As we approach the twilight of another year, the air is infused with a sense of anticipation and reflection. The countdown to New Year's is not merely about ticking seconds; it's about cherishing the moments that lead us into a brand new chapter of our lives. Let's embark on this countdown, savoring the top 5 moments that pave the way for new beginnings. 5. Reflective Resolutions A flicker of nostalgia fills the air as we look back on the journey of the past year. It's a time for reflection, for embracing the lessons learned, celebrating accomplishments, and pondering upon personal growth. Amidst this introspection, we set intentions for the upcoming year – shaping resolutions that resonate with our aspirations and dreams, setting the stage for the new adventures that await. 4. Quality Time with Loved Ones The joy of the season is magnified when shared with those we hold dear. Whether gathered around the table or connected virtually across miles, these moments with loved ones are precious. Laughter reverberates, heartfelt conversations flow, and memories are woven, as we reminisce about the year's journey, strengthening the bonds that tie us together. 3. Mindful Moments of Solitude In the midst of the festive hustle, finding solace in moments of mindfulness becomes invaluable. Stepping away from the clamor, we embrace tranquility. Whether through meditation, nature walks, or simply indulging in our favorite pastime, these moments of solitude rejuvenate our spirits, offering the respite needed to recharge before the grand celebration. 2. Preparing for Celebration The anticipation mounts as we prepare for the grand finale. The house is adorned with festive décor, aromas of special dishes fill the air, and plans for activities or games are set in motion. The thrill builds, setting the stage for the upcoming revelry and the countdown to bid adieu to the current year. 1. The Countdown and Jubilation As the clock inches closer to midnight, hearts beat in unison across the globe. Gathered with friends, family, or in spirit, the countdown commences. The final moments of the year unfold amidst laughter, shared glances, and nostalgic reflections. With the stroke of midnight, jubilation erupts – toasts are raised, hugs are exchanged, and fireworks light up the sky, marking the arrival of the New Year. This countdown to New Year's isn’t just a sequence of seconds ticking away; it's an amalgamation of moments that encapsulate reflection, connection, mindfulness, and jubilation. Each of these moments threads into the grand tapestry of life, guiding us into a year filled with hope, aspirations, and the promise of new beginnings. As we bid adieu to the old and embrace the new, let's carry forth the spirit of these moments, crafting a year brimming with joy, growth, and cherished memories.

The Northern Lights are one of nature's most spectacular displays of true majesty. These emotive and spectacular streams of coloring, also known as Aurora Borealis, dance in the cool night sky in colors of blue, purple, yellow, red, green, or pink. The irregularity is caused by the sun's energetic particles interacting with the atoms and molecules in the planet's air. The different shades are related to the different types of gas particles that smash, with the most well-known being a yellowish green. During the colder months, the Aurora Borealis is more grounded and visible, and timing is critical. Auroras happen on planet earth as well as on different universes in the planetary group like Jupiter and Neptune. Be that as it may, for the present gives center around top survey areas access Canada. So wrap up in your hottest parka, get your Tim Horton's espresso and be keeping watch for wild moose, Eh? Where to see the lights in Canada There are five key provinces and territories in Canada where catching sight of the elusive phenomena is almost guaranteed. Manitoba Churchill, in the far north of Manitoba, boasts ideal Northern Lights viewing conditions on almost 300 nights a year thanks to its location directly beneath the Aurora oval itself. Relax at Churchill Wild's Seal River Heritage Lodge or Dymond Lake Eco Lodge, where the friendly staff will make sure you don't miss a chance to enjoy the lights. The Churchill Hotel will arrange a night in an Aurora vault - a warmed plexiglass bubble located away from the town's light pollution to provide free views of the incredible show - for an experience you'll never forget. Saskatchewan and Alberta Some of the best northern lights in Canada can be seen in these 2 provinces, mainly because of how the aurora arch hits these two provinces. In Saskatchewan, you'll find a lot of Northern Lights action north of Saskatoon. In this region of the province, there are 11 provincial parks open all year. Pinehouse Lake and La Ronge, as well as the Paws'n'Paddles Wilderness Tours, are two wonderful sites to start your Northern Lights journey. Saskatchewan's license plate slogan, "Land of the Living Skies," is certainly true. The Yukon The most north westerly of Canada’s territories is sparsely populated and has minimal light pollution – stellar conditions for Aurora Borealis sightings. The show is at its best here in the beginning of winter, under the pitch-black sky and better still when you’re watching from an outdoor hot tub. At the Northern Lights Resort & Spa you can observe the northern lights from that hot tub, a teepee, or a cozy cabin with expansive glass walls. Alternatively, keep warm by a wood-fired barrel stove while you wait for the show to begin on a