𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰: 𝗔 𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲

The Christmas season brings wonderful experiences and is always in our hearts. The past two years of Christmas in Canada were memorable as they gave the season a different meaning and perspective.

We're not having a white Christmas in Metro Vancouver for this year since we didn't have a snowfall except in the Mountain resorts of North Vancouver. We had a great time in Mt. Seymour on my first Christmas here in Canada, so this time, we traveled a bit farther to experience a white Christmas in 

a mountain resort and village. This time we spent a holiday in Whistler!

I've always been fascinated and dreaming about celebrating a white Christmas, so we'll be experiencing the village of Whistler as it turns into a wonderful Christmas winter wonderland.

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In addition to Vancouver, Whistler hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics, so we spent time in the Olympic Village and took photos with the Olympic logo. Just behind the Olympic logo is an ice skating rink where everyone has fun.

Whistler is a world-renowned destination for snow adventures and is known as the top ski destination in North America and the world. We had to experience the fun, so we took a gondola ride to reach the first jump-off station, where we enjoyed watching the ski adventure. Skiing is fun to watch. I wish to take a lesson next time to join the ski adventure.

One of the most unforgettable experiences was joining a medicine trail snowshoe adventure on Christmas day. It was a great way to recharge and reconnect with nature as we traveled to old-growth forests with our tour guide, Melanie, a French Canadian Botanist. Mel is knowledgeable and passionate about the Whistler wilderness. I connected with her as she shared about forest bathing and its benefits. I told her I had blogged about 'forest bathing,' shinrin Roku in Japanese. It was a unique experience, feeling the snow crunch under my snowshoes and the crisp air filling my lungs. I was indeed 'bathing in the forest.'

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"This is my first real forest bathing, as we truly bathe in the forest," I told her.

The snowshoe adventure starts with a 20-minute bus ride to Callaghan Valley, where Mel was our driver and guide. We share the bus trip with other adventurers who are into snowmobiling and dog sledding, and they have their guides.

It was about an hour and a half of snowshoeing in the wilderness, with several stops for Mel to share fantastic real-life stories about the trees and plants. Just before we got close to our starting point, Mel shared that the totem pole is believed to be a portal, and we have to set out a wish before we pass through it.

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Mel emphasized that the power of manifestation lies in genuinely believing it will happen. She always reminds us of our intentions so we get the best results.

As we ended the snowshoe adventure, Mel offered tea to warm up before we got back to the bus for another trip back to the town center.  That was an enjoyable experience, and I learned some information from Mel about the temperate rainforest that we live in.

The Whistler village is alive, and the shimmering Christmas lights on the trees add a magical experience as we pass through the cobblestone streets. The local shops and restaurants were all decked out for the holidays, and we even learned some of the local Christmas traditions, like the lighting of the village Christmas tree and the carolers singing in the streets.

As we return to our cozy Airbnb room, we always make it a point to have a cup of cafe mocha and hot chocolate. This ritual of sharing travel stories and discussing our future goals over warm beverages is a source of joy and inspiration. Our travel experiences inspire us and help us visualize our future goals and dreams.

On the third day of our stay, we were greeted with a fresh snowfall early in the morning. We anticipated that, and we're glad it happened before returning home. Before breakfast, we spent an hour walking around the Olympic Park, where everyone enjoyed the fresh snowfall. Families with little kids played in the snow, building snowmen, and others played ice skating. It was fun to see happy faces full of excitement and joy.

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Our holidays in Whistler were truly magical. The vibrant town transformed into a Christmas village in wintertime, and it was a sight to behold. The energy and festive spirit were infectious. We left with a desire to return in another season, eager for a different experience and a higher level of adventure. 

We'll always have a Merry Christmas, and the joyous holiday season brings warmth and joy for an extraordinary Whistler experience that's truly a Christmas in our hearts. 

©️ 2024 Del Cusay

𝗕𝗶𝗿𝘁𝗵𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹: 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲'𝘀 𝗘𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗱𝗲

𝙄𝙩'𝙨 𝙨𝙪𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝘾𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙙𝙖. 𝙄𝙩'𝙨 𝙖 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙘𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙗𝙞𝙧𝙩𝙝𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙤𝙣 𝙖 𝙧𝙤𝙖𝙙 𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙥 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚, 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙩, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙪𝙡𝙜𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙤𝙡𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙫𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙙. 

