During my younger years, I often felt awkward and self-conscious, wishing I knew what I know now. Fortunately, my parents introduced my siblings and me to camping and canoeing from an early age—practically when I was a toddler. Growing up in the quiet town of Deep River, Ontario, with a population of around 4,000 people, our main source of entertainment involved exploring the surrounding wilderness. Lucky for us, it felt like we had endless forests, beaches, rivers, and lakes to explore. When we weren't in a boat on the Ottawa River, we were hiking or canoeing. Living in the metropolis of Ottawa now (for anyone living in Toronto, that was a joke...) I realize how lucky we were growing up. It was in these early days that I learned to love and respect nature.

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My love for the outdoors continued to grow in my teenage years. Our local high school did annual canoe and hiking trips for whoever wanted to go and also had an immersive outdoor education program for kids in Grade 11. I did my first whitewater canoe trip in Grade 9. It was nine days and... character building. Me and my canoe buddy flipped in rapids, endured a 3 km portage and I wouldn't have wished the intensity of mosquitos we faced on my worst enemy. However, we laughed hard and emerged with countless inside jokes that are still referenced today. And I, a lanky, awkward Grade 9 kid, felt stronger, courageous and more confident. Also, these trips taught me invaluable survival skills, wilderness first aid, and even the art of winter camping. 

 

I decided this was for me and headed out west to pursue a BSc in Natural Resources Conservation at the University of British Columbia. It was the only program I could find that was closest to my high school experience. During my time there, I studied a diversity of Canadian ecosystems, which involved hiking, snowshoeing and numerous week-long field trips all over British Columbia. 

 

So... what's all this about then? I have found so much happiness and self-assurance in the outdoors and I want others to experience this. With the creation of this blog, my aim is to share the knowledge I have gained to help you make the most of your outdoor adventures. In the long-term, I hope to build a community of like-minded individuals, where we can support and inspire one another to get outdoors. I am also constantly learning and discovering new things, and I love to share these findings with my readers.

 

I currently reside in Ottawa, Ontario. Although I work a corporate job by day, I take every opportunity to get outside during my personal time. Whether it's day hikes in Gatineau Park, canoe tripping in Algonquin, or backcountry camping in the Rockies, I try to make the most of every moment. I'll be posting on my blog regarding all these things and anything else that comes to mind.

 

My ‘big dream’ would be to explore the world and write about it full time. With your support, I hope to make this dream a reality. Thank you for joining me on this adventure!