It's About the Journey, Not the Destination

There is no doubt in my mind that little CJ will grow up with a thirst for adventure and an appreciation for the journey, as opposed to just the destination. Her four biggest role models in life so far, her parents and her godparents, are nothing short of amazing. It isn’t just about taking time out of their busy lives to explore, life itself is an adventure to them. It is very common for the five of them to escape the city for some time in the mountains, but this particular weekend was special because it was CJ’s SECOND annual Christmas Tree Hunt… she was 9 months old for her first. This little girl is so comfortable out in wilderness - it has been her second home her whole life and it was so neat to watch her contentment. She also has a wonderful personality and can already talk up a storm so she created so many laughs amongst everyone.

For me it was also a breath of fresh mountain air. And it was a break from my usual documentary family photography in the city. I had so very much fun taking videography from this “Day in the Life” that was compiled into a Holiday Family Film for this group of friends. They decided to do this as a Christmas gift for each other this year instead of typical gifts and I loved the idea. It for sure will be a big gift for CJ for all her life to be able to look back on this special day surrounded by the people that love her most.

The day started with a cozy brunch and coffee in Calgary before driving out of the city. The goal of the day was to get two trees, one for each family, but it did not go as planned. Most of the trees in the Bragg Creek area seemed to have something growing on them that made everyone a little unsure. But there is no way that was going to the ruin the day. Everyone had such great attitudes and it ended up feeling like a perfect Christmas Tree Hunt regardless. Enjoying the journey is definitely a value that CJ will grow up with and she is one lucky little girl!