With Love, from Cape Breton – An Update
Or even just an explanation as to why I haven’t been as active on the blog lately…
Every bit of our life and routines have changed… It’s been a little weird to get used to.
But anywhoooo….
So we’ve been in Cape Breton for about 2 months now.
And to be honest… this is take three of writing this post. I figured it was due and I wanted to come on here talking about the things I love about this beautiful place. But honestly, it didn’t sound like me. It wasn’t my usual genuine voice. There are LOTS of things that make me appreciate this place. But I’d be lying if I said I was in love with it.
I guess it’s hard coming from the Yukon… Ya know, everyone always says Cape Breton is one of the most beautiful places they’ve ever been… and yes, it’s BEAUTIFUL. But those people who say that I don’t think have ever been to the Yukon. Being surrounded by mountains at all times…. even when it’s cold it’s sunny… the cute little boutique shops… surprisingly trendy bars and cafes….Whitehorse is a perfect little story book town. It’s tough competition. Cape Breton is a close second.
I didn’t think I would miss it so much. BUT that being said, with time I’m beginning to find the little charms this new place has and I’m so excited to share them with you guys.
So yes, I will admit, it’s been quite the adjustment. The East Coast is a helluva lot different than the west…. *whisper* People here eat white bread. I didn’t even know you could still BUY white bread…*end whisper*
But we came out here because we were ready for some big life changes… and we got em.
For starters…We’ve been faced with some serious transitions…
Biggest transition: Going from serving/bartending to a full time day job
I thought I was going to be a lifer… I did. Honestly, I fucking love the bar/restaurant industry. I love wine and food culture, the hustle, the having a little bit of control over how much money you make. I love bitching about people over a fat glass of wine at a table covered in cash with my coworkers at 1am. It also doesn’t hurt that you become like family with the people you work with.
But it just wasn’t working for me anymore. It was great having all day with Lily and shopping while everyone else is at work. Having time for things like the gym and cooking and then working while Lily was in bed. But I needed something with a little more stability and nights that weren’t so late… and a job that wasn’t so soul crushing.
I still have no idea how I got so lucky but I recently started a job that I totally don’t deserve to be completely honest. Great hours, amazing experience, and my boss and coworkers are gold. There’s some travel too so make sure you’re following along on Instastories to get some more glimpses of the East Coast.
The biggest challenge (and I mean this in the most positive way because I NEEDED this!) with this change is just finding a routine that works for us. We’re still not in our own place yet either so that’s a whole other set back… (Only a couple more weeks!). I’m trying to find time for the gym, the blog, new friends, the obvious reality TV, and still getting all my family time with Tyler and Lily.We never really had that balance before either so I’m thinking this new adjustment will really help. (Or maybe it’s just not something I’m good at!)
It’s been a work in progress but I’m getting there. Of course, I’ll be filling you guys in once I get a routine down… but until then, I’m taking any and all tips! Comment below…. PLEASE!
Another big transition: Changing Roles
As we get adjusted and get into this new routine and move into our own place again (did you hear? Only a couple more weeks!) We decided it was best if Tyler stayed home with Lily. He’s taking a little break from the whole work thing and I’ve gotta say, he’s killing it as a stay at home dad. He has no problem spending 8 hours a day at the park. You’d think this would make him the favourite parent, but I still win 😉
It’s been great for him and Lily and great for me too. As a woman, being on mat leave means putting your career on hold for a year. When I got pregnant with Lily I had JUST been offered a job doing what I went to school for, and that’s been on hold ever since. Now it’s my turn to do what I want for a living .
For anyone lucky enough to get an opportunity like this, I highly recommend you take it. The change up is nice, dad gets to understand why you went stir crazy being in a house all day, and it’s great for the kid.
Also, it’s pretty fun reminding him he currently lives with his mom and has no job.
….Sorry not sorry Ty.
My Favourite things about Cape Breton so far….
We’re still trying to find all the cute spots but we have a few favourites
For coffee – Doktor Luke’s. Cute, a touch of an industrial vibe without being too trendy. The BEST coffee. Probably the only place in Cape Breton that might have a touch of a “hipster” vibe but without being annoying. In fact, I’m currently sitting in here as I write this post.
Beer – Okay I don’t know how Cape Breton got not just one, but TWO kick ass breweries. Breton Brewing (They just launched the BEST vanilla oatmeal stout) and Big Spruce. (Their Tag! You’re it! IPA might just be the best IPA I’ve ever had) And their beers are all certified organic.
Restaurants – Flavor. So far, this is the only place here I’ve found that is health conscious. Their menu is tailored to people with food restrictions. AND it actually tastes good. Their location on the water is to die for. Beautiful patio looking out over the water.
Other great things…
There’s an awesome Farmers market… where you can actually buy big spruce so that’s pretty great. It’s also right next to Lily’s dance school. BONUS.
Hanks Farm – I just love this place. If you’ve been following along, this is where basically all my new photos come from. I love spending an afternoon out there grabbing fresh fruits and veggies. There’s a bouncy castle (!!!) and park for kids. A corn maze. A pumpkin patch. These guys really did it right.
Beaches – I haven’t been to enough of them yet but the fact that I’m back in a place that has a coast line is pretty exciting to me.
Fall – Okay guys. Fall in Cape Breton is like every basic bitch’s Instagram photo wet dream…. on crack.
Haunted shit – Everything. Everything here is old AF and haunted. I don’t really like old. I’m more of a shiny and new type of person. But there’s haunted barn tours and everything is creepy. as. fuck. How I feel about this will probably change when I decide to buy a house….
Expect more updates! I will be sharing any little gems I find here 😉
XOXO