tour organized with Northern Tales Travel Service. For the best photo opportunities, head to the Midnight Dome in Dawson City – a scenic spot that overlooks the Yukon River and epic Klondike Valley, Aurora blazing overhead. Northwest Territories/Nunavut A 2-hour departure from Vancouver on the northern shores of Great Slave Lake, the capital of the Northwest Territories, Yellowknife, lies inland so it's typically liberated from murkiness and cloud ­-fundamental for the most clear view. As a matter of fact, the view is obvious to the point that the Northwest Territories normal 240 evenings every extended period of ideal aurora seeing circumstances. Aurora searchers as a rule stay in inns like The Explorer or Chateau Nova prior to branching away to a survey area. Floor covering up well - or enjoy Aurora Village's fire-warmed Teepee experience. Further off-framework, the eco-grant winning Blachford Lake Lodge and Wilderness Resort is available just through a 25-minute bushplane departure from Yellowknife and offers hotel or log-lodge convenience with in-house gourmet experts.

The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, is a phenomenon that should be experienced in person to truly understand its beauty and magic. From the bright and vivid colors of green, pink and blue, to the ever-changing shapes, the Northern Lights are an amazing sight that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Introduction to the Northern Lights The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light display that can be seen in the night sky in certain parts of the world. It is caused by the interaction between the Earth’s magnetic field and solar particles that are released from the sun. The particles are drawn towards the Earth’s magnetic field and when they collide with atoms in the atmosphere, it causes the release of energy in the form of light. This light is then visible in the night sky and can be seen from many different parts of the world. The Northern Lights are most commonly seen in the northern hemisphere in countries such as Canada, Alaska, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Iceland. However, they can also be seen in other parts of the world such as Australia, New Zealand, and even the United States. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months when the sky is at its darkest. The Northern Lights are most visible in the late evening and early morning hours, when the sky is clear and the air is still. Seeing the Northern Lights is a unique and unforgettable experience that should not be missed. What Causes the Northern Lights? The Northern Lights are caused by the interaction between the Earth’s magnetic field and solar particles that are released from the sun. These particles are drawn towards the Earth’s magnetic field and when they collide with atoms in the atmosphere, it causes the release of energy in the form of light. This light is then visible in the night sky and can be seen from many different parts of the world. The color of the Northern Lights is determined by the type of atom that is being struck by the solar particles. Oxygen atoms produce green and yellow lights, nitrogen atoms produce blue and purple lights, and rarer atoms can produce a variety of other colors. The intensity of the light depends on the strength of the solar particles and the size of the Earth’s magnetic field. The Northern Lights can also be affected by the weather. A clear, dark night sky is the best for seeing the Northern Lights, and clouds and light pollution can reduce visibility. Where and When to See the Northern Lights The Northern Lights can be seen in many different parts of the world, but they are most commonly seen in the northern hemisphere in countries such as Canada, Alaska, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Iceland. However, they can also be seen in other parts of the world such as Australia, New Zealand, and even the United States. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months when the sky is at its darkest. The Northern Lights are most visible in the late evening and early morning hours, when the sky is clear and the air is still. The best way to find out when and where the Northern Lights can be seen is to check the aurora forecast. The aurora forecast will give you an estimate of the best time and place to view the Northern Lights. It is also important to pay attention to the weather forecast, as clouds and light pollution can reduce visibility. Best Spots for Viewing the Northern Lights The best places to see the Northern Lights are in locations that have dark skies and are away from light pollution. Some of the best places to view the Northern Lights include Yellowknife in Canada, Tromso in Norway, and Abisko in Sweden. Other great places to view the Northern Lights include Alaska, Iceland, and Finland. However, the Northern Lights can be seen from many different places and you do not have to travel to a remote location to see them. The best way to find out where and when the Northern Lights can be seen is to check the aurora forecast. The forecast will give you an estimate of the best time and place to view the Northern Lights. How to Prepare for an Aurora Borealis Adventure If you are planning to go on an aurora borealis adventure, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make sure you have the best experience possible. First, you should make sure to check the aurora forecast so you know when and where the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights are. It