October did not turn out the way I thought it would, in many ways. I had a creative September where I was getting into a flow with posting on my site again and was dreaming up some new writing projects. I had also (as it turns out, temporarily) solidified my desired work/life balance through a change in my work schedule; however, life had other plans for me this month. I have heard it said that autumn is the season which teaches us that change can be beautiful; a notion I am trying to hold on to as I navigate some recent challenges. While I lean into this period of transition, I thought it would bring me (and hopefully you) some joy to share the special memories that I did make over the last four weeks.
October kicked off with an exciting first-time visit from a dear friend who lives across the country in the city where I previously resided. It was soul-filling to be reunited and to have the chance to show her some of my favourite spots in this new home of mine. We visited cafes, gardens, wineries, various parks and enjoyed the glowing downtown beauty of this coastal capital. We even had the incredible honour of witnessing humpback whales close to shore while on one of my favourite hikes. It was only my second time seeing whales in the wild by chance and not on a whale-watching tour- an utterly magical thing.
I’ve taken solace in nature even more often than normal during the difficult times this month and have been nourished and soothed by the changing colours and cooler temperatures. So many of the local hikes that I regularly enjoy are transformed at this time of year, bringing a fresh perspective to my explorations. I am especially making a point to get into the woods after work, while there is still some light left, which helps me to let go of my day and transition into a state of a calm, relaxed presence.
One of the things I most look forward to at this time of year are the fiery sunsets- they seem to arrive specifically at the turn of the season and this month has not disappointed. With the sun setting so much earlier now, I can often stop and catch the sunset on my way home from work. Nothing leaves me in a greater state of awe than seeing the sky become a work of art with hues that change swiftly before my eyes. The fact that the beauty is fleeting makes it all the more special to witness.
Compiling this post of October’s photo highlights helps to remind me that amongst the struggles of late, there has been so much magic, beauty, joy and love in my life- love for this place I call home, for the relationships in my life that do not waver, and for the seasonal cycles that remind us nothing is permanent. There is change in the air, and I am going to ride the breeze to what lies beyond.
Autumn whispered to the wind, “I fall; but always rise again.”
Angie Weiland-Crosby
How was the month of October for you? I would love to hear about a memorable moment you’ve had in the comments below.
Making Space For Dreams 
Wow, such a wonderful collection of so many beautiful photos, especially the one with the luminous skyline of Victoria’s inner harbour. Around ten years ago I had a chance to visit Vancouver, but due to the shortage of time, I never ended up taking the ferry to Victoria on Vancouver Island. Hopefully one day I’ll be able to fulfil that dream. Thanks for sharing and inspiring 🙂 Aiva xx
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This comment made my day, Aiva! Thank you so much for your kind compliment and I truly do hope you get the chance to visit Victoria one day. It is such a beautiful city with so much to see and do. I am very lucky to call it home. 😊💕
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Some gorgeous snapshots of such a magical wild haven! 🙂 Hope you have a lovely Halloween ahead ❤
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Thank you so much, you kind soul! I’m enjoying the Halloween atmosphere and even carved a pumpkin yesterday- turns out it’s just as fun when you’re an adult. Wishing you the loveliest of weekends as well! 💗
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What a Beautiful place! WOW!
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This comment made me smile. Thank you SO much. I am happy to know that the beauty of my home came through in the post 💕
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It’s amazing how nature can be so comforting and that spending time outdoors can help put everything into perspective. It sounds like you’re making the most of the fall, especially with those gorgeous sunsets. Your pictures are stunning. I was battling a wicked cold for about half of the month, so it’s been nice to live vicariously through your adventures.
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I agree completely- nature is a saving grace for me during difficult times! Thank you for your lovely feedback about my photos- it is a joy to share some of my adventures through this platform! Sorry to hear that you were battling such a drawn-out cold- I hope it has fully passed and that you are feeling well now.❤️
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Thankfully we’re all better now. It was a great reason to slow down and take care of ourselves. I find it so funny how when I was younger I could bounce back so quickly after getting sick. Now it seems to linger much longer.
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I hear you- I find this to be true for recovery from both illness and a drink too many haha. Very different experiences as you get older!
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It was so lovely to see your comment Laura! And really love your recent posts especially this one ❤ ❤ Such gorgeous photos, your version of autumn is just divine! Let's pretend every month is October, full of beautiful changes and possibilities.
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Thank you for all of the love and support, Phyllis! I love what you wrote about October- it is my favourite month and you are right- it is so full of beautiful changes and possibilities. I hope you are enjoying autumn in your part of the world! 🍂
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Those picture are divine… I know what you mean about a swing, although I would likely break it lol
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Thank you so much for that sweet comment about the photos in this post! I LOVE swings, especially finding them on a hike or at the beach, but there is always that risk/fear of breakage when they are homemade ones lol I have been there😅
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Haha I think we’ve all been there 😂
There’s a clarity in the air with your pictures, or maybe it’s the place. They’re beautiful ❤️
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It truly means so much to me that you enjoy the photos- I love when the beauty of the island resonates with others through my lens. 😊📸
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Oh it really does… Thank you so much for sharing 🙂
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