Today is my last day of big city awesomeness, and awesome it was. I savoured the independence and simplicity. As it was just Selah and I here I didn't have to consult, organize or plan much - all three factors are a big part of my home life. It was a nice break. However, I am feeling excited to go home to another kind of awesomeness named John, Mikhayla, Rowan, Gabby and Maggie.

The city was like visual candy to me, I see phenomenal photography locations everywhere. This big city summer week will definitely be an annual trip and next year I will probably open up some city portrait sessions.

While I was here I was doing some work for the gloriously important Y.A.N.A  and I can't STRESS enough how meaningful the organization is. I just came from the hospital where I was a fly on the wall as a couple met with parts of the medical team that will be involved in the birth of their child. This Comox Valley couple have to be close to Children's Hospital as the medical community has anticipated possible heart and neurological complications.

Wow.

Can you put yourself in their shoes? A first baby, being taken away from your friends and family, and having your hopes derailed. The fear and stress could be really overwhelming. Then you add in the stress of being away from work for an unknown period of time and just the general feeling of being displaced.

Now imagine having nowhere to live while you are here. Staying hotels or at one of the two temporary facilities for families in this situation.

But - no

That's not the case for them. After their appointment today they get to go back to a place that is their private space, that is clean, private and as much like a home as one could want in a situation like this. A place where many of their expenses are covered.

Thanks to Y.A.N.A. - that is thier story.

So I know many of you readers are big supporters of Y.A.N.A. and you like movies right? Well be sure to check out the Movie Under the Stars on August 19th. This event, sponsored by First Credit Union and Insurance benefits Y.A.N.A.

In September the Century Bike Ride fundraiser will be taking place - this year there is also the addition of the children's ride. You can find out more on the Y.A.N.A. website. 

I'll cut the sentiment now, but I just have to remind you, making a difference no matter where and how you do it is actually really easy, and although it isn't always visible, the difference is there and it matters.