is also important to pay attention to the weather forecast, as clouds and light pollution can reduce visibility. You should also make sure to dress warmly. The Northern Lights can be seen in many different parts of the world and it can get quite cold, especially during the winter months. Make sure to wear layers and bring a hat and gloves with you. Finally, make sure to bring a camera with you. The Northern Lights are an incredible sight and you will want to capture the moment. Make sure to bring a tripod and extra batteries for your camera so you can take the best pictures possible. Tips for Photographing the Northern Lights If you are planning to take pictures of the Northern Lights, there are a few tips to keep in mind to get the best results. First, make sure to bring a tripod. Taking pictures of the Northern Lights can be challenging as the lights move quickly, and a tripod will help you keep the camera steady and capture the best shots. Second, make sure to use a low ISO setting. A high ISO will cause the photos to be grainy and noisy. Third, make sure to use a wide aperture. A wide aperture will allow more light into the camera and will help you capture the best photos. Fourth, make sure to use a long shutter speed. The Northern Lights move quickly and you will need a longer shutter speed to capture the best shots. Finally, make sure to experiment with different settings. Taking photos of the Northern Lights can be a challenging and rewarding experience, so don’t be afraid to experiment and try different settings to get the best results. Northern Lights Tours & Packages If you are looking for the ultimate experience, there are many tour and package providers that offer Northern Lights tours and packages. These tours and packages typically include transportation, accommodations, and guided tours to see the Northern Lights. The tour providers will typically provide you with the best viewing locations and the best times for viewing the Northern Lights. They will also provide you with tips and advice on how to take the best photos of the Northern Lights. These tours and packages are a great way to experience the Northern Lights in a safe, comfortable, and organized way. Northern Lights FAQs Q. What are the Northern Lights? A. The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, is a phenomenon that is caused by the interaction between the Earth’s magnetic field and solar particles that are released from the sun. The particles are drawn towards the Earth’s magnetic field and when they collide with atoms in the atmosphere, it causes the release of energy in the form of light. Q. Where can I see the Northern Lights? A. The Northern Lights can be seen in many different parts of the world, but they are most commonly seen in the northern hemisphere in countries such as Canada, Alaska, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Iceland. Q. When is the best time to see the Northern Lights? A. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months when the sky is at its darkest. The Northern Lights are most visible in the late evening and early morning hours, when the sky is clear and the air is still. Q. What colors can I see in the Northern Lights? A. The colors of the Northern Lights are determined by the type of atom that is being struck by the solar particles. Oxygen atoms produce green and yellow lights, nitrogen atoms produce blue and purple lights, and rarer atoms can produce a variety of other colors. Amazing Facts About the Northern Lights The Northern Lights are an incredible phenomenon that is full of amazing facts. Here are some of the most interesting facts about the Northern Lights: The scientific name for the Northern Lights is Aurorae Borealis, which comes from the name of the Roman goddess of dawn, Aurora, and the Greek word for north wind, Boreas. The most common colors of the Northern Lights are green, pink, and blue, but they can also be yellow, orange, and even purple. The Northern Lights can be seen from as far away as 1000 miles and can reach heights of over 60 miles. The Northern Lights are caused by solar particles that are released from the sun and are drawn towards the Earth’s magnetic field. The Northern Lights can be seen in the night sky in many parts of the world, including Canada, Alaska, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. Conclusion The Northern Lights are a phenomenon that is truly a must-see experience. From the vibrant colors of green, pink, and blue, to the ever-changing shapes in the night sky, the Northern Lights are an incredible sight that should not be missed. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months when the sky is at its darkest. The Northern Lights are most visible in the late evening and early morning hours, when the sky is clear and the air is still. The Northern Lights can be seen in many different parts of the world, but the best places to view them are in locations that have dark skies and are away from light pollution. Some of the best places to view the Northern Lights include Yellowknife in Canada, Tromso in Norway, and Abisko in Sweden. If you are looking for the ultimate experience, there are many tour and package providers that offer Northern Lights tours and packages. These tours and packages will help you have the best possible experience and will allow you to have the best chance of seeing and photographing the Northern Lights. So, what are you waiting for? Experience the magic of the Northern Lights and start planning your aurora borealis adventure today!

