“All The Time In The World”

#bloggingfriends, #britishcolumbia, #greenpointcampground, #longbeach, #Relationships, #tofino, #ucluelet, #vancouverisland, Blogging Friends, Camping, Long Beach, photography, Scenery, sunsets, time, Vancouver Island 3 Minutes

A Compelling, Life-changing Film

West Coast Vancouver Island, Pacific Rim National Park

I have purchased only one documentary in my entire life.

“All The Time In The World” by filmmaker, Suzanne Crocker.

Winner of 22 Awards from around the world, including Most Popular Canadian Documentary at the Vancouver International Film Festival in 2014.

Ocean life at Green Point Campground, West Coast Vancouver Island, May 2021

Why Did This Story Catch My Attention?

Friend and Blogging Buddy, Deb, (Widow Badass)
Deb, Richard, (Donna’s husband) & Donna – Friends and Blogging Buddies “Widow Badass” and “Retirement Reflections”

Suzanne Crocker and her husband take their three children, ages 10, 8 and 4 to live off the grid for nine months in the Yukon wilderness.

  • They live in a small cabin with no road access.
  • No technology, no phone, no electricity, no watches, no internet, no running water.
  • Stunning photography. 
  • Inspirational insights and lessons, especially from the children.

A heart-warming, moving, powerful, beautiful story.

Windy day, fog lifting
Tide rolling in – weather changes by the hour

Disconnecting to Reconnect

What would I do if I had “All the Time in the World?”

  • I would leave my watch in a drawer.
  • I would spend relaxed moments listening and sharing with my loved ones.
  • I would take slow, deep breaths and not call it meditation. 
  • I would sit quietly listening to the ocean, to the birds, to the leaves rustling.
  • I would go for a meandering stroll, the steps taking me where my heart leads me.
  • I would hang out with friends, laugh and tell stories about everything and about nothing.
Me, Chuck (my husband), Deb, Donna, Richard (Donna’s Husband) – waiting for the sun to set
  • I would sit and watch a sunset, thankful for another day, another breath, another heartbeat.
West Coast Vancouver Island, Pacific Rim National Park

I have all the Time in the World.

That Time is called Now.

What would You do if you had “All The Time In The World?” 

Behind The Scenery

Serendipity!  Synchronicity!  What are the chances?!  

Me, Deb, Donna, Richard – waiting for the sun to set

This is an unusual year for reserving campsites. Many new restrictions and a new reservation system for Parks Canada.

My husband and I set up a reservation at Greenpoint Campsite near Tofino the second the online reservation system opened up.

The only campsites available were at the end of May for our annual West Coast, Pacific Rim National Park camping trip.

The day prior to leaving we found out wonderful friends and bloggers, Deb, and Donna with her husband, Richard, were staying at Greenpoint Campground.

The EXACT SAME WEEKEND we were camping there!

Deb was our immediate neighbour and Donna and Richard were camping three sites away from us.

What are the chances?!

Fun! 

My Favourite Song From “All The Time In The World”

“The Year We Lived” by Anne Louise Genest on the soundtrack “All The Time In The World”  by Alex Houghton and Anne Louise Genest

I share my YouTube video below, along with this song and more photos from “Our West Coast Camping Adventure.”

“Gemutlichkeit…..Gezelligheid”

Thank you to Deb, Donna, Richard and Chuck ❤️

“Our West Coast Camping Adventure”

(You may recognize a couple of your favourite bloggers and the two amazing men in our lives xo)

Deb and Donna share beautiful photos and more stories about their Tofino camping adventure here:

Deb: The Widow Badass Blog – Tofino Camping

Donna: Retirement Reflections – Tofino Camping

Link for more information to the documentary: “All The Time In The World”

Re photos in this post: all photos were taken at Green Point Campground, on the West Coast of Vancouver Island the end of May, 2021 – beginning June, 2021

Copyright: ©️ 2018 – 2021 behindthesceneryphoto.com – Erica Henault – All rights reserved. All photographs and writing are my own unless otherwise noted. 

Published

172 thoughts on ““All The Time In The World””

  1. What a gorgeous place. I can easily get off the grid there. For me, watching sunrises and sunsets complete a beautiful day. Thanks for the tour.

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    1. Thank you for your kind, supportive words, Antoinette. You share a great deal of beauty, too, from your neck of the woods. We had a mixed bag of weather which is expected on the West Coast. A wonderful place to rest and recharge.🙂

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  2. What a pictorial treat! Sounds like you had a wonderful “all the time in the world.” Thank you for sharing this fun experience. Watching a sunset while chatting with friends is heavenly! Stunning images Erica. Loved this post.