I just celebrating my birthday. It's this time when I feel grateful for another year added to life. The time when I take a pause and introspect about what my life has been and what kind of life lies ahead.

Since it's a long weekend, we planned to have a getaway and discover a provincial park about a two-and-a-half-hour travel from home. It's a 3-day fun in the sun for healing and rejuvenation. 

We stayed at Coldspring Campground in Manning Park. It's a peaceful campsite that's near the river just a few steps from where we set up our tent and camping essentials.

Manning Park covers a little more than 83 thousand hectares with 5 Campgrounds and more than 400 campsites.  It's one of the most popular all-season destinations in British Columbia, Canada.

We visited some of the wonderful tourist spots like the Cascade Lookout, with a higher elevation offering 360-degree views of the Cascade Mountains between Canada and the US border.

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The mountain views are breathtaking, with evergreen trees in its surroundings. You can see eagles soaring high, squirrels hopping, and birds chirping. It's worth the time on the summit and have fun in the sun.

The exhilarating 15-minute journey to reach the summit was awesome. That's why I always love the peak since it feels like being victorious. In there, we feel good and we develop a higher vision of what more we can accomplish in life.

Our Soulful Sunday moment was spent in Lightning Park near Manning Park Resort. It's a go-to spot for families to enjoy the vibrant ambiance and the gleaming waters of the lake.

Favorite water activities in summer include kayaking, stand-up paddling, fishing, and swimming. Adjacent is the Skyview and Lightning Lake campground which is a 5-minute drive away from where we stay in Coldspring Campground. 

We set up a beach shade canopy and chairs and spent some time facing the lake while overseeing different water activities that people enjoy. 

The summer heat was intense and it was a good way to get a refreshing breeze off the lake while breathing out all worries and aches and getting revitalized.

Back at our campsite, we enjoy grilling fish and sweet corn for dinner. This is something not to miss while camping. 

To warm up on a cool evening, it feels good to be around a bonfire, watching the firewood get burned until the fire is out. We had some s'mores while sharing light stories. 

Just before we ended the night and headed on to our sleeping tent, we had a great time stargazing and being awed by other celestial bodies. It's my first time here to see a flashing meteor timely for a birthday wish. 

That was a memorable birthday celebration. I enjoyed being outdoors and in nature. I love the camping vibe and had the fun moments for making summer memories.

Life is good and we always enjoy it and celebrate it. We gaze for the stars, dream it, and live it.

©️ 2024 Del Cusay

𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰: 𝗢𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿

𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠, 𝙬𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩'𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙛𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙢𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙧𝙚𝙨. 𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙬𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙥𝙥𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚, 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙬𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨; 𝙬𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙬𝙞𝙣 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙛𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩.

As I celebrate the Lunar New Year of 2024, I have the desire to be fearless and feisty. I have to leave the energy of living in fear to unblock energies leading to success and prosperity.

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This year's Lunar New Year is special as we celebrate the 50th Annual Lunar New Year Parade in Vancouver. Thousands of spectators participated and attended this colorful and festive event.

In Vancouver Chinatown, I can see and feel the cultural inclusion and integration. The event is celebrated by people coming from different cultures and diverse backgrounds. Everyone seems thrilled and excited whether it's their first Lunar New Year experience or a regular event spectator, everyone feels welcomed and blessed by a Deity or Supreme being.

It's the enthusiasm to feel connected to a culture that is unique and beautiful. It's the eagerness to learn and understand about a culture that's so strong and vibrant. 

This year we welcome and celebrate the Wood Dragon. It's considered the luckiest of all the Chinese Animal signs. It brings the highest luck and prosperity in Chinese beliefs. This resonates with me as I believe in the power of a positive mindset to attract positive manifestations.

I've celebrated Lunar New Year through the years and I can attest to the power of manifestations to start the year right. 

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2013: A New Beginning

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2017: An Auspicious Celebration

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2018: Prosperity and Abundance

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2019: Luck, Prosperity, and Faith

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2020: Love, Peace, and Harmony 

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2022: Desire and Destiny 
• 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯: 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲

I've learned to integrate cultural beliefs that are not unknown to me. It gave me a sense of happiness to accept something new and believe in myself when they inspire positivity for those who believe.

My desire for this year is about the most valuable thing; to have the willpower to achieve my greatest desires and destiny. I believe that luck and prosperity happen when I fight what's unwanted and unleash the fire within to bring out the best in me.