I'm Dre Erwin, the photographer you never knew you needed - lucky you guys, eh? I'm here to make sure you never forget my face and that you have the perfect opportunity to show off my photography gear. Yes, I am here to stay and I can only thank all of you wonderful people for the fantastic support! Without your encouragement and kind words, my photography would never have been able to reach the heights it has today. But please don't forget that I do, in fact, sell some merchandise. From photo prints to canvases, mugs and much more - what better way to show your support than with a great souvenir? Of course, after costs and shipping I never really make any money but it's still kind of cool. And I mean, who doesn't love some extra bling? So if you're interested in becoming a part of my photography journey and taking home something special, check out my Etsy store at https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/DreErwinPhotography New Supporter/Subscribers section on the Website Thank you all so much for the wonderful support! I'm so grateful for all the encouragement and kind words. I have never seen a Facebook page with so many recommendations as mine all thanks to all of you. Without you, my photography wouldn't be possible. I appreciate each and every one of you for making my journey so special. Thank you for believing in me and my work. Also, remember that if any of you want to subscribe, this option is still available: https://www.facebook.com/becomesuppo.../DreErwinPhotography/ There has been and will be many perks to becoming a supporter such as 20% discounted merch, free digital prints, and of course bragging rights. For those who are already a supporter, many thanks! I plan on updating new digital prints for you all soon. Please message me at any time and I look forward to doing live videos with you this year :) Thanks again for all the love - let's keep this dream alive! Favorite quote: I escape from my daily life by putting the camera to my face. Through the lens, all I can see is what I'm focusing on. I let go of all my worries and only notice the beauty I'm attempting to concentrate on and that in itself is my therapy. #therapeuticphotography - And lastly, don’t forget to share your photos with me too so make sure you join my Facebook group Inspiratography I can’t wait to see what kind of memories you’ve captured from my therapeutic photography!

