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A Coastal Adventure: Exploring Vancouver Island

As the summer sun beckoned and my children childhoods slipping away faster than I can come to grips with, a step away from my photography was in order. Road trip!!!! We embarked on a memorable journey from Edmonton, Alberta, to the enchanting Gulf Coast in beautiful British Columbia where we spent a glorious 5 weeks. Accompanied by my 14-year-old and 11-year-old twins, the excitement in the car was palpable as we eagerly ventured into a world of discovery, bonding, and unforgettable experiences. My husband joined us for our last weeks for some fun in the sun!

Our final destination was Mill Bay, a charming locale on Vancouver Island, where we had the pleasure of staying at a delightful AirBnB. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this trip would be unlike any other. The friendly hosts welcomed us with open arms and provided us with a cozy retreat, the perfect base for our island escapade.

The highlight of our stay in Mill Bay was undoubtedly the small hobby farm that our wonderful hosts maintained. It was a real treat for my kids to immerse themselves in the world of farm life, as they got a firsthand experience of raising chickens. It was heartwarming to witness their curiosity and enthusiasm as they learned about the daily routines of tending to these charming feathered friends. The educational aspect of the experience was invaluable, and it left a lasting impression on their young minds.

Our hosts' children, who were around the same age as my twins, quickly became friends. The connection between our families was a beautiful surprise, and I was delighted to see my kids forming a bond with their new companions. Before we knew it, they were exchanging contact information, eager to continue their friendship even after we left Mill Bay. The idea of pen pals in this digital age felt like a nostalgic throwback to simpler times, and it warmed my heart to see them excited about maintaining this connection.

Lazy Beach Days

Is there anything better? One of my favourite memories growing up!

One evening, as the sun cast a golden hue across the picturesque landscape, I couldn't resist the urge to capture the beauty of the moment. Our hosts graciously agreed to be subjects for a series of portraits during this magical golden hour. The resulting images captured the essence of our newfound friendship, the serene surroundings, and the joy of this shared adventure.

As we reluctantly bid farewell to our amazing hosts and the charming coastal haven they shared with us, I couldn't help but feel a strong desire to return to Vancouver Island. There is still so much more to explore, and I'm already planning our next adventure in this captivating part of the world.

But that's not all! Inspired by the warmth and joy we experienced during this trip, I'm thrilled to announce that I'll be offering family portrait sessions this fall. If you're looking to capture precious moments with your loved ones against the backdrop of the changing season, I'd be honored to be a part of creating those cherished memories.

From the educational farm experience for my kids to the unexpected friendships that blossomed, this trip was a reminder that life's greatest treasures often come from the simplest and most unexpected moments. I can't wait to see where our next journey takes us and the beautiful stories that unfold along the way. Until then, here's to family, friendship, and the endless wonders of Vancouver Island.

pre teen exploring coastal beach crouches down with a stick to poke at a rock by the shore
Lisa Read