Legacy: A Journey of Milestones, Memories & Achievements

The less painful version of paintball.

Conquer rugged desert terrain on all-terrain vehicles for an off-road thrill. I can't even count how many times I've been ATVing now and in how many countries!

So many times that it's left me wondering why I don't just buy some axes and do this in the forest for free?

Leap off towering cliffs with a parachute? Hmm, I'm good without.

Experience rafting through dark, mysterious cave rivers for a unique adventure.

Plunge from dizzying heights and wind up as a crash test dummy? Hard pass.

Descend narrow canyons by rappelling, swimming, and hiking for a multi-faceted thrill. Blue Canyon in New Zealand (2014), and of course, Kawasan Falls in the Philippines (2024).

Endless caving experiences from Horne Lake caves on Vancouver Island, Cody Caves in Nelson, BC, to glow worms in New Zealand, the arsenal of caverns in the Philippines, and beyond.

Leap from towering cliffs into deep blue waters for an adrenaline-fueled plunge? No thanks. 😂

Numerous times out in the bush training friends.

Explore underwater depths on a single breath in one of the world’s most unique diving spots.

Beautiful way to experience Canadian life in the winter.

Literally one of the best ways to work out while having fun at the same time. Unparalleled experience.

Never felt more like a superhero!

From Vegas to Calgary, I've fired uzis to rifles!

Literally one of my favourite adult playground-style activities. Strap in and work your way through various tree-top obstacles.

I'm super allergic, but love a casual ride through the mountains. Everywhere from Canada and the US to Philippines and Colombia. Photo on this entry was from Pereira's coffee fields in Colombia.

Challenged myself by scaling a frozen ice tower at Big White in 2014, and 2016.

Speed around in a powerful boat, make sharp turns, and get tossed around like a roller coaster!

Harness the wind and waves for an exhilarating water sport adventure.

Undefeated reigning champion! I've probably hosted over 30 games by now.

Inflatable obstacle course of awesome.

You grow up in BC, Canada and you grow up mountain biking. While I've never been one for crazy downhill, I've been out on the trails more times than I can count!

My first and last time. The paiiiin! Never again.

Glide over stunning alpine landscapes for an unforgettable soaring experience.

Because we all know how much I love the winter. My "friend" ran off with my warm dry clothes down the street after I did my tip and I had to chase after them.

Smash the hell out of whatever!

Countless typical Canadian summers! Though, deceptively dangerous. My friend broke her tailbone!

Free-climbed the full perimeter of Yamnuska (Rocky Mountains, Canada) across the sketchiest ledge with only a metal chain as support. This was by far my most memorable rock climbing experience as it's not something I do often. My usual go-to is something like click-and-climb 😂

Everywhere from The Pipe Rollercoaster (I met the mayor and was the very first rider when it opened), to Disneyland in the US, Rainbow's End in New Zealand, and theme parks across Europe. As long as I'm strapped in, I'm fearless. I've come a long way since exiting the Haunted Mansion ride at Disneyland early as a kid!

My very first time was Ahipara on the northern tip of New Zealand, and I fell in love with the sport. Since then anytime I see an option to do it, I jump on the chance! Notably in California and Oregon since.

Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with panoramic Abel Tasman views during free-fall.

Blasting across the valley at super speed in a carriage.

Bolt down rapids head first on a body board!

Giant temporary waterslide built overtop of a city street.

Regular Canadian wintering.

Carve down powdery slopes in one of the world’s top winter sports destinations.

Navigate turbulent rapids in one of the world’s most scenic canyons.

Not quite what you'd expect, but the wind picked up, and we fought huge white-capped ocean waves to get to the shipwreck at Royston. Maybe not rapids, but this definitely counts! I was hurled out of my kayak; luckily the water was only shoulder-deep.

While I never got into actual sailing like my friend Doug, this was a good half-way!

Glide across the ocean on a board propelled by wind, combining surfing and sailing.

Soared through lush canopies on adrenaline-pumping zip line adventures in New Zealand, between the borders Spain and Portugal, in the mountains of British Columbia, through jungles in Mexico, on a bicycle wire in the Philippines, and beyond. Almost everywhere I travel, if there's a zip line, I'm there.

Roll down a hill inside a giant inflatable orb for a one-of-a-kind thrill.