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    1. Thank you for your kind, thoughtful comment, Balroop. We had a variety of sunsets and very different from our Fall camping trips. Meeting up with Deb, Donna and Richard was definitely the icing on the cake. Tons of fun! I am back ‘on the grid’ and I look forward to catching up and reading your posts. xo ❤️

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    1. And back at you, ‘Beautiful Joanne!’ ❤️We had an amazing time on the West Coast and the weather and scenery was very different from our Fall camping trips. You have likely heard some of the ‘inside scoop’ from Deb. So much fun to meet up with the Donna, Richard and Deb! (By the way, the wine on the beach sunsets was photo shopped in)😅

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  4. Wow, Erica! What a wonderful post! Those photos! And that video!!! I bow down before you!!!!
    I will be coming back to this again and again.
    And of course, what a wonderful, serendipitous time we shared together.
    I am going to look up the documentary you mentioned also.
    Thanks so much for this!

    Deb

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    1. You were definitely an important part of making our getaway wonderful, Deb!❤️ Along with Donna and Richard! ❤️ I am a little disappointed how the picture quality does not transfer well to a YouTube video. The feelings and sentiments are still there. I had set up a YouTube channel a few years ago, for sharing a couple of videos with family, Back East.

      I bought the documentary quite a few years ago. The messages really stayed with me. Also, a favourite song. The Yukon always has a special place in my heart.

      I love the meaning behind your word “Gezelligheit” (or it was something like this). It conveys a beautiful message. ❤️

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    1. Thank you for your kind, thoughtful comment, as always, Jill.❤️ Our present restriction in British Columbia is not travelling between distinct regions. We are able to travel within our district, Vancouver Island. Many people from the mainland had to cancel their reservations, opening up some last minute campsites on the West Coast. Therefore, the wonderful coincidence to camp with Deb, Donna and Richard. ❤️

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    1. I like how you word this, Nancy “a FUN wink.” 😀You likely have found the Universe wink at you throughout your life. We had an amazing time. I hope all is well and I look forward reading and catching up on your posts. 🙂

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  7. I think it is wonderful that you guys all ended up in the same place together. Sharing times like these with friends makes the experience all the sweeter. Your photographs are beautiful. I especially love the tidepool pics. Those are simply other-worldly. The slide show pulls it all together nicely and conveys a peaceful feeling. Did you use IMovie? I am also impressed that you added your choice of songs. You will have to teach me how to do that. I haven’t gotten past choosing the ones available with the program. Take care. Nice to see you out and about.

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    1. Hi Suzanne, I definitely had some hiccups on putting together a YouTube video. The quality of the photos does not transfer well to YouTube, yet I wanted to share more photos and the song from the film (for those interested in seeing more photos). I wanted to at least share the feelings and sentiments.❤️

      I narrowed down a couple thousand photos to 95. You know how difficult this is, Suzanne. 😀I did not want to spend too much time on this and I did minimal editing.

      The Photos app changed significantly from the previous iPhoto’s app when it comes to making a slideshow ‘project’ and any other projects. My narrowed down and in order Photo playlist transferred randomly to a ‘Project’ file, so the photos are all over the place. At least I was able to use 3 songs.

      Ironically and totally a coincidence – the 95 photos fit exactly to the time frame of the 3 songs. I do believe the Universe works in mysterious ways. You are right, how IMovie might have been a better choice.

      I look forward to reading about your new adventures, Suzanne. I hope all is well.

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  9. Absolutely stunning photos, Erica. As I say to a friend of mine who’s constantly posting his shots online, “That ain’t from no cell phone camera, dude.” 😉 How cool that it worked out all of you stayed there at the same time — I love serendipity. Looks like it was fun! – Marty

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    1. Thank you, Marty. The West Coast has ample photo opportunities. The challenge is always to narrow down the many photos I take. It is all definitely my happy place.

      The cell phone cameras have improved a great deal and the colour of the photos are more true to life. Our other cameras work better when we want to Zoom into a view. This happens especially when we see and want to photograph animals. Donna, Deb and I (and our wonderful significant others) were totally blown away by serendipity. Fun!🙂

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    1. Mission accomplished, Alisha. ❤️You are definitely your Mother’s daughter. (And your Father’s daughter lol). The quality of the photos deteriorates when it gets on YouTube. Also, my ‘project’ folder scrambled up my photos order. I only placed the first photo and the last 2 photos and the rest were in random order. At least I was able to add the music ( btw – the 3 songs I selected fit the exact 95 photos I picked) I did minimal editing and I did not want to spend too much time on this project. Behind on all of our Home things and of course wanting to see family and friends. Hope you and loved ones are well.❤️

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    1. Thank you, Brad. I purchased this documentary a few years ago and the messages have always stayed with me. I also really like the music in the film. I love how you say “slowing and savoring life.” We always love our camping trips for many reasons. We had the added bonus of coincidentally meeting up with friends.😀 I know how much you love nature. It always shows, Brad, in your beautiful words and photos.❤️

