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The Best Family-Friendly Spring Break in BC

The Ashley RhapsodyLeave a comment

If you’re Googling “Spring Break in BC” and wondering if staying local is actually exciting enough… this is your sign.

British Columbia is wildly diverse. Within a few hours, you can go from rainforest beaches to desert landscapes to wine country to a storybook capital city. We’ve done the road trips (and flights). We’ve tested the hotels. We’ve eaten the food (enthusiastically).

Here are 5 of the best places to visit in BC for Spring Break with kids — and why they’re genuinely worth planning around.

1. Tofino, BC – For Beach Families + Outdoor Lovers

Why Tofino is perfect for Spring Break in BC:

Tofino gives you that “we went somewhere special” feeling without leaving the province. It’s rugged, it’s relaxed, and it’s built for families who love being outside.

We stayed at Pacific Sands Beach Resort (hello hot tub balcony overlooking the ocean) and Hotel Zed Tofino, which is colorful, quirky, and very kid-approved. Our family loved going to the beach weather it was pouring rain in muddy-buddies and boots, or in the sunshine in t-shirts!

Spring Break highlights in Tofino:

  • Massive sandy beaches (Chesterman Beach is a favourite)
  • Beginner-friendly surf lessons
  • Bonfires at sunset
  • Rainforest walks
  • Storm watching if the weather turns dramatic (which honestly just adds to the vibe)

Fun fact: Tofino is part of the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region — which basically means the ecosystem here is globally significant. You’re not just at a beach… you’re in one of the most protected coastal environments in the world.

If your family needs fresh air and space to run — this is it.

2. Penticton, BC – For Easy, Walkable Fun

If you’re planning Spring Break with kids in BC, Penticton is a low-stress win.

We stayed at The Balcomo, a Ramada by Wyndham, which felt boutique but still family-friendly (and had a great pool situation). Our rooms were perfect because kiddo had her own space which means bedtime isn’t at 8pm for the whole family! We had some great meals there as well; my husband went to Kin & Folk twice just for their fried rice.

What makes Penticton great:

  • The Penticton Farmers Market (one of the largest in BC)
  • Two lakes — Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake
  • LocoLanding Adventure Park for mini golf, go-karts, and peak kid energy release
  • Local treats like Cherry on Top (because balance)

Fun fact: Penticton is one of only two cities in the world located between two lakes. Which explains why the lake views feel endless.

It’s charming. It’s manageable. It’s great for families who want options without overcomplicating things.

3. Osoyoos, BC – Canada’s Only True Desert

Osoyoos feels like you crossed a border… but you didn’t.

We stayed at Spirit Ridge, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, which is set on Nk’Mip lands and blends desert views with resort comfort. It also provided so many educational (and fun) opportunities which as a homeschool family, we loved!

Here’s what makes Osoyoos incredible for Spring Break in BC:

  • It’s home to Canada’s only true desert ecosystem.
  • The Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre teaches you about endangered species, Indigenous history, and desert ecology in a way kids actually engage with.
  • The Bear, The Fish, The Root & The Berry — hands down one of our favourite meals of the year.
  • Spotted Lake looks like something from another planet when the mineral pools are visible.

Fun fact: Osoyoos is one of the warmest places in Canada, with over 2,000 hours of sunshine a year. If you’re craving warmth without booking a southern flight… this is your loophole.

4. Kelowna, BC – Food, Views + Space for Everyone

Kelowna is one of the most versatile Spring Break destinations in BC.

We stayed at The Royal Kelowna, which was ideal because we had a 3-bedroom apartment. When you’re traveling with kids, space matters. Full kitchen. Separate rooms. Everyone survives. I also could not BELIEVE the food scene in Kelowna; we literally didn’t have one bad meal! You can bring your car and do lots of exploring, or fly in and stay in the incredibly walkable city.