©️ 2024 Del Cusay

𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲

𝙄𝙩'𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣 𝘾𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙙𝙖 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧 2023 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙨𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨. 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙚 𝙬𝙚𝙡𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙉𝙚𝙬 𝙔𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙜𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙖 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙤𝙥𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙮.

The westernmost province of Canada, British Columbia is truly fascinating and I've seen some of its most breathtaking places worth visiting. I enjoyed the journey to places and being inspired by nature and the people. 

The year 2023 wasn't all about travel. It's been a roller coaster of events and a swing of emotions. Things happen swiftly and suddenly. We had joy on cloud nine, but also had seasons in the sun.

Chinese New Year in Vancouver 

We had a simple New Year's Eve celebration in Vancouver. A countdown and some selfies on our hotel room's balcony overlooking the Vancouver skyline. That was a cheerful way of welcoming the New Year with the greatest hopes and aspirations.

We also welcomed the Chinese New Year in Vancouver Chinatown in late January 2023. It was a surprise to have met Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau waving and greeting people on a parade.

I've been celebrating the Chinese New Year for years and it never fails to give me and my family some luck and prosperity. In 2023, I feel abundance coming in and it ignites optimism for greater hopes.

A Spirited Spring

I love Spring. It's the most loved season when everyone seems smiling and happy being outdoors after a long winter.

We traveled about two hours from home to spend our first Spring holiday in Harrison Hot Springs in the Fraser Valley. It's a healing place and highly revered by the local indigenous people. I felt the healing power of nature on its hot springs and probably the famous "Sasquatch" urban legend which is a spiritual creature that made several sightings documented.

Spring isn't complete without experiencing the Cherry Blossom Festival. This year, we celebrated it in Garry Point Park in Richmond and walked on a canopy of cherry trees. 

It's nice to see couples, children, and families enjoying the colors and smell of the Cherry blossoms. It's one of the most beautiful gifts the Asian people gave to North America. And in Garry Point Park hundreds of Cherry trees blossom magically.

There are more in Spring other than the Cherry blossoms. On May 22, 2023, in celebration of Victoria Day, I had my first Rodeo experience at the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair.

The best and award-winning Cowboys and cowgirls in North America showcased their Rodeo skills to the thousands of spectators from British Columbia and places in North America. 

The Rodeo event teaches us about the livelihood and lifestyle of the great Cowboys and Ranchers. What we see in the game is what happens in the real world of Cattle and any livestock industry. Rodeo is not only fun, but it teaches us about patience, endurance, and perseverance.

When the Summer Comes

Summer is full of fun under the sun. It's a great time for outdoor activities anywhere. The first event we attended was the Pinoy Festival in Burnaby at the beginning of summer on June 25, 2023. 

Pinoy Festival was the first ever and the biggest Filipino cultural event in British Columbia and we had the opportunity to meet and greet fellow Filipinos and watch their cultural performances.

That was also memorable to meet and hear the message of British Columbia Premier, David Eby who recognized the Filipino communities' great contribution to the Province and the country. 

Summer is best enjoyed when we travel a little bit far from home. On July 2, 2023, we had an hour's drive to Chilliwack to visit Minter Country Garden. It's where we found the largest selection and display of trees, flowers, and ornamental plants. We had lunch in their café and bought the finest tea in their shop.

The garden has a relaxing ambiance and it's worth the visit. I hope to come back in the future to buy some plants and bring a piece of nature at home.

In the middle of Summer, on August 6, 2023, we discovered a lake in Coquitlam after we failed to secure a parking spot on the beach that we wished to visit. After almost 2 hours of searching for an alternative spot, we had finally settled and had a pleasant picnic day on Como Lake. 

The place was surprisingly cooler than the rest of the metro and the early fall foliage was evident. I like the healthy lifestyle of the residents where they do fitness walks, fishing, and outdoor games.  

The best of Summer happened on my birthday when we had a trip to Bowen Island which is a 20-minute ferry ride from Vancouver. It's a romantic Island getaway that anyone can enjoy even on a day trip. 

We had a great time on a rocky shore in a marina just below the mountain and overlooking an Islet where small boats, jet skis, and ferries pass through.

It's a great feeling to unwind once in a while and our Bowen Island trip was one of the most memorable birthday celebrations I had. It's the best moment of contemplation and a heartfelt expression of gratitude for another year. 