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  14. A profound reflection on creating powerful moments. I lived in Northern Manitoba in an isolated mining town where “off the grid” was a reality. There were no roads to the outside world – the only way in was by plane or an ore train that traveled the 200 miles in 11 hours. When I was entering college, I went farther north on an archeological expedition. Living off the grid is about finding an inner voice, of understanding that isolation is not loneliness. The world comes to you. But – there is always a caveat when you are off the grid because if there is any accident, the hospitals are far away, dentists don’t make house calls, and the pharmacy is hundreds of miles away. A wonderful post, Erica. Your reminded me of a very special time in my life.

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    1. Hi Rebecca, I read your comment before my husband and I left for a walk today. I shared some of your thoughts about living off the grid. You know first hand about how isolation is not necessarily loneliness. You also bring up great points how living off the grid is not always idyllic. We used to live in the Yukon, yet we also wanted to have children. They would often fly medical emergencies south to a bigger city. You would have amazing stories to share and likely adventures on the archeological expedition. Like you say “…a special time in my life.” Thank you for sharing your interesting and thoughtful comment.

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    1. Thank you for your thoughtful, encouraging words, Deborah. I often think about you when we are away and taking photos. I almost always take along a tripod and use it. This is why I have some photos of the two of us. I am still in awe of your bird photos. We were fortunate how it all turned out and we had an excellent time. ❤️

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  16. My favorite songs and place. Photoshopped in the wine….LOL. You rebel.
    It has been many years since I have seen starfish on the rocks. It is good to see them recovering after the sea star wasting disease outbreak of 2014-2015.
    Serendipity, wink of the universe, co-incidence whatever you call it. It was a pleasure to meet up with the blogging buddies. Now my challenge is to finish their choice of driftwood to commemorate this expedition.
    Yes, I too got misty (must be from from the ocean fog) while watching the video.

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      1. I was initially ‘wondering’ about this new hair thing and now I don’t want Chuck to cut his hair…..at least for awhile longer, until I get tons of photos.😀…..I may have to do a special, cutting hair/barber future post…….Marty (Snakes in the grass) suggested this to me a few months ago. 😀

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    2. I always feel our wine and glasses put us in the glamping category. At least we are not drinking out of a flask. 😀Yet. 😎It was such a treat to see the tidal pools this year and the starfish. This may be a rare occurrence since the tide was very far out and we don’t usually camp in May. I look forward to seeing how this driftwood comes to life. Also a huge treat to meet up with Deb, Donna and Richard. ‘Misty watching the video’…..mission accomplished. ❤️

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    1. Hi Betsy, Your children and you and your husband may enjoy this film. I bought it a few years ago and it really stayed with me. I ended up reading “Watership Down” this year, because the Dad reads this book out loud to the children. Likely something the parents would not have had time for when they were both working. It was a great camping trip for us on many levels.😀

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        1. I was really curious about this book after watching “All The Time In The World.” I wonder whether it is appropriate for young children since it covers some deep topics (even though they are rabbits). The Father was reading this book to his children and they all seemed very engrossed in the story. It is considered a literary classic. I am curious to hear your opinion of it, when you get a chance to read it, Betsy. 😀

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            1. I believe we are still talking about “Watership Down” Betsy. It was actually quite an indepth, multilayered book. The group of rabbits had challenges and they were looking for a new home. I think the word is anthropomorphised. Dominance and leaders and rabbits getting injured. This book won all sorts of awards. It became an animated children’s series. Therefore, the themes and stories can be interpreted on many levels.

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            3. I recall some injuries……yet I don’t recall all of the details. I suspect these types of stories may be teaching moments. As you know, it also depends on the child.

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  18. This was so much fun to read, Erica. I’ve heard all about your wonderful trip with Deb and Donna (I’m so jealous) but your photos and video really made the weekend come alive. I hope that when we are up there visiting that we will be able to get over to the west coast again. It truly is a magical place. You’ll have to tell me where those tidepools are… I love tidepools!

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    1. I figured you would have heard a few versions of this camping trip, Janis.😀 Chuck and I did not leave Greenpoint campground. Many hiking trails from there and a long beach area. The tidal pools were on this beach by a large rock area. The tide was very far out and we were able to visit the sea life. Starfish are making a comeback on the Island. I think a disease had harmed them years ago. In the past we have gone to an area called Botanical Beach to see tidepools. The timing has to be right. We are fortunate to live in a magical place. Meeting up with Deb, Donna and Richard was a special treat. ❤️

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  19. Reblogged this on Retirement Reflections and commented:
    What what you do if you had all of the time in the world? Using the backdrop of our recent synchronistic camping adventure, Erica of Behind The Scenery, reflects brilliantly on this question. Be sure to watch her slide show with soul-inspiring music. It will immediately transport you to the calming beaches of Tofino, BC. See you there!