Regionalist; stoic rural figures.

Pop art; repetitive imagery.

Renaissance sculpture; idealized form.

Baroque portrait; captivating gaze.

Didn't get a photo of this anti-war mural in stark monochrome. But, it was in the same museum! Photo on this entry is Picasso's Dead Birds (Oiseaux morts).

Complex composition; royal scene.

Romantic; revolutionary allegory.

Renaissance portrait; enigmatic smile.

Modern realism; urban isolation.

Bold self-portrait; emblem of resilience.

Northern Renaissance; rich symbolism.

Renaissance myth; graceful form.

Fresco; iconic hand gesture. Unfortunately, photography is strictly prohibited.

Triptych; surreal fantasy.

Woodblock print; dynamic seascape.

Symbolist; gold-leaf embrace.

Mural; dramatic final meal.

Baroque group portrait; dynamic light.

Surreal; melting clocks.

Renaissance fresco; classical gathering.

Expressionist; anguished figure.

Post-Impressionist; swirling night sky.

Bronze sculpture; reflective power.

Ancient Greek; timeless beauty.

Iconic portrait; minimalist impact.

It wasn't long before I was throwing up chunks of gummy bear and it was coming out of my nose.

So many tried; so many failed. 60 minute timer. I think the first time we did this was back in 2004 when I was living in Burnaby.

Maybe you've got to swim in the hot tub like a dolphin, make animal noises, or get dow on all fours and bolt around the yard.

Artery clogging awesomeness.

Drinking a whole 1 lbs cube of butter. How did we not kill each other when we were younger?

And then he asked if they could do his back 😂

Just how many marshmallows can you cram in your mouth before you choke?

Apparently this can be lethal? We got lucky... more than once.

Eating a tablespoon of coffee grounds straight.

Whatever ingredients speak to us at the moment.

I have a huge costume cabinet courtesy of all of the murder mysteries I've hosted. Lose a bet? Get dressed up in random bits of various costumes!

The tackier the better!

Get a online dating profile, or go in a relationship on social media!

Can you collect them all from the bottom of the pool before the timer runs out?

In candy or dehydrated form

Think you have what it takes to escape being kidnapped? Well, perhaps you do if the kid nappers also buy their duct tape at the dollar store like me. 😂

You're just lucky if it's not a whole tablespoon!

Make up a story on the spot.

Sing a song of my choice! Audience optional.

When genetics didn't help you out and you have to do it old school.

Receive a molasses skin care regime 😂

Maybe it's a back tattoo, or maybe it's a whole new face...

Whether it's cookies, chocolate, or some other random food item... cram it in your mouth like cookie monster and chow down ensuring crumbs and bits of food fly everywhere!

Having to watch any movie or video of my choice. Be it my favourite nerdy TV show, or horrifying internet clips, it was all fair game.

Or play fighting?!

First post-COVID concert in my home town at the time! Included: Aqua, Jenny from Ace of Base, Vengaboys, Eiffel 65, 2 Unlimited, Haddaway, Whigfield, Alice DJ, S‑Club, C+C Music Factory, Simone Denny

Went for my friend Nicole's birthday even though I hate country music! Also featured special guests including Kira Isabella and David James.

Went with my friend Devon for this blast from the past at Grey Eagle Resort & Casino.

Took my friend Sara Titus to the Dangerous Woman Tour at Rogers Arena, BC for Ariana Grande as she was a huge fan!

I had no idea she was even performing, and barely knew who she was at the time. But apparently she was just out of a dentist appointment and decided to throw a free parking lot concert at Metrotown in Burnaby!

One of the most disappointing concerts of my life. I loved BNL growing up, but they had replaced Steven Page as lead singer on February 24, 2009 with Ed Robertson. His inflection on my favourite songs was way off. He was clearly trying to put his own spin on things.

Live performance with Andrea Kirkham. I think we were front row?

So I checked it out, maybe?

Piano set with Andrea Kirkham.

World tour with my friend Stefanie Loh. We made it all the way to the front!

Went on a date with this girl Busie that I met while living in Ireland!

Classics from my past...

Went with Dana Killick - an old high school friend!

