Author: Retirement Reflections

Prior to retirement, I lived and worked in Beijing China for fourteen years (Middle School Principal/Deputy Director at The Western Academy of Beijing). Leaving international life behind, my husband and I retired to Vancouver Island in June 2015. To document both this transition and our new adventures, ‘Retirement Reflections’ was born. I hope that you enjoy reading these reflections, and will be willing to share your own.
Books, Food, Link Ups

A Reminder and An Introduction

Retirement Reflections

This month's ‘What’s On Your Plate?’ will go live on Wednesday, August  4. My cohost, Deb, and I would love for you to join in. Let us know something that’s been on your plate this past month. It could be breakfast, lunch, dinner, snack, dine-in or dine-out. You can share with a simple photo, a few words… Continue reading A Reminder and An Introduction

Food, Link Ups

What’s On Your Plate: Cantonese Noodles – 4 Ways!

Retirement Reflections

Inspired by Janis's link-up recommending Hello Fresh, I decided to give them a try. I had always been curious about this type of meal service...and a tad skeptical. I had imagined too much package waste, too expensive, too much meat, too many calories and too similar to processed food. When our first box arrived, I… Continue reading What’s On Your Plate: Cantonese Noodles – 4 Ways!

Food, Link Ups

‘What’s on Your Plate – July Edition’ is Coming Soon!

Retirement Reflections

This month’s ‘What’s On Your Plate’ will go live on Wednesday, July 7. Below are a few of my food photos from the last few weeks. (Yup, I'm that annoying person with a camera when others are trying to eat.) I am incredibly grateful that family and close friends are once again front and center in… Continue reading ‘What’s on Your Plate – July Edition’ is Coming Soon!

Friendship, Photography, Reflection

“All The Time In The World”

Retirement Reflections

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!

Behind the Scenery

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…

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Food, Gratitude, Link Ups, Reflection

What’s On Your Plate — Bowl of Hope To Go

Retirement Reflections

What's been on my plate recently: Vegetarian Minestrone Soup served in beautiful ceramic bowls. The soup was prepared by The Salvation Army (Parksville). The bowls were handmade and donated by The Arrowsmith Potters Guild. This was part of the Bowl of Hope To Go Virtual Fundraiser that recently took place on May 28, World Hunger… Continue reading What’s On Your Plate — Bowl of Hope To Go

Friendship, Hiking, Link Ups, Trying New Things, Vancouver Island

What’s On Your Plate for May? The Outdoors Edition.

Retirement Reflections

Part One: In early April, Vancouver Island had its first blast of warm weather. Naturally, a (socially distanced) picnic celebration with my cohost was in order. Lunch with a View Here's what was on our plates: Fried Chicken, Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce, Potato Salad and Potato Chips. For dessert we had Sargento Balanced Breaks (cheese,… Continue reading What’s On Your Plate for May? The Outdoors Edition.

Food, Link Ups

Reminder: What’s On Your Plate – May 5

Retirement Reflections

The second 'What's On Your Plate' linkup will begin Wednesday, May 5. Deb and I would love for you to join us. Tell us about a dish that you have recently enjoyed (regardless of who made it). 😀 Write and link your own post or display on your choice of social media or simply leave… Continue reading Reminder: What’s On Your Plate – May 5