Why Kelowna works for families:

  • Incredible hiking trails with panoramic Okanagan views
  • Over 40 wineries in the region (parents, you’re welcome)
  • Waterfront parks and beaches
  • A growing food scene that’s actually worth planning around

Fun fact: Kelowna sits in one of Canada’s oldest wine-producing regions, with a microclimate that rivals parts of Napa. You can do outdoorsy mornings and elevated dinners in the same day.

It’s the sweet spot between active and indulgent.

5. Victoria, BC – History + Whale Watching + Afternoon Tea

If you want a Spring Break that feels polished but still fun for kids, Victoria delivers.

We stayed at Fairmont Empress — yes, that castle-looking one on the harbour — and did full afternoon tea because when in Victoria, you commit. I also took a solo adventure by bike around town and it was a great way to explore the city.

Top Spring Break activities in Victoria:

  • Exploring the Inner Harbour
  • Touring the Parliament Buildings
  • Whale watching with Prince of Whales Whale & Marine Wildlife Adventures
  • Afternoon tea at the Fairmont (which somehow feels fancy and kid-friendly at the same time)

Fun fact: Victoria is one of the mildest climates in Canada and is known as the “Garden City.” Early spring flowers start blooming here before most of the country thaws.

It feels international… without actually being international.

Why Staying in BC for Spring Break Just Makes Sense

When you plan Spring Break in British Columbia, you get:

  • Diverse landscapes (rainforest, desert, wine country, coastline)
  • Shorter travel days
  • No passport stress
  • Canadian pricing (which feels like a win right now)
  • And genuinely world-class experiences

You can absolutely travel internationally. No shade. But if you’re craving something easier, equally beautiful, and way less complicated?

BC delivers.

If you’re planning Spring Break in BC with kids, which one are you choosing — beach, desert, wine country, or city charm?

And be honest… are you exploring your own backyard this year, or heading further south?

I Test Drove Three Hyundais… and I’m Clearly a Palisade Person

The Ashley RhapsodyLeave a comment

I tried to be unbiased.

I really did.

But after test driving the
Hyundai Tucson HEV N-Line,
Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro, and
Hyundai Palisade HEV Calligraphy…

…it turns out I just really like a big SUV.

The Tucson: Great. Just Not For Me.

Let me start by saying — the Tucson is a good vehicle.

It’s sporty. It’s efficient. It’s easier to maneuver. If you live in the city, parallel park daily, and don’t pack like you’re preparing for a long winter, it makes a lot of sense.

But.

Once you step into a Palisade, it’s hard to go back.

The Tucson felt practical. The Palisade felt spacious.

And I apparently care deeply about space.

The Palisades: Same Family, Different Personalities

Both Palisades won me over immediately because of the size alone. There is something about having real third-row space, generous cargo room, and not feeling cramped that just changes the driving experience.

But the XRT Pro and the Calligraphy are very different vibes.

Palisade XRT Pro: The Capable One

The XRT Pro feels ready for something.

It has increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires, so it’s clearly built for more adventurous driving — gravel roads, camping trips, unpredictable Canadian weather.

It feels sturdy. Confident. Slightly rugged.

If your weekends regularly involve dirt roads or outdoor sports, this trim makes a lot of sense. It’s practical in a “let’s go somewhere” way.

Palisade HEV Calligraphy: The Fancy One (That I Loved)

Now let’s talk about the one I keep thinking about.

The Calligraphy.

First of all — the white interior.

It is beautiful. Like, noticeably beautiful. It makes the whole cabin feel bright and elevated. Sitting in it genuinely felt different.

Would it be the most practical choice with kids?
Probably not.

Would I still stare at it every time I got in the car?
Absolutely.

This trim also has some of the extra features that made me quietly obsessed:

  • The head-up display projected onto the windshield (so cool and surprisingly useful)
  • Cameras everywhere, which somehow make parking a large SUV feel easy
  • That panoramic curved display with dual screens that feels modern without being overwhelming

And because it’s the HEV, you’re getting hybrid efficiency paired with serious power — which feels like the responsible adult decision that still has personality.

