Barco De Los Fomo-Boat of the FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out)

July found us on many adventures as we continue to explore the vast beauty of British Columbia. Our annual trip to Vasa Park at Pigeon Lake allowed brief ventures into both Yoho & Banff National Parks for hiking and canoeing. Most importantly, it brought us to dozens of cousins and time on the family lake. We slept late, embraced the sun and rain and laughed away our aggravations and concerns surrounding the pandemic. For a brief week, we escaped the craziness of the present and just enjoyed family and nature. 

In July we also welcomed our first visitors into our newly renovated BC home. The Wysynski Family, hailing from Edmonton, filled our house with laughter, libations and lake time. Collectively, we finally came up with the ideal name for our pontoon boat, having owned it for over a year. "Barco De Los FOMO" or Boat of the FOMO (slang for Fear Of Missing Out) is reflective of our New Mexican history, our blog name and Eric's nearly limitless need to be in the midst of others. All credits go to to Kiri, a marketing executive, who's creative mind is always astir.  

  

We spent time on 2 lakes, Okanagan and Kalmalka, road the nearly 26K bike trail over the trestles at Myra Canyon Provincial Park, https://www.myracanyonrental.com/, dined with dear friends at Grey Monk Winery's Lookout Restaurant http://www.graymonk.com/our-restaurant/about-lookout/ and enjoyed the small batch spirits tasting at Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery. https://okanaganspirits.com/. The raspberry liquor and Evolve Gin are unforgettable as was the opportunity to introduce 2 families we adore, the Wysynski Family and the Worms Family.

In between adventures we enjoyed California-style margaritas, chats over coffee, cards and naps. The 3 boys, Gavin, Ben and Alex turned the basement into a teen-only venue and splashed in the Worms pool at their leisure. The Worms also hosted all 7 of us for dinner and pool time. (Did I mention our neighbours are amazing?)

As is customary following a week of sheer fun and love, our hearts are full, our liquor cabinet and pantry culled and our home has fallen quiet. More than ever, we are so happy to have a life filled with others! 

Embracing The Day

Bonjour from BC!


We have had a very productive winter in the province this year, and the mountains around our valley are stilled adorned, in their white robes of snow. Snowshoe and cross country ski trails abound and we continue to explore this vast and mountainous environment. 

Knox Mountain Trail

In addition to the plenty of mother nature, our new friends have brought us laughter and adventures with parties, gala's and considerable consumption of libations. After all, we are in the largest wine country in the WORLD! Friends have reminded us of the cathartic ride only a serious hangover can provide! We bought Advil in bulk over the holiday season.

Eric, Living The Dream

Gavin is rocking his academics and slowly but surely his social life is evolving. Despite his teen years we insist he join us in even the "less than cool" activities, reminding him of his only child status, and his obligation to hang out with us, while time allows. 

Christmas Morning Compfies

Our Patrol Leader

Scouts has kept the entire family busy as we continue to work together to fund raise for Gavin's July trip to Poland and Amsterdam. Working with Scouts to manage the travel plans in lieu of the Coronavirus has been a learning curve as we wait to see what the next 90 days brings in its development. Gavin has been hosting bottle drives, assisting with silent auctions and making gifts for trading with more planned for this spring. The adventures Gavin has experienced with Scouts here have been unforgettable thus far. Snowshoeing by moonlight, across frozen lakes, while pulling sleds filled with gear, ice fishing, explosives, prepping of meals and planning their own trips has brought much learning through both success and failures. (Nothing like having to pull your food on a sled to force you to plan your next grocery store shopping more carefully. :) With my recent Volunteer admission I look forward to going on the next trek with his group and seeing more of the province.

Swinging at The Fair

As for me, I am finally eligible to work in Canada, having in hand my Permanent Residency Card. Thus, I have been investigating possible employment opportunities that align with my personal goals to CONNECT AND CONTRIBUTE, while leveraging my skills. 

Me Getting my PR Card in Vancouver

I have not worked full-time in 15 years so I am equally excited and anxious at once. The conclusion of 2019 brought much to light as I celebrated by 50th trip around our sun. Eric and Gavin shocked me with a very successful surprise party at our house. I was so stunned, it rendered me speechless. Decorations, all of the 35 people we actually know, and a custom cake from my dear friend filled me with equal parts alcohol and gratitude. I had a blast and thank all who came to help me celebrate. I plan to rock the next few decades and PLAY BIG!