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    1. Your photography, writing, end movie-making skills are exceptional. They combined brilliantly together and left me more than misty-eyed. Thank you for taking us all back to Tofino. It is an experience that I will forever cherish! ❤

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      1. Thank you, again, Donna, for the reblog. You, Richard and Deb made our camping trip extra special.❤️ I left you a longer note on your previous comment. I agree wholeheartedly “forever cherish.” ❤️

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    2. Thank you for the reblog, Donna. Our camping trip was tons of fun! The video had a few hiccups, especially how the quality of the photos does not transfer well to YouTube. Also, when I moved my pictures file to a project file, the order of the pictures scrambled and I did not want to devote many hours to unscrambling. I still think the good feelings, memories and sentiments are there. Thank you to you and Richard for being part of this fun adventure.❤️ You are spot on about “the calming beaches…” ❤️

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  20. That sounds like bliss. No watch, no labels (on meditation or otherwise), time to sit and reflect on the sights, sounds, cycles and textures of nature. Those rockpools, those sweeping coast lines, those magnificent skies, that time with friends. I’m envious – but in a very good way.

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    1. Thank you, Jo, for your kind, supportive words. You ‘get it’ on the no labels and the time to sit and reflect. The meditation one is actually a new thought. I consciously try to ‘make myself’ meditate each day at home (almost stressful lol). When out in nature, it happens naturally. We were very fortunate to meet up with Donna, Richard and Deb and have lots of fun! Now that I am back on the grid I look forward to catching up on your beautiful photos and connecting. ❤️

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  21. Erica your video brought ‘happy’ tears. You have captured the essence of what life is about. Time with family, friends and time away from the ‘world’ to rediscover the beautiful world that we live in. Thank you my friend, for sharing your special time with us and recording this beautiful video. Sending love and hugs xx

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    1. I admire your video skills, Sue. I had a few hiccups putting a mini slideshow on YouTube. The quality of the photos does not transfer well and the order of the photos scrambled when I moved the photos into a “project” file. The feelings and sentiments are there. ❤️ I saw this documentary a few years ago and it left a huge impact on me. This special “time” did help replenish my energy. It was a huge treat to coincidentally meet up with Donna, Richard and Deb. It made our camping trip extra special. Now that I am back on the grid I look forward to catching up with you and how you share your beautiful essence with all of us. ❤️

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  22. How wonderful to share your time with us, Erica! What a staggeringly beautiful area, places I long to visit someday now that we are so much closer geographically! We spent time with family last weekend as one of our own passed away in Portland, OR. Most of us hadn’t seen each other and it truly was special to just sit and gather around my dear cousin to say goodbye to her husband as we loved each other and reconnected. AS we age, these moments are simply essential because we cannot get them back. Thanks for the amazing reminder of what is important.

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    1. Hi Terri, I am very sorry to hear about the passing of your cousin’s husband. Everything pales in comparison and like you say well, it is an amazing reminder of what is important. I have read about your move and how you are geographically much closer. I can see a fun, future get together, possibly on The Island. I am grateful every day for living in this area. Extra thankful to be able to see Donna, Richard and Deb. Thank you for sharing your thoughtful words.

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  23. Absolutely LOVED this whole post Eric and what an epic sounding film. Sounds like just the tonic for our weary world. If we had all the time in the world I’d be catching all those sunrises and sunsets too and immersing in nature at every chance. Thanks for sharing your photos and amazing adventures. And wow, how synchronistic!! Life really is amazing isn’t it. Truly loved this!!! 💜💙

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    1. Hi Miriam, I saw this film a few years ago and it has really stayed with me for many reasons. I know how much you and your husband love the outdoors and camp whenever you have the opportunity. Like you say “immersing in nature.” The synchronistic part of it still blows me away. Especially with Deb having a campsite right beside us and Donna and Richard close by. Everything about setting up camp this year was different and unpredictable. I feel the Universe was bringing us closer together for a reason, showing us how compatible we are. Ultimately, it was a lot of fun. Yes, life is really amazing.❤️

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  24. This was so amazing Erica, it brought tears to my eyes. Your beautiful words , your stunning photos, happy faces, gorgeous scenery, fun with friends and that video just encapsulated it all perfectly! It made me smile that you were all there together without planning it that way and in some small way I feel like I was there with you too. Thanks so much for sharing these wonderful moments and your insightful topic has given me food for thought! xx