So Which Would I Pick?

Between the Tucson and the Palisades?
Palisade. No hesitation.

Between the two Palisades?

That’s where it gets interesting.

If I were choosing purely with my practical brain, the XRT Pro makes a strong case. It’s durable, capable, and probably better suited for muddy shoes and real life.

But if I’m being honest?

The Calligraphy had my heart.

It felt spacious and refined. Functional and beautiful. And that white interior almost convinced me I’m the kind of person who doesn’t spill things.

Almost.

Experience the Thrill: Science World’s Extreme Sports Exhibit is Here!

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Push Your Limits at Science World’s New Extreme Sports Exhibit!

If you’re looking for a way to experience the rush of extreme sports—without the scraped knees or broken bones—then you need to check out Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits, the newest exhibit at Science World! Running from January 31 to May 19, 2025, this action-packed experience invites visitors to test their skills, challenge their balance, and dive into the science behind some of the world’s most thrilling sports.

What to Expect at Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits

Presented by White Spot Restaurants, this exhibit isn’t just about watching—it’s about doing! You’ll get the chance to:

  • Test your balance on a high-line simulation
  • Try a parkour course and see if you have the agility of a pro
  • Grip the hanging wall to test your strength
  • Immerse yourself in a 360° virtual reality experience that puts you in the seat of a mountain biker tackling intense terrain
  • Learn the science behind the rush, from the role of adrenaline and dopamine to the physical and mental endurance of extreme athletes

This exhibit is perfect for adventure seekers, sports lovers, and anyone curious about what it takes to push human limits. Plus, it’s interactive, making it an exciting stop for families, friends, and solo explorers alike!

Why Science World is a Must-Visit Year-Round

While Extreme Sports is only here for a limited time, Science World offers endless opportunities for discovery all year long. This iconic Vancouver destination is packed with hands-on exhibits that make learning fun for all ages. From exploring the wonders of physics and chemistry to understanding the complexities of the human body, there’s always something new to experience.

  • The Eureka! Gallery lets kids and adults alike play with water, light, and motion in a hands-on environment.
  • BodyWorks takes you inside the human body to discover how we function and what keeps us healthy.
  • The Tinkering Space inspires creativity and problem-solving through engineering and design challenges.

And when you need a break, there’s even a Triple O’s inside for a delicious meal or snack—because science is best experienced on a full stomach!

Make the Most of Science World with a Membership

If you’re local to Vancouver, a Science World membership is one of the best investments you can make. With unlimited visits, exclusive member-only events, and discounts on guest tickets, OMNIMAX films, and at the gift shop, it’s the perfect way to keep the fun going all year. Whether you want to pop in for an afternoon or spend an entire day exploring, a membership lets you experience new exhibits and returning favorites as often as you’d like!

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re visiting Vancouver or lucky enough to live here, Science World is a must-see destination. Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits is only here until May 19, 2025, so don’t miss your chance to experience the thrill! Grab your tickets, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for an unforgettable day of learning and fun.

For more details and to plan your visit, head to scienceworld.ca!

Toddler Meltdowns in Public: How to Handle Them Like a Pro

The Ashley Rhapsody1 Comment

Hey moms, let’s be real: there’s nothing quite like the embarrassment of your toddler having a full-on meltdown in the middle of the grocery store. It’s like your little angel has been possessed by a tiny demon, and everyone within a ten-mile radius is staring at you with judgment in their eyes.

But fear not, my fellow mamas! I’m here to help you navigate this minefield of toddler tantrums like a pro. Here are my top tips for handling meltdowns in public:

  1. Stay Calm (Even When You Want to Scream)

Your child is feeding off your energy, so the last thing you want to do is escalate the situation by losing your cool. Take a deep breath, count to ten, and remind yourself that this too shall pass.