My very first concert ever! And still my favourite band to this day. I remember almost leaving half way through because I didn't realize they'd play more songs after the first intermission. 😂 On top of that, I was absolutely terrified because I didn't drink alcohol or dance. Luckily, I didn't buy floor tickets, and we had nosebleed seats!

Went with my friend Jay McKenzie, who was also a huge fan. This was the second time I saw them.

I think I lost a bet and had to go to this one... but I went with my friend Christina Moonen from Kelowna on a fast-paced Vancouver road trip.

Pop-rock set; with Sara Watson

Alt-rock tour with Angie Lamb.

"Tunes Against Tuition Fees Concert Series" according to my photos. My records said 2009... which seems right, but I can't find any evidence this actually happened online! AI seems to think it was from their "Hot Hot Heat" series, but I can't validate that either!

With my friend Jess; opening act was Craig Stickland.

With Adam & Andria. Couldn't believe the awesome indoor pyrotechnics.

Went with my friend Kortni to the Blue Grotto in Kamloops!

Featuring Cheap Trick and Shaman’s Harvest.

Rock show; feat. I Mother Earth

At Jason Parks' Crown & Thieves

With my friend Kat and her sister Stef.

I bolted up to Kamloops to see this guy because about 15 years prior some random bus driver said I looked like him. WTF?!

Featuring James “Super Chikan” Johnson, Bombino, Shuffle Demons, Cold Specks, Hollerado, and Delhi 2 Dublin.

Indie rock performance

Went with my friend Brittany.

Ska-punk/rock joint set

Took the ferry from Victoria to see her. Almost front row! Why? Umm... good question. 😂

Jazz fusion at King Eddy

R&B/pop tour

Date night with Hannah Anderson

Collaborative set

He hadn't changed one bit!

I had no idea who this guy was, and only went because my friends were going! Probably one of my least favourite concerts ever.

Overnight in a luxury Bedouin desert campsite in Jordan near Petra.

Add this to my list of horrors I wish I could undo. I was completely oblivious before I went in that they actually slowly killed the bull during the fight by stabbing it. Shawna and I couldn't take it after 30 minutes, and left.

Carrying the cross, like Jesus did, up the Via Dolorosa.

One of the easiest art projects that I love to host!

One of the most traumatic experiences I've had abroad. The funeral ritual in Tana Toraja where they sacrifice buffalo for a good sendoff to the afterlife. It's known as the most expensive place in the world to die.

My very first splatter painting experience just like I'm sure Jackson Pollock must've done it!

Where to begin? A dream since I was a child. Sumo wrestling, matcha, a tea ceremony, ninja and samurai class, taiko drumming, geisha shows, cherry blossoms, anime, onsens, shrines, castles, Mario Kart, fire and funeral ritual at a temple stay in Koyasan, and beyond. Endless moments of beautiful cultural heritage.

According to the Gospels (e.g., Matthew 21, Mark 11), Jesus rode a donkey to fulfill the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9. So, why not me? Getting tarted up a bit before heading to Jerusalem!

Visited local villages.

Once in 2014, and once in 2024!

I was technically raised catholic, and it felt right to get baptized on the Jordan river at Yardenit... even if I'm not religious anymore.

Diverse Himalayan route.

A two day jungle campout for my 41st birthday to see orangutans at the northern tip of Indonesia.

Historic pilgrimage route.

Scenic coastal hike among vibrant villages.

Iconic trek to Everest Base Camp.

Sierra Nevada scenic trek.

Coastal cliffside trek.

Geothermal highland trek.

Spectacular trek in Fiordland.

Pristine wilderness trek.

Long-distance trail from Mexico to Canada.

Alternative route to Machu Picchu instead of the more common Inca Trail.

Iconic Patagonian route.

Alpine circuit around Mont Blanc.

Not quite the Alta Via 1 classic high-altitude route, but the best I could do with the time I had!

Rock-cut temples built by Ramses II.

Ancient citadel with iconic temples.

Buddhist rock-cut cave monuments.

A magnificent palace and fortress complex built by the Nasrid sultans, celebrated for its intricate Moorish design and lavish gardens.

Largest religious monument; Khmer masterpiece.

The largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp, serving as a solemn memorial to the atrocities of the Holocaust.

An ancient Mesopotamian city famed for its legendary Hanging Gardens, the Ishtar Gate, and its influential role in law and culture.

