The only things you will regret are the risks you don't take
We visited the amazing Elephant Jungle Sanctuary while in Thailand, nestled in the rolling hills outside Chiang Mai. We did lots of research before picking somewhere to visit the lovely Asian elephants. This spot won us over for its positive reviews and work to not only provide sanctuary for elephants in need, but also to…
As is tradition, in mid-August, we took off to Algonquin for a mother-daughter backcountry camping trip. Our itinerary was two nights on Rosebary Lake with a day trip to Longbow Lake, and one night on Tim Lake. Day 1 – Friday We left the GTA early and arrived at the permit office by 9:15am. The…
Continue reading ➞ Algonquin in Four Days: Tim, Rosebary, Longbow Lakes and Tim River
A short walk through a dense jungle canopy and we emerged to Mayan ruins towering above us – almost like a walk back in time. The monkeys could be heard howling around us while they protested our early morning arrival. We were at Lamanai Ruins in Belize. This tour is offered by a number of…
Continue reading ➞ Exploring the ancient Lamanai Ruins of Belize
I get a little stir crazy during the winter months. Canadian winters can be too long. Recently we have received a warm spell in February, between freezing temperatures. I try and use this as an opportunity to get out and hike. There are lots of hidden gems in our own backyards. I often forget the…
Facebook recently reminded my of a memory from three years ago. Three years ago this crazy skydiving journey started with a tandem. I thought I would do one tandem to try out skydiving since my dad was skydiver. Ithought it would be a fun way to remember him, as I always heard about it…
We arrived at Algonquin Park on a crispy morning with a bright blue sky. I was looking forward to disconnecting and using the time to enjoy nature. I did not get to Algonquin the previous year, so this weekend was anticipated. After a busy summer of skydiving, a hectic work schedule and busy weekends,…
Continue reading ➞ Algonquin in Three Days: Magnetawan, Hambone, Daisy Lake
A moment of silence, as I stepped back and let myself fall. It was a new sensation and almost peaceful. It was not my first time jumping from a helicopter, but maybe the first time I really appreciated the experience. For a non-skydiver, falling out of a plane or helicopter might seem like nearly…
A lack of waterfalls can sometimes be beautiful. It is a reminder to have an open mind to different possibilities in life. We were in Ottawa, Illinois and looking for something to do. Skydiving had brought us to the area, but clouds had put us on hold. Our options were to drive to Chicago or…
Continue reading ➞ Waterfalls and canyons: Starved Rock State Park
The skydiving season trickled to a start this year. Unlike other skydivers, I jump with some regularity through the winter, so for me it was a slow start to the season with sporadic jumping in March and April. Dropzones start Safety Days in May, which often marks the beginning of another season. Safety days…
Last fall I discovered McCrae Lake while searching for an adventure activity near the cottage. The cottage is great, but I can only relax so long before looking for something to do. Fall at McCrae Lake was beautiful and led to my first HIGH cliff jumping experience – like 82 feet high! Spring at…