  1. Get Down to Their Level

Toddlers are tiny humans with big emotions, and they often feel powerless in a world that doesn’t make sense to them. By getting down to their level and validating their feelings, you can help diffuse the situation.

  1. Offer Choices

Toddlers love to feel like they’re in control, so offering them choices can be a game-changer. Instead of saying “stop crying,” try saying “would you like to walk or be carried?” or “do you want to hold my hand or the cart?”

  1. Distract and Redirect

Sometimes, the best way to handle a meltdown is to distract and redirect your child’s attention. Point out something interesting in the store or start singing a silly song to get their mind off their distress.

  1. Know When to Cut Your Losses

There are times when you just need to throw in the towel and call it a day. If your child is inconsolable, take a deep breath and leave the store. Sometimes a change of scenery is all it takes to calm them down.

Remember, mama: you’re not alone in this. Toddler meltdowns are a rite of passage for all parents, and no one is judging you as harshly as you’re judging yourself. So take a deep breath, put on your big girl pants, and handle that tantrum like the badass mama you are!

I hope you find this helpful! Let me know if you need any revisions or if you have any other topics in mind.

Indoor (Free/Cheap) Play for Rainy Vancouver Days

The Ashley RhapsodyLeave a comment

It can be a lot of fun to throw on the muddy buddy and go play in the rain, but let’s also be real, I have yet to find an adult muddy buddy and standing out in the rain supervising gets old fast.⁣ SO I’m constantly compiling lists of fun indoor activities for those days I really don’t want fresh air.

☔️ Morgan Play Centre (Surrey, BC) : Between $5.99-$13.99

Morgan Play Centre is a great option for anyone in the South Surrey area. Lots of spaces for all ages, giant slides, and it’s located directly next to a Starbucks. Check it out here.

☔️ Toys R Us at the Willowbrook Mall (Langley, BC) : Free (for those with self-control)

Did you know that Toys R Us has little play stations all through the store? And PRO TIP: have your child go around and take pictures of things they want for their birthday/Christmas etc. and then you won’t be spending the whole trip fielding shopping requests. The Willowbrook Mall is also a pretty fun space (and they will be opening a new open-air section soon). ⁣Check them out here.

☔️ Public Libraries (All over YVR): Free

The library isn’t 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 the library anymore. Play structures, puzzles, story times and more. Check the Surrey Libraries website for times and events like story time and more.

⁣☔️ Oh My Land Club (Coquitlam, BC): $15-$20

This one is the most expensive on the list but most definitely worth every penny! Seriously! This place is a WONDERLAND! Do you ever walk into a place and think, “Wow! This was designed by a single white man without kids!” Well, this place is the complete opposite. I went with a friend of mine and her kiddos and every time we turned a corner we kept proclaiming, “They thought of EVERYTHING.” Water tables complete with long sleeve water-proof aprons, sensory bin rooms, sing-a-longs for the little ones, ball pit, rock climbing, baby space complete with nursing area, hand-washing stations… I’m telling you… worth every penny (for drop-in- their yearly passes are a bit nuts). For more info check them out here.

☔️ Tsawwassen Mills Mall (Tsawwassen, BC): Free (for those with self-control)

This is a great mall during the week because it’s pretty quiet and it’s a great big circle (so you can run that toddler until nap time). They also have a play structure in the middle to climb on, Mastermind Toys to visit (I set a timer for Suubs in the toys store 😜), an aquarium full of fish at the Outdoor World, and of course Stuff Riders! The Stuff Riders are $8.50-$12.50 for your first 10 minutes and then you get charged per minute, but it’s definitely a fun treat now and again.⁣ Check them out here.

☔️ Surrey Recreation Stay & Play (Surrey, BC): $3.75

This has been the greatest discovery thanks to a Dance Momma friend of mine. Stay and Play is only $3.75 and your kiddo gets a good two hours of gym time to run, bike, climb and PLAY. Parent supervision is required, check the Surrey Recreation website for times and locations.⁣ If you’re not in Surrey, be sure to check out the programs at the local recreation centres… because they’re awesome, and pretty cheap.