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    1. Mission accomplished, Deb, if it brought tears to your eyes. It also brings happy tears to my eyes. The unexpected coincidences were truly the icing on the cake. A huge treat to spend some relaxing fun time with Deb, Donna and Richard. You have me curious about your words “…given me food for thought.” Now that I am back on the grid I look forward to catching up on your posts and connecting with you soon.❤️

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  25. Hi Erica – that was beautiful – the photos and your words…..and they speak very much to what I’ve been feeling over the last few months. The need to get offline, to reconnect to the world (and the people) around me – and to feel more real and more balanced. I actually have a post coming up in a couple of weeks that speaks about this need I’ve experienced (not as eloquently as yours though!) and I’m glad you are finding your way back into peace and presence too xx

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    1. Hi Leanne, The disconnect to reconnect hits home with me too, on many levels. I look forward to seeing what direction this takes you. I appreciate your genuine, candid sharing. We can learn from each other.❤️ It is always a journey.xx

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  26. Thank you for sharing your trip with us, Erica! What a wonderful time you all must have had with the scenery and the fellowship. Your video is very well-done, a lasting memento for everyone to treasure. I watched the trailer for the documentary, and the narrator’s comments about time reminded me of when my family would spend the entire month of August at our camp in the woods in northern Vermont: no running water, no electricity, no phone. It would take about 24 hours to get acclimated to the rhythms of the forest. After that, we had all the time in the world!

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    1. Thank you for your kind, thoughtful words, Liz. The video had a few hiccups. I don’t often place things on YouTube, yet I wanted to make more photos and the music available on this post. The feelings and the sentiments are there. You would likely have special, wonderful memories of your camp in the woods in northern Vermont. I have seen photos of Vermont. Beautiful! I think your Father was a Minister, which likely was a 24/7 calling/life for him. I hope he was able to join you. I love your phrase “rhythms of the forest.” ❤️

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  27. The documentary sounds wonderful, Erica. When I was a kid I wanted to live off the grid with my family, and I made a shopping list of everything we’d need to bring. It was pretty hysterical. I would love to see Crocker’s film. Beautiful photos of your camping trip. What a riot to run into blogging buddies! Lol. And a beautiful reflection on how you would spend all the time in the world… being.

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    1. Your comment made me smile, Diana. Even as a young girl, you were writing things down, creating a list and using your imagination planning all you would need living off the grid.❤️ I saw this film a few years ago and I ended up purchasing it to watch again with family and friends. The photography is stunning and the music, beautiful. A total riot to unexpectedly run into blogging buddies. The Universe is working its magic.😀

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        1. Ha, ha, Diana…ultimately we are all superheroes.😀 It is likely a good idea to check out the trailer for this film. It may not be for everyone. The Yukon has a special place in my heart. I extra love the song “The Year We Lived.”💕

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  28. Hi Erica! What a wonderful way to share your photos and experience with everyone. I had read about your very synchronistic meetup with both Deb and Donna and it is so great to hear your side of the story–and to music!! You’ve really outdone yourself. And I haven’t heard of that documentary you mention but like other commenters are saying, I’m going to look it up. I’ve sort of lost touch with you the last couple of months on FB but was glad to see that Donna reblogged this so I could read and watch it. And hoping that when we get to Parksville this August that we all get a chance to get together again and catch up. ~Kathy

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    1. Hi Kathy, By now you have heard all of our versions of our fun, synchronistic meetup. I saw this documentary a few years ago and the message, the filming, the music is beautiful. I have been off the grid a few times this past year also due to some family challenges. I hope you and Thom are well. I look forward to seeing the both of you and catching up.xx

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  29. I’ll tell you what I would not do: no TV, news, politics. Only good literature, friends, excellent food and wine and seeing the world, maybe also learning a craft, and taking up the guitar (harder to travel with a piano)

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    1. Nice to meet you, Luisa. I wholeheartedly agree with you about “only good literature, friends, excellent food and wine…” Eliminating the not so good things hopefully opens up more time for the good things in our lives. Thank you for your thoughtful comment.

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  30. What a sweet video and post. I remember reading about your chance encounter on Donna’s blog. What an unexpected blessing! The time that goes into your posts shines through, Erica, Nothing quite as good as sharing these special moments with family and friends.

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    1. Thank you, Pete, for your kind, supportive words. Meeting Deb, Donna and Richard was definitely an unexpected blessing and a lot of fun. It gave us a chance to get to know each other better in a relaxed, beautiful setting. I had a few hiccups putting the video on YouTube and the quality of the photos does not transfer well. The sentiments and memories are there. I am happy to read how you have had the opportunity to visit your son and his girlfriend. And, how you will be making new memories this Summer. 🙂

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    1. The phrase “meant to be” says it perfectly, Anabel. 😀You remind me about “What a Wonderful World” and how I quickly picked 3 songs for the slideshow, not giving it much thought. Coincidentally, the total seconds of the 3 songs equals the exact time for the photos I selected. Yes, meant to be.