Fall in Love

The colors of the fall season are truly magical. It gives a lovely vibe when you see the plants and trees change their colors and fall to the ground. 

At the beginning of the fall on September 30, 2023, we traveled to Lynn Canyon Park in North Vancouver to simply have some time in nature. 

The sound of the waterfalls was soothing to the senses as we crossed a suspension bridge leading to the trails. That was the clearest water I've seen up close on the stream. Several teens enjoy jumping off the cliff and splashing in an emerald pool of water. We simply enjoy the moment to take a deep breath and appreciate the breeze of nature.

A Sparkling Winter

British Columbia is known for its mild winter. But this year's season is warmer and we're not having snowfall in the metro for the holidays and before the year ends. 

Although we're not having a mountain resort adventure this holiday, we have enjoyed the sparkling lights of Christmas in the city. 

Our Christmas shopping in Richmond was special as we took a picture with a massive Christmas tree while hearing a festive melody. 

Our trip to the Vancouver Christmas Market was a wonderful experience. It feels like a real Christmas to be with happy and jolly people. 

The most meaningful moment is Christmas day and we celebrate it with joyful hope. We celebrated the mass and shared some fun and laughter at a family gathering. 

Back in my home country,  the Philippines, my family had the Merriest Christmas celebrations. I may not be present, but they're always in my heart every Christmas. 

The year 2023 has been a great year against all odds. We continue to hope and dream about beautiful things and meaningful life. And we continue to be grateful for all the blessings and graces we received. We end the year with love shared with our loved ones. We end the year with peace and joy in our hearts. 

©️ 2023 Del Cusay

𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀: 𝗔 𝗝𝗼𝘆𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲

𝙄'𝙢 𝙬𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙝𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙤𝙨𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙄 𝙗𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙙 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙘𝙝 2023 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙮 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 G𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙛𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮. 𝙉𝙤𝙬, 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙄 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙄'𝙢 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨.

Loss is one of the most painful human experiences and we all go through the grieving process from denial to acceptance. That's life, we have to move on and continue to live our greatest life.

Life is precious and it can be fragile. It's a God-given gift that we treasure. We had joyful memories, but we also had sorrowful moments. Despite what we've been through, we lift them to God who gives us life. 

It's my second Christmas celebration in Canada and it's not a white Christmas like last year. It's warmer than usual and a bit tolerably cold that doesn't need a layer of clothes. Different experience than last year, with a whole new scenery and vibe.

However, we had the season's first snowfall in early December, though it melted so fast the next day. That may be the first and last snowfall before the year ends and so we enjoyed it before it's gone. 

Christmas season in Canada may not be as jolly as in my home country, the Philippines. But our simple celebration here is meaningful and leaves a lasting memory to cherish.

 

Our trip to Vancouver Christmas Market was my first-ever experience of seeing and meeting people in a festive holiday ambiance and mood. It's a cool Christmas-themed village with surrounding skyscrapers, a scenic mountain backdrop, and coastal waters.

As Canada's most livable city, Vancouver never fails to amaze me with its natural beauty and wonders. And the Christmas Market with the Vancouver skyline is a wonderful and festive experience this holiday season.

Christmas will always be in our hearts. It's the most significant moment in our lives to celebrate with gratitude and remain joyful in hope.

There will always be light that glows in our hearts and we radiate it to people who are dear to us and the people we meet this holiday season. We are blessed and hopeful that things will be brighter and stronger than ever.

©️ 2023 Del Cusay 

Christmas in Our Hearts 2022: 𝗠𝘆 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗱𝗮

𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧. 𝙄𝙩'𝙨 𝙛𝙪𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜. 𝙃𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧, 𝙘𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙩 𝙛𝙖𝙧 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙝𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙙𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚. 𝙄𝙩'𝙨 𝙖 𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙩𝙚, 𝙬𝙚𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝘾𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙙𝙖. 

Family is forever, and yes, they are in the Philippines. I feel sad on my first Christmas in Canada. It's not something I expect. It's not something I wanted. 

There's no "Noche Buena" culture here, a tradition in the Philippines. It's quiet, and people prefer to be at home for some reason. 

Is Christ present during our darkest times? The times when we feel down and not feeling good about ourselves? 

There's more love in the Philippines during Christmas. The reason we dwell on the most meaningful and memorable moments in our home country. 