☔️ IKEA (Coquitlam & Richmond): Free (for those with self-control)

I mean, inexpensive food (kids meals range from $3.49-$4.99), toys to play with, and lots of space to walk and play. Always a win 🥇 ⁣

☔️ Museum of Surrey (Surrey, BC): FREE

We all know about my love for this place! It’s absolutely free and they constantly have special events happening, a great big indoor playground, nursing stations, and of course the museum! ⁣Click here for more details.

Do you have a favourite rainy day hangout? Let me know in the comments and follow for more fun around YVR 🎉⁣

Top 5 Fall Family Activities (that aren’t scary & won’t break the bank) around YVR

The Ashley RhapsodyLeave a comment

I love all that Fall has to offer and I also love the cutesy side of Halloween. I also love not spending all of my money trying to show my kid a good time, can I get an amen?  If you are looking for fun (not scary and not super costly) activities for your family this October, I have got you covered. 

Loft Country Farms

We visited Loft Country Farms for the first time this year and it was SO much fun! Honestly, I didn’t expect there would be so much to do and see, but we probably could have spent the whole day there. Pony rides, panning for gems, petting zoo, gourmet hot dogs and desserts, a western shootout, wagon rides, tractor rides, and of course the pumpkin patch. As a mom with a potty training 3 year old, I also really appreciated the cleanliness of their washrooms (let’s be real: this is something I appreciate with or without a kid lol). 

Online Pricing:
General Admission (Ages 3 and up) – $13.50 
Family Admission (2 parents and their children) – $54

They also have season passes available. 

Location: 2640 248 St, Langley, BC V4W 2R2

Laity Pumpkin Patch

It’s been a couple years since we have visited Laity Pumpkin Patch so we’re really excited to check it out again this year. 

Public Admission Rates

Weekend/Holiday Rate: $12.00 each (ages 3 and up) – incl. GST & ticket fees

Weekday Rate: $9.00 each (ages 3 and up) – incl. GST
(please note: Mon, Oct 10th and Fri, Oct 21st are holiday rates)

Ages 2 and under – Free (with paying adult)

South location: 12725 Laity St, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2P2

North location: 21145 128 Ave, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2R9

Art Knapps Surrey:

This one was a cute little surprise! You can buy pumpkins, visit their candy story, ride their train, and even partake in some mini-golf! The train rides are only $3.50 a person, and run every half-hour. They do have some “scary-ish” decorations (my kiddo was not into the giant sparkly purple spider… but it was all pretty tame). 

Location: 4391 King George Blvd, Surrey, BC V3Z 1G6

Circus Osorio

Okay this is not fall specific, but a super fun outing around town this October. Tickets are $25 for adults, and each adult ticket comes with 2 free kids tickets (under 10). October 13, 2022 – October 17, 2022

Location: Coquitlam B.C. Coquitlam Centre – 2929 Barnet Highway, Coquitlam BC V3B 5R5

Arts Nursery Scarecrow Stroll: 

This is such a great FREE activity to enjoy with the kiddos (I mean, “Free” if you don’t buy yourself a ton of houseplants and pumpkins). 60+ Scarecrows to see, a pumpkin patch, and of course so many beautiful plants. We went during the week and there was an Ice Cream truck on site, but word on the street is the weekend has live music and food trucks. Open from 9:00am-6:00pm Mon-Sat, and 9am-5pm Sundays from Sep 24-Oct 31

Location: 8940 192nd Street, Surrey, BC, Canada, V4N 3W8

If you want to stay up to date on fun family activities around Greater Vancouver Area make sure to follow me on Instagram & TikTok @theashleyrhapsody

Tips for Traveling with a Toddler

The Ashley RhapsodyLeave a comment

I have read every mom-blog that exists about toddler travel, and lived vicariously through others while I awaited our time to finally travel with the kid.