Photographing a sunrise can enhance mindfulness by encouraging you to be present in the moment, observe details, and appreciate the beauty of nature. It prompts a focus on the changing light, colors, and textures, fostering a sense of calm and connection to the surroundings. I woke up yesterday morning and saw stars in the sky. When I went to bed the night before, we had snow falling and it was still very cloudy. I knew by the clearing skies that I might have an opportunity to capture something beautiful on this morning so I started preparing. I got my camera set to the optimal settings, charged my batteries, and located my warm clothing. This time of year can be very dark for long periods of time in Alaska. But I've always been a believer in "out of darkness becomes light" which to me often conveys the idea that even in difficult or challenging situations, there is potential for positive change or enlightenment. It's a metaphorical expression highlighting resilience and growth. I didn't expect this morning to be beautiful as it was the night before and I wanted to take advantage of the possible upcoming opportunity to shoot the beautiful scenery around me. Capturing an unexpected sunrise adds an element of surprise, amplifying mindfulness. The spontaneity encourages you to be fully present, heightening awareness of the unexpected beauty and creating a unique moment to appreciate and savor. I now can savor this morning forever. @toddgravenphotography https://linktr.ee/toddgravenphotography

From the Northern Express -Janice Depeel

Music is therapy. Music is my release.... In one of the music Facebook groups I'min, someone asked to name 10 bands that changed your life and why. I couldn't keep it to 10 and I may add more, but here goes.... This was my response: Beastie Boys - 3rd grade in 1986 I got street teamed by someone that was giving out their cassette tapes. I was playing baseball at a park in my hometown in Ohio when someone gave a large group of us their first album. I'm glad my parents were open to letting me listen to it. Turns out, I read in their book 15 years later that they were taking a break from their tour with Madonna and stayed with someone from their production crew that was from my hometown..... crazy. Could have been one of them handing out those tapes... that started my love for music Living Colour - obsessed with Vernon Reids guitar in 7th and 8th grade. Public Enemy - 8th grade.... I had been listening to rap and hip hop for 4-5 years now but Fear of a Black Planet was way different than what I've ever heard before. Smashing Pumpkins - Siamese Dream, Gish, and Pisces Iscariot were the soundtrack to my high school days. The Pharcyde- labcabincalifornia introduced me to J Dilla and his amazing beats. That album was played almost daily in college. Incubus - S.C.I.E.N.C.E was played almost in its entirety the first time I saw them. Free show in New Orleans and only about 15-20 people saw them kill it on stage. They acted like there were 20k in Jimmy's Uptown. Radiohead - I had been a fan in the 90s but KID A is my favorite album ever. The first time I heard it I worked at a CD store and my boss handed me tix to a private listening party pre launch of the album. Me and a buddy went to a hotel downtown New Orleans and they put a couple hundred of us in a conference room and lit insence, turned down the lights, and made us lay in comfortable bean bags. They cranked up the volume, told us to be quiet, and listen to the album in its entirety before taking questions after it. What an experience. I'm sure it was put on by the record label. Mahavishnu Orchestra - the most under rated band of all time. I saw John Mclaughlin perform with Chick Corea and was mesmerized by his guitar skills that night. It was when they made the 5 Peace Band album together with some heavy hitters. The Meters - the godfathers of Funk. The best rhythm section of all time and the true sound of New Orleans. I was able to catch a show in Denver when the original 4 members reunited briefly in the mid 2000s. Fela Kuti - all I can say is WOW. he's a musical God. Introduced me to Afrobeat. Deftones - the first time I saw them they were opening for 311. I never heard of them before. Adrenaline had just come out. Chino stage dived like 6 times and I was floored by their stage presence. They were my new favorite band after that performance. Circa Survive - Juturna got me through Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and my helped me heal. Hum - top 5 band for me. They have everything I love about music in their sound. Good lyrics, riffs, solid rhythm section. Textures and tones that I love. Ups and downs...quiet and heavy. Holy Fawn - my favorite band since 2018. Amazing live. They sounded like the band I was looking for, for years. When I heard Death Spells I was floored. And they keep putting out solid music. Mars volta - de-loused in the Comatorium was introduced to me by a friend that was so excited for me to listen to it. He pressed play, and my jaw was on the ground for the next hour What are yours?