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  32. Erica, a wonderful and uplifting post to start my day!😀 After reading how the documentary touched you so deeply I will try and find a copy for myself.

    Oh, your photos are sublime and I feel my soul floating on the whimsical wispy clouds and as for the endless ocean – breathtaking. Awww … it was meant for you to meet your two blogging friends! What amazing serendipity and you all look so happy just being together, celebrating life and all its precious wonders. Having fun … together!

    As we are so twinned in our approach to life my wishes if I had all the time in the world mirrors so many of yours … I would add travel, travel and some more travel! Meeting family and friends along the way.

    Thank you for your beautiful video and introduction to the songs … here’s to “Gemutlichkeit…..Gezelligheid”!

    With much love & hugs xx ❤️🤗

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    1. Hi Annika, I saw the documentary a few years ago and I purchased it to share with friends and family. It did and does touch me deeply on many levels. The Yukon always has a special place in my heart. You may want to check out the trailer before you decide it is something you want to see. I love the song, “The Year We Lived.”

      The serendipity and synchronicity still blows me away. We were all able to connect in a relaxed, beautiful setting. This also reminds me about our serendipitous meeting, Annika. I am happy to hear you are able to travel (sort of) again. I am back ‘on the grid’ and I look forward to reading your beautiful words and all about your adventures. And, yes, here is to Gemutlichkeit ….. Gezelligheid! xx ❤️🦋

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  34. Hi Erica/ Erika, What a wonderful, serendipitous time you’ve had with Donna, Richard and Deb. Your beautiful photos and video brought back so many good memories as I was in Tofino two years ago, my last out-of province trip before the pandemic. Tofino and the Pacific Rim NP are magical places. We’re fortunate to have them in Canada. I love the images and the songs you chose to share, especially Louis Armstrong’s voice and What A Wonderful World. I hope to re-visit Vancouver Island in the near future. Thank you for sharing this lovely post.

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    1. You know first hand, Natalie, about Magical and Pacific Rim National Park. Locals seem to call the entire area between Ucuelet and Tofino, Long Beach. Like you know there are many beaches and trail heads and infinite places to explore. My husband and I always set ourselves up to not leave Green Point campground. From there, we can hike for hours along the shore and on trails. A great way to decompress and enjoy nature. Wonderful to re-visit Vancouver Island. We have ice cream here, too.😀

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  35. It’s been many years since we’ve been to Tofino but I love spending time watching the waves roll in and out. It’s a special place and how cool that you “accidentally” spent it with friends. As I said on Deb’s blog you couldn’t plan that if you tried for 3 years to end up the same weekend and beside each other! How crazy.
    If I had all the time in the world — I would read more and worry less. I would stop more and smell the roses and weed less (of course somewhere in there the weeds would have to disappear). I would walk more.

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    1. It was a wonderful accident, Bernie. I know you have read Deb and Donna’s version of our weekend together. The reservation system was also different than in past years. We were ready with our computers and information an hour before the reservation system opened up. Then we were placed in a random queue and we could not book anything for another 45 minutes. Therefore, end of May camping and not our first few choices for campsites (although, all campsites are great there). We usually camp September/October. I think Deb, Donna and Richard were able to reserve at this time because of cancellations due to travel restrictions. I love your thoughtful responses to if you had all the time in the world. I am very with you on read more and worry less. Ergo, our camping respite. I hope you are well and I look forward to reading your posts. 😀

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  36. This has been such a delight to read Erica. I read Donna’s some days ago and was struck at the synchronicity of you all being so close by to each other!
    What an extraordinary story of going off the grid for 9 months – a real gestation period of time, giving birth to a new appreciation of life in its naturalness. I look forward to checking out the link you provided of the music. I’m on my phone right now as we’re having load shedding or black outs – weak electricity grid, weak state owned enterprise. When it’s back I’ll check everything out. Meantime have a wonderful weekend 🦋xx

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    1. A great phrase and analogy, Susan “…a real gestation period of time, giving birth to a new appreciation of life in its naturalness” I LOVE this! The weak electricity grid is a challenge, especially when this is often the case. We choose to get off the grid at times. It is different when you are forced to get off the grid. The mini slideshow is a way for me to share more photos and the song from the film. The quality of the photos does not transfer well to YouTube. I believe it still conveys the sentiments and the feelings. I hope all is well with you and your loved ones. 💕

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  37. Love this! I would totally go off the grid and enjoy many of the same things you discuss. I love my phone and Instagram, but I’d give those things up for a year spent connecting with nature.

