Back in September, while keeping dry in our trailer on rainy days in Tofino, we watched the rise in COVID cases across the country and the rapidly increasing case numbers in the USA. Although we had held out hope, we realized that we would need to find alternate plans for the winter months. We’d intended to drive south into the western US states as the weather grew cooler in Canada, but seeing the second wave arrive meant that it wasn’t safe to travel. We needed to find a furnished place to rent at the end of October.
We searched and we budgeted and tried to narrow down places to stay based on available activities or new experiences. Finding a fully furnished place to rent proved to be challenging so we turned to Airbnb. We found a lovely-looking farmhouse in Duncan, BC and the owner graciously agreed to a two-month rental. She was so welcoming, giving us the tour of the farm when we arrived and introducing us to all of the animals. The kids were so excited to get inside so that they could claim their own bedrooms that we left our stuff in the truck and took care of business. This home has 4 bedrooms. We’ve NEVER lived in a home with 4 bedrooms. Each kid was going to get their own room for the very first time. They were beyond thrilled.
Choosing rooms was tough; the girls wanted to be close together but Claire’s favourite pink room (with a queen bed) was in the attic. Molly’s choice of a yellow room with a double bed was on the main floor. And Simon really wanted the blue room (also queen bed) leaving Erik and me the second attic room that had only one single bed. One child was asked to give up their first choice to accept the single bed so that the parents could have a bigger bed. Simon agreed to take the single bed when he discovered that the room had a secret door into a closet that was big enough to be a playroom, which he affectionately called his playpen.
With room allocations complete, we unloaded Chuck, went out for groceries, and began the process of unpacking and settling. When all that you have fits into the trunk of an SUV and its car-top carrier, it doesn’t take long to unpack.
Over the course of two months, we had opportunities to explore the area, spend time with the animals, learn about horse care and training, and watch a little kitten grow into a playful ball of fuzz. We hiked some ocean-side trails, visited a couple of trestle bridges, visited Victoria and Miniature World, and interacted with a variety of mini-animals at a petting farm in Nanaimo. We took a ferry to Salt Spring Island, saw the Christmas Lights in Lady Smith, and hiked to the river to see if the spawning salmon were still there. We played lots of tag, slopped through mud puddles, and did hill runs up the steepest hill we’d seen. We also got through a heavy snow storm and a 12-hr power outage – a first for the kids.
However fun these activities were, the absolute best part of our stay in Duncan were meeting the wonderful people who frequented the farm to care for their horses. With their warm hearts and friendly dispositions, we became instant friends. They were extra patient with the kids and their gazillion questions. They shared their insights and showed us the great personalities of their horses. We got to know Neuman, Max, Baxter, Mikey, Titus, Skyfall, Lily, Sailor, Extra, and Whimsey (all horses) through Heather 1, Heather 2, and Joan. It was inspiring to see these ladies outside every day taking care of their animals. We also got to know Chuck the rooster (myself especially as I am a light sleeper) and the 5 hens.
We also used our time to focus on some personal interests. Molly got to practice some baking and cake decorating. Claire found an easel, some paints, and some inspiration to try some new artistic mediums. Simon discovered that he enjoyed math and logic puzzles and building with K’NEX. We were also able to find a routine that seemed to suit everyone which included some education and movement. Erik studied for his pilot’s licence and found a simulator on which to practice. I used the two months to work on my mental health and get some needed self-care. I worked with Lesley at NeuroHarmony and got some wonderful support.
Although very different from previous years, Christmas was a success. Santa found us and was even gracious in putting the kids’ stocking stuffers into their makeshift pillow case stockings. We found a tree, borrowed some decorations, and made origami stars to give it a colourful touch. Even though we were alone in our celebrations, we still found our Christmas spirits and cherished our experience together.
Alas, it was time to move on. We spent 5 days sorting, purging, and packing. Some of our things went to new families. Some of our things got mailed back home for when we return. Some of our lighter items were shipped ahead to our next rental home and the rest was packed back into our tubs, bags, and boxes to be stacked and shoved into Chuck. New Year’s Eve was our last night in Duncan so we celebrated early and got a good night’s sleep for the travel day ahead.
In retrospect, we hadn’t realized how much we needed a place to rest and remain still until we were sprawled out in Heather’s home. We celebrated Halloween, Molly’s 8th birthday, our 6-month tripiversary, and Christmas. A big thank you to Heather and Heather and Joan for their warm welcome, their hospitality, and their friendship. I am certain we will fondly remember Duncan, BC for years to come.