This past week we finally got a chance to travel (for work, but also with the whole family, so I’ll take it). I’m glad we got a little travel-taster with a short domestic flight before we do a big international trip.

Here’s what helped with the kid :

✨ Car seat bag: I bought a car seat bag on Amazon that has handles on it and backpack straps. It was tremendously helpful and helped to keep our car seat clean. My friend also put a little backpack filled with diapers inside her car seat to make extra space on her carry-on and I marveled at the brilliance. I’ll for sure do that next time.

✨ Snacks and Containers: I went to the dollar store and got some wonderful snack containers. I didn’t do all my shopping in the container section though; our dollar store has a crafting section and they had some wonderful little divided containers. We packed berries and other fruit in the divided containers, and dry snacks in the stackable ones. Next time though, I will only put dry fruit in the divided containers; I put pineapple in one and it got leaky. Which leads me to my favorite travel item for every family member.

✨Glad Press’N Seal: I’m telling you this is one of my favorite travel hacks that I’ve used for years. I’ve never had to clean up shampoo messes because of it! Use Glad Press’N Seal to cover the lids of any container that could leak. When you arrive, remove it and save it for the trip home; it’s far sturdier and reusable than Saran Wrap.

✨Umbrella Stroller: No big sell here. We almost didn’t bring it because we didn’t know how helpful it would be. It was helpful even though we were pretty close to everything. Toddlers are tricky creatures who sometimes need to be confined. That’s all on that.

✨ iPad: Wow, ground breaking stuff Ashley! Kids like technology?! Shhhh don’t give away all your secrets. But seriously, I downloaded girlfriends favorite shows from Netflix and Disney + and it saved the day several times. I brought colouring and toys, but sometimes you face problems only Peppa Pig and Bluey can fix. I also love the case we have; it stands up on its own, has handles, and packs easily.

✨ Play Pen: listen, I know this one won’t be a necessity for everyone. However, in 2020 we stayed at a hotel where the kid got lice from sleeping in the hotel’s crib. After that our own playpen became a necessity. Another option is bring garbage bags to wrap the crib mattress in and bring your own bedding. Trust no one.

✨ Colouring: I love the Melissa & Doug Water Wow sets because I don’t need to bring a ton of markers or colouring books. Once the sheets dry, they’re ready to use again.

Here’s my Amazon list of some of the go-to products I mentioned and more: https://www.amazon.ca/shop/theashleyrhapsody/list/2YHVIA7P051KW?ref=cm_sw_em_r_inf_list_own_theashleyrhapsody_mw_OUPSuo81FrTSo

When it came to the actual flight, girlfriend did pretty well, however her ears were really bothering her during take-off and landing. I brought lollipops for her but messed up the timing, so by the time we were actually taking off or landing it was done. Any tips for plugged and popping kiddo ears?

Hope this was helpful amidst all the other many blogs about traveling kiddos. I know because I’ve read them. All of them.

March: Gentle Cleaning Rules for the Month

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I know, I know, I need to conclude my February Vegan month still! If you follow me on social media, you will have seen my husband and I recently announced we are expecting a little Halfrican™ bundle in August. I wanted to wait on talking about being Vegan because I REALLY wanted to address what it’s been like being Vegan for the month AND being pregnant (spoiler alert: it’s been a real treat). It made it hard to talk about vegan pregnancy before actually announcing that I’m pregnant. So look forward to that coming soon. IMG_9122

Meanwhile, it’s March which means new month, new project! 

This month I am going to venture into Gentle Cleaning. I am going to overhaul our house and see what I can do to get as many cleaning chemicals out as possible. I am also going to clean like I’ve never cleaned before… which I am beyond excited about. I can highly identify with Monica on “Friends”… except the episode where she has a secret closet where she keeps all her mess, I can not handle that business. And before you say “Oh, you must be nesting,” I am not. My love for cleaning and organizing is just me on a normal day. Same thing with my love for naps and snacking… completely unrelated to pregnancy, it’s just how I roll. 