Whenever we reminisce about the good Christmas moments, it gives us a good feeling and brightens the darkness. 

A family is there who understands and comforts us. It's the most special day of the year when we remember and talk to them. To share the good and not-so-good things we see, think, and feel. 

All I want this Christmas is to feel the presence of Christ. His love and the Holy Spirit to guide and lift me. Others may have forgotten and been blinded by their priorities, but we can't follow their path. They always have the choice to make beyond our control. 

I still want to feel the bright side of Christmas. The ups and downs will always be there, but Christ will be in our hearts. 

In this year's message, the Pope said, "Even in dark times, never lose hope in God's love," and that there is light even in our darkest hour. 

©️ 2022 Del Cusay 

𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗙𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗹𝗲

𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙣, 𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙨𝙖𝙮. 𝙄 𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝙠𝙞𝙙, 𝙄 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝘿𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙨.

Christmas is the most beautiful time of the year. We sang Christmas carols, received gifts from our loved ones, and anticipated gifts from Santa Claus. 

Back then, on Christmas Eve in my home country, the Philippines, we celebrated mass together as a family and shared a meal for "Noche Buena." Family is forever. We had a joyous celebration together. 

As a grown-up adult, I still find meaning and joy in celebrating Christmas. This year, however, will be a different experience. It will be my first time celebrating Christmas away from my family in the Philippines. It's my first Christmas in Canada. 

Here at Lumagica in Surrey, Canada, it brings back wonderful memories of when I was a kid. There's a fascination with Christmas trees and lights, the joyful spirit of hearing Christmas carols, and the excitement of seeing Santa Claus. 

Lumagica is a magical light festival with a North Pole winter wonderland theme. It's about attracting families to get together and experience a spectacular white Christmas.

Christmas is fun for the whole family, the

adults, and the little ones. But for the grown-ups, there's always that kid in us. We shout for joy; we genuinely enjoy! 

Let this Christmas season bring back that glow in our faces and sparkle in our eyes like a child. Find the magical experience that Christmas brings. Find happiness and joy in our hearts.

 

©️ 2022 Del Cusay 

𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗲𝗮 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗸𝘆 𝗚𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗹𝗮 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗵

𝙄𝙩'𝙨 𝙖 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙗𝙮 𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩'𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙎𝙚𝙖 𝙩𝙤 𝙎𝙠𝙮 𝙂𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙤𝙡𝙖 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙤𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙟𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙘 𝙧𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙝𝙞𝙜𝙝 𝙪𝙥 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙠𝙮. 

This outdoor destination is one of the best places to visit in British Columbia. The breathtaking sea view from the sky and on top of the mountain is worth the experience. It's exhilarating and truly spectacular. 

Let's explore this stunningly beautiful destination in Squamish, an hour's drive from North Vancouver, passing through the scenic sea-to-sky highway. 

From the base station, The Sea to Sky Gondola is a 10-minute/ 2 km ride to the summit. You'll see the forested mountain and the beautiful turquoise waters of the sea (Howe Sound) as you ascend to a higher elevation until reaching the summit lodge, which offers the most spectacular view of the surrounding mountain, the valley, and the sea. 

On the summit lodge, there are restaurants and cafes for refreshments extended to the outdoor patio and viewing deck offering a view of the magnificent snow-capped mountains. 

The adventure never stops as you get to experience the surrounding trail network passing through the 100-meter Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. We walked through the most accessible trail (Spirit) and the best trail (Panorama), leading to the Chief Overlook Viewing Platform, where you can capture the best shots of the snow-capped mountain as a backdrop. 

Other trails take longer to explore, but you'll always be aware since all trails lead and end at the summit lodge viewing deck. The courses are for beginners and intermediates, so it's a family-friendly hiking experience with viewing areas and platforms for picture-taking to capture memorable moments. 

Sea to Sky Gondola is an all-year-round adventure. It's best in any season, whether on a hot, dry summer or a snowy and chilly winter. The nature trail and the viewing platforms are alluring and worth revisiting in a different season. 

The land of the Squamish First Nation is home to the Sea to Sky Gondola. They protect and preserve the beauty of their heritage and share it with everyone. It's not just about fun and adventure but learning about indigenous people's culture, their early beginnings, and evolution as a First Nation. 

Sea to Sky Gondola is one of the most incredible adventures of a lifetime in British Columbia. It's a place to go and chill, an adventure by nature with a thrill. 

©️ 2022 Del Cusay