One should never underestimate the art of travelling local as we adjust to the new normal. In light of these unprecedented times, travel around your local neighborhood and take a breather to appreciate the beauty of the places in proximity to you. A more quiet and understated, but no less impressive beauty.
So, in the interest of encouraging others to stay active and obtain their regular dose of fresh air, take some time to stroll, run or cycle around your friendly neighbourhood or golf course or park.
I had the chance to feel reinvigorated by visiting several nearby places.
Located West of Fraser Street between 31st Ave and 43rd Avenue, the cemetery’s convenient location and quaint views deem it a rare venue to honour the memories of family and friends, and to interact with Vancouver's nature and history.
It goes without saying that one should respect the grounds of the deceased while traipsing around the grounds.
Over 110,000 tulips are currently blooming at gardens across Vancouver. The cemetery worked with Dutch Liberation 2020 Canadian Society to plant tulips in commemoration of fallen Canadians in liberation of Netherlands and the rest of Europe.
Your Nearby Residential Neighbourhoods
You might not initially think of visiting your local neighbourhood. However, the vicinity is usually serene and tranquil. All of them have their unique charm. I definitely gravitate towards the more quiet residential areas. It’s hard not to ignore the beauty of these cherry blossom lined streets. Even with abundant greenery, the streets are endlessly beautiful.
Queen Elizabeth Park, Vancouver’s horticultural jewel, holds huge appeal for floral display fanatics and scenery seekers. At 125 m above sea level, it is the highest point in Vancouver and provides a spectacular backdrop of the park, city, and North Shore mountains.
We were fortunate to have cycled over and enjoyed the scenery when the cherry blossoms were in full bloom - nothing short of spectacular. Blanketed in blossoms, if you will :P
Literally blanketed in blossoms, with sunbeans radiating through - unforgettable beauty
Your Local Neighborhood
While taking a stroll around the neighborhood, we came across several beautiful plants as well and couldn’t help snapping some shots. One of my neighbours cultivated an amazing and meticulously trimmed garden. Reminds me of this quote “It’s up to you to see the beauty in everyday things.” There is great simplicity in our natural surroundings & I hope people slow down and learn to notice and appreciate the small things, despite existing in an increasingly digitally connected world. Take a sip, do a facial mask, read a book, learn a new online course, learn a new skill, do yoga or online workouts, chat with your neighbours or send a note to those who you haven’t connected with in a while. Most importantly, re-connect with yourself.
Ending this off by sending some warmth and well wishes to everyone to stay healthy, happy & spend some quality time with your loved ones just chatting or cooking a meal. Enjoy being productive by completing errands more efficiently, or perhaps start utilizing a habit tracker, which has done wonders for my accountability. Indulge in lots of self-care like exercise, nutrition, cooking, mindfulness & learn some new hobbies that add value to your lives. Be well.
XOXO,
Kyna