All throughout my high school days, I worked at a wonderful fish market to which I credit for teaching me how to clean. There I learned how to sweep effectively, how to clean sharpie off of a counter top, how to wash dishes by hand and, most importantly, bleach everything! I became accustomed to associating the sensation of something being “clean” with the smell of bleach, and have carried this into adulthood. However, my house is not a fish market, and does not require the same amount of disinfecting. So this month, I shall teach myself new ways! 

Here are my Gentle Cleaning goals for the month: 

  1. Replace household cleaning chemicals with natural solutions
  2. Experiment with different DIY cleaners
  3. Clean, Organize, Purge! 
  4. Continue to reduce household waste
  5. Continue to explore new Vegan recipes

As I have for the past two months, I’d love any tips and resources from those who are wiser than I. Let me have it; what do I need to know about chemical free cleaning? 

Gentle Eating: Mid-Month Update

The Ashley Rhapsody1 Comment

My Vegan month has been eventful thus far. 

I must confess, I’ve slipped up a few times. 

I went to A&W for a Beyond Meat burger and was very conscientious about stating boldly “NO CHEESE” at the drive-thru window. Then, about half way through eating the burger, I realized it was riddled with mayo. Oops. 

Last week, in a famished blur, I saw one of my students with a giant bag of Flaming Hot Cheetos. Before I could even think about Vegan anything I found myself making intense eye contact with said student and muttering, “What’s good?” as I reached out my cupped hands for Cheetos.  

In the same way I discovered mindfulness during my January of “Gentle Waste,” I’ve been realizing how much more mindful I need to be to find success living a Vegan lifestyle. No hazy brained adventures to the drive-thru in the morning, every restaurant visit requires very diligent reading of menus beforehand, and cooking at home requires a great deal more creativity and thought. 49864750_340699400105138_4016678476353372160_n

But with that said, when I put thought into my meals, I don’t feel that I am making huge sacrifices with my eating. One of the first things people said to me when they found out I was going to eat Vegan for the month was, “Sooo, you’re going to eat lettuce?” At that time I would ignorantly respond, “Yeah, I guess so,” however now I know that’s not always the case. Vegans are a creative lot and whether it be “burgers” or “cream” sauces, or “cheese,” I have been able to find delicious replacements for most things. I would choke a salmon with my bare hands for some sushi right now though. I do not have the patience or the time to be rolling my own sushi rolls. That’s another kind of extra that I’m just not. 

Stay tuned to my Instagram account as later this month I will have special Instagram live interviews with some talented Vegans.

For those interested, here are some great recipes and references I have discovered so far.

I found this TED Talk from Erin Ireland fascinating. Vegan or dedicated carnivore will find this a useful watch.

Plant Based News has been an interesting resource:

https://www.plantbasednews.org/?fbclid=IwAR0aP4eRC2fRx1cfDqh3dVqbiRir2GUt93ODlhju49zXFPQAXvDGZ8FEe8k

16549307059_ba959fc04a_z

https://olivesfordinner.com/2015/03/carrot-lox.html

Our “Before” baking our Cinnamon Buns
Erin Irelands “After” Cinnamon Buns (ours turned out delicious, but not this pretty

http://itstodiefor.ca/the-best-soft-and-gooey-cinnamon-buns-by-indian-rock-vegans/

Erin Ireland’s version of the Virtuous Pie “Stranger Wings” Pizza (This is one of my absolute favourites): http://itstodiefor.ca/buffalo-cauliflower-wing-pizza/

One of my favourite websites for Vegan recipes is: https://ohsheglows.com

Here’s a link to my “VEGAN” board on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ca/theashleyrhapsody/vegan/

 

 

January: Rules for the Month

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Eco Footprint: I am currently using 20.3 Hectares of land (Average Canadian: 9 Hectares), 2.3 Earths, and my “Overshoot day” is June 10th 

All I Want for Christmas is EVERYTHING

The Christmas season is always a great reminder for me of all the crap I think I need. I am all of a sudden acutely aware of every kitchen gadget that will elevate my cooking, every item of clothing that will make me feel like a Pinterest feature, and of course the new watch that will track my steps, heart rate, and emotions guaranteeing I will be a more balanced, and aware human. 

