in your ear. From the beach we watched cruise ships, freighters, barges, sailboats, yachts and the ferry to Quadra Island travel through Discovery Passage. There is a Maritime Museum with a collection of more than 500 artifacts, some dating back 2,000 years. There is also the John Hart Dam operating at upper Campbell Lake.

Traveling the road to Gold River is also well worth the effort. It is considered 'The Cave Capital of Canada'. There are many miles of caves to be found in the area for both the novice and the more adventuresome.

The West Coast Trail follows the contours of the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island and is one of Ucluelet's main attractions. Rainforests meet pristine beaches and there is a panoramic view of Barkley Sound and the Broken Islands of Pacific Rim National Park. Lighthouse Park is another attraction where, on a slightly foggy day, you may hear the lighthouse warning boaters to be aware of the rocky and treacherous shoreline. The rugged shoreline, as seen from the walking trails, is typical of much of B.C.'s coastline. During winter storms the breakers can be as high as 20 feet. Ucluelet is popular for whale watching expeditions and each spring celebrates the migration of 20,000 gray whales.

Long Beach has a quite different shoreline with miles of sweeping white sand. When we were there, the surf was high and surfers were enjoying the excitement of catching a wave. There are many warnings to surfers and others to never turn your back on the ocean and to be especially careful around water's edge.

We also stopped at Cathedral Grove Provincial Park located at Cameron Lake. The park is a preserved section of lush old-growth forest; many trees are 800 or more years old. Walking among these giats, we marveled at their beauty, endurance, resiliency and the power of nature.

Victoria, B.C.'s capital, known as the City of Gardens, is a perfect place to visit any time of the year. Butchard Gardens is a particularly beautiful place to tour as are the Parliament Buildings.

We took time to explore the Inner Harbour, Old Town, Chinatown, James Bay, Fisherman's Wharf and Beacon Hill Park, all within Victoria's downtown core. This can be done either on foot, by double-decker bus, horse-drawn carriage or boat tours. Victoria is home to several exceptional museums and heritage buildings.

Other attractions include the Undersea Gardens, the Wax Museum, the Butterfly Garden, Craigdarroch Castle, Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse, Canada's first west coast lighthouse.

There are many other great places to visit on Vancouver Island; one could spend months exploring it.

Summary of His Sins - My First Fiction Book

"His Sins" is a three generation family saga. It is about how the actions of one member of a family can be felt, and continue to be felt, by future generations.

Part I - Alexander and Janet - Alexander, at eighteen years of age, is determined to leave the mine; a mine that is killing his father. At 38 years old, his father is already coughing up phlegm and coal dust. Alexander's anger becomes intensified with the eventual early death of his father and the stillborn birth of his first born child causing yet another delay in his ability to leave the mine. He finally manages, along with Janet, to leave their mining community in Scotland for a new world where they believe that the streets are lined with gold. In the Peace River District of Canada, he finds that riches are not everywhere as he had thought. Realizing that disappointment and bad luck has continued to follow and haunt him wherever he has traveled, he takes his anger and bitterness out on his family.

Part II - Elsa, Alexander and Janet's daughter, was conceived on a night when Alexander, while in a drunken state, had taken Janet without thought for the pain he was inflicting upon her. She is loved by neither father nor mother. As a result she grows up where loneliness is her constant companion becoming the one who bears the brunt of her parents' frustration and anger. Because of the lack of love shown by her parents, elsa is completely lacking in self-esteem placing her in a vulnerable position. As a result she marries a man, much like her father, who is happy to have a wife that can be so easily controlled. And while raising seven children, she remains completely under his thumb, fearful and intimidated.

Part III - Sarah Ann is the second child of Elsa and Peter. She is spirited, spunky and determined. Watching her father's treatment of her mother, she quickly resolves to never allow herself to be treated in such a way by any man, ever.

As she grows older, appearing to be unscathed by her parents' dysfunctional relationship, she happily dates telling all that marriage doesn't interest her. Until she meets Adam! It is then she realizes that her family history has had an affect upon her as well. As Adam becomes more serious, she discovers that her issues of "trust" and especially "commitment" are problems she will have to overcome if she doesn't want to lose Adam forever. Will she be able to overcome them?

"His Sins" is a story about families and relationships; about what the results can be of one person's actions on another. It is also a story about the power of the human personality and how adversity can be overcome with strength and determination. Although it tells of bitterness and resentment, it also speaks of love.

How to Avoid Feeling Overwhelmed When Selling Your Home and Moving to a New Location

There are many things to remember when selling your home. A check list is the best way to remember everything you will need to do when selling your home and moving to a new one.

The following are some of the things that will need to be done ahead of time:

- Phone the utility companies to shut off services on the home you are selling and set them up at your new address. These will include hydro, gas, telephone, cable and internet services.
- Cancel your house insurance for the old address and set it up for the new home.
- Change your address at as many places as possible before your move.
- Fill out a change of address form at the post office to direct all other mail to your new home.
- Register children, as soon as possible, at their new school.

Other things that will make the move go more smoothly:

- If possible have someone clean the old house after all furniture and boxes have been moved. It is worth the money it costs rather than having to go back yourself to do the job when you are trying to get settled into your new home.
- Have someone come and cut the grass - for the same reason.
- Check all appliances before moving to ensure that they are in good working order to avoid new purchaser dissatisfaction when you are trying to get settled in your new home.
- Have a rubbish collector pick up things like old paint and unwanted items and remove from the premises before your actual move date.
- Go on the assumption that most purchasers do not want anything left on the property even if you think they might be able to use it. Not wanting to take it with you yourself may be a good indication that they won't want it either.
- Try to get everything packed ahead of time so there is no last minute packing or going back for things.
- Consider pets when moving to a new home. A solution may be to put your pet into a kennel for a few days until things have settled down.
- Moving is also disruptive to young children. Grandparents or friends may be able to look after the young ones until the actual move has been accomplished. Young children who are crying because they're feeling stressed will make the move more difficult for the parents.

Moving is considered to be one of the most stressful things we have to deal with in our lives, next to divorce and bereavment.