Family, Friends, and Fresh Hobbies

With the Crowsnest Pass Herald taking a two-week break, I’ve decided to seize the opportunity to reconnect with loved ones and indulge in some personal pursuits. Though it’s not a vacation in the traditional sense, this brief hiatus from work is a chance to unwind, recharge, and make the most of the summer.

First on the agenda is a visit to Primate, Saskatchewan, my hometown. This small community is where I grew up and where I can always find solace and familiarity. 

Since my mother’s passing earlier this year, I’ve felt an even stronger pull to spend time with my family there. It’s a place filled with memories and love, and I’m eager to share stories and laughter with my relatives. This trip is about reconnecting with the roots that have shaped me and finding comfort in the presence of those who were close to her.

After a few days in Primate, I plan to head to Saskatoon to catch up with an old friend. Saskatoon is a vibrant city, offering a mix of urban charm and natural beauty.

The final leg of my journey will take me to Cranbrook, B.C., for a family reunion on my mother’s side. This gathering is set to bring together relatives from all corners, creating a tapestry of shared stories and experiences.

 I’m excited to see how our family has grown and evolved over the years

In addition to these visits, I’m looking forward to some personal time to explore my latest hobby: digital art. I recently acquired a drawing tablet, and I’m eager to use it during my travels. 

As someone who deals with nerve damage, I’ve found digital art to be a more forgiving medium than traditional art forms. The precision required for pencil and paper can be difficult to manage on some days, but the digital drawing tablet offers features that help mitigate these challenges. 

The ability to zoom in and out allows me to focus on finer details without straining my hand, and the undo function gives me the freedom to experiment without the fear of making irreversible mistakes. Layers let me build my artwork piece by piece, reducing the pressure of perfect execution in one go. This ease of use has made digital art an accessible and enjoyable way to express my creativity, providing a sense of accomplishment and freedom despite my physical limitations.

As I prepare for this journey, I’m reminded of the importance of taking time to nurture relationships, pursue personal growth, and indulge in creative pursuits. 

I’m looking forward to the adventures that await me over these two weeks and the experiences I’ll bring back to enrich both my personal and professional life. Whether it’s deepening my connections with family and friends, getting lost in the pages of a good book, or exploring the limitless potential of digital art, I’m excited to embrace the possibilities of this time off.