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    1. I do miss my cell/wifi and going down rabbit holes for the first day we are off the grid. Then I greatly appreciate how I disconnect and a calm, relaxing feeling of peace comes over me. I read a book for the fun of reading. I quietly hang out by the fire with my husband or we chat about odds and ends or deeper topics. Many hikes and of course, listening to the ocean. You lived in the Pacific Northwest, Mark, in a past life so you know all about this. When we get back home we are excited to get back on our gadgets and connect. Possibly, the best of both worlds. I look forward to reading your posts, Mark. You have been on quite the adventure the past while. I look forward to seeing your amazing photos on your blog and on Instagram🙂

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  38. First, so happy to see you posting to your blog again. I wondered what you’d been up to, where you’d gone!

    Your photos are beautiful. I’ve heard of this film and it sounds intriguing. I cannot imagine living off the grid, but if that’s your jam and you can make a compelling documentary about it I’m all for it. Thanks for the review.

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    1. What a sweet and kind comment, Ally.😀 My husband and I greatly appreciate going off the grid for many reasons. We do have a camper so the bears have at least one layer to claw at before they get to us. This documentary has had a lasting impact on me. The Yukon has always had a special place in my heart. This film may not be for everyone.

      It was a serendipitous treat to spend some relaxing time with Deb, Donna and Richard. Now that I am back on the grid I look forward to reading what you have been up to, Ally. Your posts always bring me a smile.😀

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  39. Meant to be!! Part of the bigger plan. Love little blessings like this. I am reading a book about a character vacationing in Tofino. Wasn’t sure where up north it is. Now I remember my father wanting to go into BC on an RV vacation shortly after his retirement. The RV broke down, though, and I don’t think he and my mom made it. Probably barely made it back to Memphis. He would have loved this post, the idea of all the time in the world. And the possibility of living in a log cabin without modern conveniences.

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    1. You describe this perfectly, Leslie ‘Meant to be & part of the bigger plan.’ I wholeheartedly agree with you. We had a lot of fun in a relaxing, unplanned way. I am wondering about this book you are reading with the location being around Tofino? We are right in this area when we camp on the West Coast. It is interesting how certain stories evoke memories of our parents. We are lucky we have access to a lot of nature, trails, forests and the ocean. Now that I am back on the grid I look forward to reading about your life. I always enjoy your Instagram posts, Leslie.🙂

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  40. Hi Erica – wonderful photos, images and notations to go with what was obviously a just delightful camp-out … I will definitely be back to view the video. You’ve described life as it should be … particularly for us at the moment – we can toddle on – those younger somewhat more difficult, or older and not in such good health. I count my blessings …
    I’m half-watching a mini (reduced) Trooping the Colour and am in awe and admiration of our Queen – who was only in Cornwall last night with the G7 leaders … and now is out on the parade ground at Windsor … I’m off for another coffee and eyes forwards to the tv!! Cheers Hilary

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    1. I wholeheartedly agree with you, Hilary, how it was a delightful camp out for many reasons. I just now Googled ‘mini – Trooping the Colour’ and learned more about the significance of this event. Awe and admiration of the Queen – I
      looked up – 95-years-old. I also count my blessings and I have to remind myself how the present moment is all I truly have. Thank you for chiming in, Hilary. I have Australian friends who use ‘chiming in’ and I hope this is in the right context.😀 Enjoy your coffee and watching the events in the comfort of your own home.❤️

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    1. Thank you for your kind comment, Sue. We try to get to the West Coast of the Island at least once a year. It was a wonderful coincidence to meet up with Deb, Donna and Richard. The tide was very far out to see some of the ocean life. We are happy to see the starfish making a comeback. 🙂

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  42. I love, love, love that group shot of you all on the beach, watching the sunset. Awesome and pure bliss! What a surprise to read a Dutch word at the end of your blog post: “Gezelligheid.” A tough one to translate in English. Coziness? Did Deb share that word with you?

    I still can’t believe what a coincidence it was that you and Chuck shared the campground with Donna, Richard, and Deb that weekend. That is just incredible. I’m so glad you all had a nice time.

    What I would do if I had all the time in the world? Pretty much what I’m doing now, except for work. 🙂 By the way, not only do I not possess a phone, I also don’t possess a watch or anything I carry around with a clock. Love it.

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    1. We had such a fun time, Liesbet, and we discussed how it was even more fun and relaxing since nothing was planned. I also love that group shot.😀 The back story on this is a couple and their friendly little dog were walking on the beach. Their dog continued to run over to us and greet each one of us individually. The gentleman asked us if we would like a photo together and we were thrilled. It all happened quickly and I suspect the reason for the natural smiles.