Addiction and mental health disorders affect millions of people worldwide on a daily basis, but recovery is possible despite being a lengthy and demanding process. One unconventional yet effective tool that has helped many individuals overcome these challenges is night photography. This therapeutic form of photography provides a peaceful and serene environment for capturing natural wonders such as the aurora borealis. It offers a creative outlet for individuals struggling with addiction, providing respite from daily life's stresses and triggers. Therapeutic photography is not only effective in addiction recovery, but it can also play a crucial role in preventing addiction and promoting overall mental health and wellbeing. Regular engagement in this activity can lead to the development of healthy coping mechanisms and stress management strategies. Moreover, therapeutic photography is an affordable and accessible form of therapy that requires only a camera and an open mind. It can be done alone or with a group, making it flexible and adaptable for individuals from all walks of life. The Northern Lights, a natural phenomenon that is a spectacular display of beauty, is visible in high-latitude regions such as Norway, Canada, and Alaska. For individuals struggling with addiction and mental health challenges, witnessing the Northern Lights can be a powerful experience that provides a sense of hope and a renewed appreciation for the world around them. To capture pictures of the Aurora Borealis with a phone or camera, one should choose a location with low light pollution, use a tripod, a high ISO setting, a wide-angle lens, and adjust exposure settings as needed. Experimentation with different settings is encouraged to capture the perfect shot. In conclusion, night photography, the Northern Lights, and the Law of Attraction are potent tools that can help individuals develop greater self-awareness, process their emotions, and find inspiration and hope on their path to healing from addiction and mental health challenges. Therapeutic photography is an accessible form of therapy that requires only a camera and an open mind. You can start this activity on your own or with a group of friends, no matter where you live. Simply grab your camera or smartphone, find a location with low light pollution, and start capturing the beauty of the night sky. Experiment with different camera settings to find what works best for you and enjoy the process of capturing images that inspire and uplift you. To obtain further information, you can reach out to Dre Erwin or refer to the following links. https://theoneproject.co/therapeutic-photography/ https://www.headwayclinic.ca/therapeutic-photography-how-visual-art-can-be-healing/ https://blog.depositphotos.com/therapeutic-photography.html

https://youtu.be/YS299z6ahsk?si=627O3y5UB6qxlO8C Rick Rubin has influenced most of us in some way and you may not even recognize his name. If you've listened to ANY in any genre music in the last 40 years, chances are you have listened to an album that Rick has been a part of. If you do a quick Google search of "Rick Rubin albums" you'll find something that you love on that list. Where Rick excels at is coaching people to be creative. Check out the podcast link on this post to have your mind blown in his thought processes and how to succeed in life in general. Take care of yourself first! He's a treasure and one of the most influential people in the world.

Wow, I can't believe the impact of the solar wind speed and interplanetary magnetic field data! The weather networks automated detection system picked up on it immediately and I just had to share it. Right now, the solar wind speed is at an impressive 500km/s, but what's really getting me excited is the interplanetary magnetic field. The Bt (total strength) just jumped to 25nT, with a -23nT southward Bz component - these are the perfect ingredients for some seriously strong G3 geomagnetic storm conditions. If these values keep up in the hours ahead, we could be in for a real treat with possible aurora sightings for middle latitude sky watchers tonight! But that's not all - the aurora is actually already active this evening, and it's expected to last past sunset. Of course, it might be a bit tricky to spot it, given that it will only be visible in a few areas with clear skies, and the cloud forecasts can be unpredictable. Just keep in mind that the Kp8, a G4 storm, peaked already today during daylight hours so be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully before venturing out on your Aurora chasing adventure. Good luck, and happy hunting! In addition to the exciting news about the solar wind speed and interplanetary magnetic field, it's worth mentioning the weather forecast across Canada and the northern states of the USA. You should keep an eye on the weather conditions, as they can have a big impact on your aurora viewing experience. Some areas may be experiencing cloudy or rainy weather, while others may have clear skies that are perfect for stargazing. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before heading out on your adventure, and make sure you dress appropriately for the conditions. Good luck and have fun! Consider joining Aurora Borealis Facebook groups based on your location to stay updated: Saskatchewan Aurora Hunters Alberta Aurora Chasers Manitoba Aurora Borealis Enthusiasts Michigan Aurora Chasers Aurora Borealis Notifications Group https://community.spaceweatherlive.com

