Family Time

My sister and I are five years apart, my brother and I are three. Growing up, the age difference was apparent, and as the older sister, I didn't really want much to do with the youngens'. But, as we got older, there was a shift in our attitudes toward one another, and we began to grow closer and closer to the relationship we have today.

With age comes decisions and changes, including the decision to move away from home. After University, I was the first to go, venturing off to Alaska with my future husband. At the time, you don't really understand the effect moving such a far distance has on the rest of your family, including your siblings. You just see excitement, adventure, and change. 

As our adventure in Alaska ended and we moved home, we traded places with my sister in Toronto, as she ventured out to British Columbia. It's safe to say, our family has an affinity to the West Coast. 

In the past four years, I can count the number of times my brother, sister, mom, dad and I have been in the same room together on one hand. Sadly, it is few and far between. While my sister and I still remain close, her moving away was an awakening, showing me exactly the effects I had on my family when we made the split second decision to move to Alaska. 

Long story short, I cherish family time. It is no longer taken for granted, but snatched up at every possible opportunity. Including my most recent trip to visit my sister in interior BC.

Here's a quick sneak peak of my family time in the mountains...

Welcome to beautiful British Columbia!

Overlooking the Kootenay Valley

The lil' bro and I

Toby Creek

Lil' sis and I lounging at the top of Panorama.

It doesn't get much better.

More to come in the next couple of days.

What does family mean to you?