      Interesting about no watch and no phone. You have always been an inspiration, Liesbet! ❤️

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    2. Hi Liesbet, I just realized I had not responded to your Gezelligheid question. You are absolutely right about tough to translate in English. Deb and I were discussing this word the first night we were together. I told her that the German word ‘Gemutlichkeit’ is very similar to the Dutch word. Interesting how you would pick up on this.💕

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    1. We did have a wonderful time, Lynda. It is interesting how the Universe works its magic. The timing was unusual for us to go camping. Yet, it all turned out even better than expected. We definitely feel more relaxed, our spirits replenished. I look forward to getting together with the both of you and sharing stories. It has been far too long.❤️

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  44. Hey there – that is so cool how your sites were so close and then it made for a fun trip and awesome post! the slideshow was fun and smiled when Green Day came on – it fit so well and reminded me of my niece from years ago when she was into that band.

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    1. It turned out to be a special trip, Yvette, ‘something unpredictable and in the end its right…’ We are thankful to have the opportunity to camp and surround ourselves with the beauty of nature. Thank you for sharing about your niece. Interesting how memories are often evoked with music. ❤️

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  45. Erica, for those of us who are open in heart, the Universe is acting a whole lot differently. A New World is beginning and your story tells me you are a part of it. What fun to find out that your friends ended up exactly where you and your husband were. I spend as much time as I can out in Nature and when you mentioned this family living off grid, I could very well imagine myself doing the very say. If we tune into Mother Nature, our entire life would change. You got a good taste of that by the synchronistic events that unfolded. Awesome!! xo

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    1. I have had many ‘coincidences’ all my life and you likely, too, Amy. Possibly we pay attention and are aware. I love your phrase “open in heart.” I will mull on this. This family’s story has always stayed with me. We lived in the Yukon for a number of years and it has special meaning for us. Thank you for your thoughtful comment. 🌹

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      1. You are welcome, Erica!! I do have a post coming that expounds more on the “open in heart”. I knocked the ball out of the ball park so to speak, holding nothing back according to my “knowings”. I’ve had these knowings all of my life and I’m taking the full leap of saying what I “know”. And of course more of my pictures. Really really enjoyed your post. It thrills me that we on the whole are getting back to the art of living. xo

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          1. Hang on to your hat cuz this post is thought-provoking. I promise. Not all will understand but that’s OK. My flowers and other images will speak for themselves. Have a great evening!! xo

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  46. Beautiful pictures, Erica. Thanks for sharing them with us. It is interesting to think about what you would do if you had all the time in the world. The fact that our time is limited should make it even more precious. Let’s start doing those things that make life enjoyable, that make our hearts sing.

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    1. Thank you, Christie. It turned out to be a special camping trip on many levels. A real treat to meet up with Deb, Donna and Richard. You are absolutely right how limited time does make it more precious. I love your words “make our hearts sing.” ❤️

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  47. Oh wow! We should live every moment as if we had all the time in the world. You would make some great choices.
    That movie sounds wonderful. I’d love to watch it too. I can’t imagine living off the grid without electricity and running water.
    The blue bird is gorgeous. Is it a kingfisher? It has a beak similar to our kingfishers here.
    Your camping trip and blogging buddies look amazing fun.
    Enjoy!

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    1. I realize if I stay in the “Now” I do have all the time in the world. Someone I respect brought to my attention how “time is an illusion.” All up to interpretation and where we are in our lives. This movie stayed with me, Norah, for many reasons. I know you are an avid reader and the Dad was reading “Watership Down” out loud to the children. They all seemed immersed in this story. I read it this year and I wonder whether the content is appropriate for young children? Likely opens up discussion in a family.

      I think this bird is a Stellar’s Jay. We did have a great time. I hope all is well with you and loved ones, Norah. 💕

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      1. I couldn’t take to Watership Down so I can’t comment on the content and its suitability for children. I’m not much in to fantasy. I do have a picture book made from the movie but I don’t think I saw the movie either. Perhaps one of my children did. The song from it, possibly called Brown Eyes, was very sad.
        We are all doing well here, Erica. I hope you are too. 💖

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  48. Erika, my last comment I neglected to say your photographs are exquisite. My hat is off to you for I see in you a natural ability to capture Mother’s beauty and Divinity. Loved every image!! Thank you!! xo

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  49. Wasn’t it fantastic to join up and have some good conversation together after the year that was so disruptive. Beautiful video of the photos. I can imagine living off the grid and did when I was young, but as I get older I do not want to do it tough. It must be so revitalising for the mind in today’s society.

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    1. You are absolutely right, Amanda. Hanging out with other people and having conversations about everything and about nothing was a real treat. Thank you about your comment on the video. I found the quality of the photos did not transfer well to Youtube and my project file jumbled up the order. The feelings and sentiments are still there. You are right, Amanda. Living off the grid is challenging. Fun for awhile when it is our choice. I greatly appreciate your thoughtful comment. 💕

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