The truth is I do not really need anything. I can cook just fine with what I have, I have enough clothes to be fully dressed for work each day, and that watch that counts my steps is only going to turn me into a neurotic basket case, marching in my living room at 10:36pm because I haven’t hit my 10,000 step goal for the day. 

Waste Not, Want Not

I have created a bit of a tradition for myself every time I come home from a trip to Uganda. I arrive home with my luggage covered in fresh red dirt, and my head whirling with thoughts about how us “Westerners” live. Before my shoes are even off I am scanning my house looking to give away anything I haven’t used in the past 6 months. 

“Why do I have so many shoes? No human needs this many throw pillows. Am I planning on conducting a seance? Why do I need all these candles?” I mumble to myself as I ferociously toss all the things I don’t need. 

And here in lies the strange tension I hold between Christmas and my most recent trips to Uganda. How do strike a balance? How do I become a conscious consumer in every season of my life? How do I de-clutter but also not waste that which I already have? 

Rules for the Month of “Gentle Waste” January

In the past being “waste free” looked like a giant purge of my home inventory. I was living “simply” if my counters were clean, and my Tupper-ware cupboard wasn’t overflowing. However once I took the Eco footprint quizzes (Eco Foot Print Quiz 1 and Quiz 2 ) a whole new world of (rather simple) changes opened up to me. I was forced to think about the way I consume and waste not just at home, but also when I’m out and about. 

Here are my goals for January: 

  1. Shopping: Reusable bags for groceries and produce, cut down food that has packaging (by at least half). Look into reusable snack bags, and wraps. This is really just a matter of REMEMBERING my bags. I have all the reusable bags I could ever need, but I am constantly forgetting them in my house or in the car. I suppose it’s also a matter of laziness… walk ALL THE WAY back to the car for a bag? Meh, just once will be okay. 
  2. Cook the correct amount & eat leftovers. We are usually pretty good at this, but we could surely get better. Our biggest problem is when we intentionally make big batches of something and then not freezing it in time. 
  3. Coffee Talk: Make coffee at home. If I am stuck, I am only allowed to purchase a coffee if I have my own reusable cup. Same goes for water. My S’well Bottle has definitely helped with my water consumption and cutting down my use of plastic water bottles, but I have yet to hit my stride with coffee. Having the rule that I cannot have coffee without the cup should definitely keep me thinking about it. 
  4. Recycle with more accuracy and Compost ALL food waste. This feels really shameful to admit, but I have been guilty of throwing out entire containers of food if the food is too moldy or gross to deal with. Especially if it’s just those cheap zip-loc containers. I also get really lazy about composting and recycling. I have no idea what all the different recycle numbers mean, and I am sure I recycle the wrong things to the wrong places. 
  5. Water Usage: 3 minute showers- use a timer/ Reduce flushes/ Cut down dishwasher use. This one kind of devastates me. Not only do I love long, hot showers, I also love putting on full blown concerts whilst in the shower. I’m going to need to find somewhere else to perform the entire score of “Wicked.” 
  6. Watch “A Plastic Ocean,”  and “Before the Flood.” I want to educate myself. I hope the more I know, the more I will care. 
  7. Visit the Surrey Bio-Fuel Plant. Surrey’s Bio-Fuel Plant is one of only a few of its’ kind in all of Canada. An understanding of where my compost goes, and how it’s used will hopefully help my buy in. 

There it is, month one! Any great resources you think I need to be aware of? Any giant blind spots in my plan? I’d love to hear from you. Comment below, and follow along on social media @theashleyrhapsody