After visiting my sister and her family there a few weeks ago, we fell in love with Victoria. If you plan to travel by air, arrive in Sidney (20 minutes from Victoria), then reserve a rental car at the airport. When seeking tranquilly in or around Victoria, finding an ocean view is one of the most important things to do. Every sunset is an opportunity to reset. -Richie Norton It was oftentimes tough to find the drive to even walk outside and explore when there was an ocean view right outside your back door, but you can do it! You could spend the entire day admiring yachts and boats and even reading about their features online. The best things to do in and around Victoria BC (Haven't done them all yet) Beers and fish at Pier Bistro (Sidney) Tour the British Columbia Parliament Building Walk around Victoria Old Town and Chinatown Enjoy the famous Tea at the Empress Hike around Beacon Hill Park Watch the sunset from the Inner Harbor Visit the Royal BC Museum Stroll around Fishermans’s Wharf Admire Craigdarroch Castle Tour and amazing beaches Take a trip to the Butchart Gardens Go on a Ocean tour/whale watching tour Victoria, a city full of adventure and surrounded by water. The southernmost point of Vancouver Island is home to the coastal capital of British Columbia, which enjoys stunning views of the Salish Sea and the straits of Juan de Fuca and the Haro. I would advise doing it at least once. We had the opportunity to take a boat excursion through the Gulf Islands. After a day on the water, make sure you spend some times walking around downtown Victoria. The territory that makes up Victoria's Old Town is situated between Chatham Street (the northern boundary), Humboldt Street (the southern boundary), Douglas Street (the eastern boundary), the Wharf and Store Streets, and the Waterfront (west border). As Victoria Old Town is a fairly pleasant spot to roam around, you could easily spend the entire afternoon here. It's time to head outside of Victoria's downtown to see the renowned Butchart Gardens. These lovely gardens, which are only 20 km north of Victoria, are a wonderful destination to spend the day. The Butchart Gardens are a National Historic Site of Canada and were created as a consequence of Jenny Butchart's inspiration, fervor, and commitment. There is the Sunken Garden, which Jennie Butchart planted as the very first garden way back in 1904, as well as Japanese, Italian, and Mediterranean gardens as well as the enticing Rose Garden. A coffee shop, restaurant, and gift shop are also there, as well as a lot of seeds. The Rose Carousel, which features 30 hand-carved wooden animals, is another attraction, especially for families with young children. The cost of a carousel ride is merely 2CAD! "The golden hour can be simultaneously shared with the ones we love and care about and lived as a very personal and spiritual occasion" While in Victoria make sure you head to Beacon Hill Park for some of Victoria's best walking trails if you want to burn some calories. The park has a number of hiking trails, a gorgeous pond, a children's zoo, and lovely flowers. A viewpoint overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca may be found here, along with the highest free-standing totem pole in the entire globe. We only stayed for five days, but we were able to enjoy the coast and Victoria's winding roads, paddle boarding, boat tours, and we can't wait to return! Along the ocean in Victoria, there are numerous beaches, cute boutiques, and my favorite pubs that offer the greatest halibut and beer money can buy. When you do decide to leave your current accommodation, though, be sure to stop in Sydney at least once. Victoria, British Columbia is the ideal getaway if you love photography. No matter what there is to see and do, the best part was spending time with friends and family. There is a lot to see, but not enough time! The butterfly gardens sounded interesting to me as well. In Victoria, where would you recommend visiting?

I love this quote: "Set your life on fire. Seek those that fan your flame"! My translation to that is this: dont be hanging out with people always wanting to pull you down or make you look bad. The prerequisite to hangout out with any person is that they nourish and inspire you. They feed your flame! Look around you..who are the people you call friends? Who are the ones you text most often and talk to? Do they believe in you and support you? For me, I have always removed those who try to bring me down. When I was in high school, all some of my closet friends did was smoke up...they sat around, did nothing but get high, joke around, play video games, and get nowhere in life! I remember a kid, 14 years old dropped out of school just to hang out with them more often...and what did any of them do? Well put it this way, they didn't discourage him from dropping out that's fore-sure. So for me, leaving this group of friends was very tuff at the time...these were my buddies and at the time I couldn't see myself not hanging out with them! But, if it wasn't for my bravely and courage at the time to walk away, I wouldn't be where I am and who I am today! Always have a person beside you fanning your flames! Drop your phone for a second and look around you...are the ones you talk to and keep close throwing logs on your flame or pissing on it?! Thanks Will Smith for the encouragement :)