Lessons from the Beach
Kitsilano has always been at the top of my list of places to live in the city. With its quiet suburban streets only seconds away from the beach, it reminds me of growing up in Nanaimo and will always have a special place in my heart.
While in Nanaimo, I was blessed to grow up within walking distance to several neighbourhood beaches which hold many fond memories. Among these memorable moments were summer afternoons filled with walks to our local 7-11 for Slurpees and bags of 5 cent candies. We’d take our treats down the hill to Blueback Beach and then descended the 300 stairs down to the expansive beach below. If timed right, the tide would be low enough to reveal the rippling sand for what looked like miles. We’d bask in the sun laughing, exchanging secrets and planning for our futures. Later in life, the beach became a place to reset, providing relief from life’s busyness, clarity and perspective.
A year after moving to Vancouver I got the chance to live in Kitsilano — one street up from the beach, and relived my island life. There’s something so refreshing about walking out your front door and being met with the calming sounds of waves, the laughter of friends and family enjoying the day and the warm sand beneath your feet. It felt like a piece of the island was here with me and I found myself finding a new spot for beach treats and sharing laughter, secrets and dreams under the same sky.
Kitsilano is known for its mountain views, laid-back spirit and active community — just to name a few. But as the sun makes its daily journey across the sky, there can be lessons learned from the waves, the sand and the trees if you sit and listen.
Perspective
Like the old saying goes, we are all drops of water in the expansive ocean and grains of sand on the shore. A single grain doesn’t add up to much. Put all those grains together and they can change the landscape of the beach. It’s humbling to think that like sand, you may feel insignificant as an individual. But when you connect with others, just imagine the impact we could have together.
Change
The ocean is a great example of how life is fleeting. One minute there are crashing waves, and the next, the water appears to be glass, calm and unmoving. Similar to the beach, life can also be unpredictable at times — if you get towed under, you must get up again. Change is the only constant in life and we will all deal with adversity at one point or another. So ride through the ups and downs because what’s on the other side was meant for you.
Now or Never
Have you ever found yourself scanning the beach for sea glass, pretty shells or skipping stones? Sometimes we make a mental note to pick it up in a minute — I’ll do that later. But like life, the ocean waits for no one and is capable of washing away treasures that were meant for us. Every minute counts. Grab the opportunity when it comes, as “later” might not ever.
Although I no longer live in Kitsilano, I always find myself there on a busy summer afternoon or a quiet spring evening waiting to hear what the beach has to say next. You can bring a piece of the beach home and celebrate the natural beauty and laid-back spirit of Kitsilano with my latest print — or explore other Vancouver gems and see what lessons the city has for you.
Decorating With the Queens
Have you ever browsed the aisles of your favourite decor store and stumbled upon a piece of art or furniture that you instantly fall in love with? Its uniqueness, colours and textures spoke to you and you weren’t sure if you could leave the store without it. But then uncertainty kicked in and an intrusive voice questioned how you might work it into your current space. We’ve probably all been there, and put that picture, mirror, side table (whatever it was) back on the shelf and walked out of there before we could semi regret making another purchase that would collect dust in a closet or end up being donated in a few months. Whether you’re looking to add a pop of colour or create a feature display, here’s my guide on how to decorate with the Haitian Queens Collection.
Decorating your home may feel like the chicken and the egg predicament — what comes first? Whether you’re starting from scratch or wanting to update your current setup, a safe place to start is with colour. What colours do you like? What colours are already in your space? Where in your space do you plan to add these new colours? All of this matters, as colours can influence your energy and how you spend your time in a space.
Once you’ve answered these questions, choose a hero colour and one or two complimentary colours. As the name describes, your hero colour will be the hero or the focal point of your space. This can be a statement piece of furniture or art, throw cushions or blankets. Your complimentary colours will do just that, compliment your hero colour. This can be done with the subtle threads of a rug or blanket, brush strokes in a painting, or even plants. When you have decided what colours you would like to lean into, it’s time to head out to look for those pieces that will zhuzh up your space.
Portrait of Maelila paired with the Mini Cushion by Goodee x Tensira
Bold and Contrasting
If you’re looking to add a bold colour to your palette, Maelila from the Haitian Queens collection may do just that. With her burnt orange and red tones she is a symbol of optimism and creativity. Complimented with deep green she would enhance any office space and add warmth and positivity. Pair her with a Mini Cushion by Goodee and Tensira for your office chair. With its timeless patterns this sustainably made cushion is a beautiful decorative accent.
Portrait of Farah. Alumina Table Lamp by Goodee x Tala
Calm and Serene
A bedroom should be a calm oasis to unwind and relax. The colour palette of Farah airs on the cool side with her shades of blue green, making her a great bedroom piece. These colours are known to be soothing and can invite harmony and diffuse anxiety. Set the mood with Farah and the Alumina Table Lamp by Goodee and Tala. This multi-functional light can be used as a table lamp or wall sconce to offer multiple display options.
Portrait of Nadia. Short Basket by Goodee x Baba Tree
Cheerful and Positive
Our living rooms are where most of life happens. Whether you are relaxing, hosting, or creating, this space should feel like home. Nadia, with her bright yellows and deep green represents confidence and can add happiness and positivity to any living room space. Expertly woven by hand in Ghana using sturdy palm leaves, the Short Basket by Goodee and Baba Tree compliments the bright tones of Nadia. Blending well with various aesthetics, the Short Basket is perfect for storing extra blankets and pillows.