Ancient city with thousands of temples.

Renowned as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, Bethlehem is a pivotal pilgrimage site marked by the Church of the Nativity.

The world’s largest Buddhist temple from the 8th–9th century, renowned for its intricate relief panels and over 500 Buddha statues.

An ancient Phoenician city-state renowned for its maritime prowess and cultural legacy, which later became Rome’s formidable rival.

Mayan pyramid and ceremonial center.

Ancient Roman amphitheater.

Sacred site and oracle of Apollo.

Cave complex with diverse monuments.

An ancient Greek city later dominated by Rome, renowned for its grand ruins including the Temple of Artemis and the Library of Celsus.

Imperial palace complex of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Oldest known megalithic temple complex.

Limestone statue with lion body and human head.

Massive fortification across northern China.

A medieval city famed for its impressive dry-stone constructions, it was the heart of a powerful indigenous kingdom in Southern Africa.

Roman defensive fortification.

Originally built in 537 AD as a Byzantine cathedral and later converted into a mosque, it is celebrated for its massive dome and magnificent mosaics.

Also known as the Atomic Bomb Dome, this preserved ruin stands as a poignant reminder of nuclear devastation and a call for peace.

Often cited as one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Jericho is renowned for its ancient fortifications and pioneering urban development.

A sacred city to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, featuring iconic sites such as the Western Wall and the Dome of the Rock.

Minoan palace and cultural hub.

Famed for its 11 rock-hewn churches carved into volcanic rock during the 12th–13th centuries, a masterpiece of Ethiopian architecture and pilgrimage.

Famous Paleolithic cave paintings.

Remnants of an ancient center of learning.

Revered as the birthplace of the Buddha, Lumbini is a sacred pilgrimage site marked by the Maya Devi Temple and ancient monuments commissioned by Emperor Ashoka.

Inca citadel high in the Andes.

The holiest city in Islam, home to the Kaaba in the Grand Mosque, and the spiritual center for millions of Muslims worldwide.

Famed for its cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Puebloans, offering a unique glimpse into pre-Columbian life in the American Southwest.

Famous for nearly 1,000 monolithic statues carved by the Rapa Nui people, these enigmatic figures exemplify Polynesian artistry and mystery.

One of the principal cities of the Indus Valley Civilization, noted for its advanced urban planning and sophisticated drainage systems circa 2500 BC.

Revered in Greek mythology as the home of the gods, Mount Olympus symbolizes the divine and was central to ancient Greek religion and culture.

Traditionally believed to be the mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments, Mount Sinai holds profound religious significance for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

Enormous geoglyphs etched into the desert, the Nazca Lines are best appreciated from the air and remain one of archaeology’s greatest enigmas.

Known as the "Cradle of Humankind," Olduvai Gorge has yielded some of the earliest hominin fossils and stone tools, shedding light on human evolution.

Transformed by King Louis XIV into an extravagant symbol of absolute monarchy, the Palace of Versailles is famed for its Hall of Mirrors and lavish gardens.

Ancient Silk Road city.

Ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire.

Ancient rock-cut Nabataean city.

Roman city preserved by volcanic ash.

Ancient Egyptian pyramids; monumental tombs.

Prehistoric monument of standing stones.

A white marble mausoleum built in 1648 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, celebrated for its exquisite symmetry and enduring beauty as a symbol of love.

A vast pre-Columbian city famous for its monumental pyramids—the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon—and the Avenue of the Dead.

Clay soldiers guarding an emperor's tomb.

Classical temple dedicated to Athena.

An ancient Mayan city set in the rainforest, Tikal is celebrated for its towering pyramids and rich archaeological heritage.

Once a thriving center of trans-Saharan trade and Islamic scholarship, Timbuktu is celebrated for its ancient mosques and manuscript libraries.

A massive sandstone monolith of deep cultural significance to the Anangu people, known for its dramatic color changes at sunrise and sunset.

Royal tombs of Egyptian pharaohs, and Thebes which has temples such as Karnak and Luxor.

The spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church, home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and priceless art collections.

Friend from Kelowna.

Hosted events for Belfast social club.

Father; passed away from cancer.

Growing up, I was an introvert, the shy kid. This wasn't necessarily due to a lack
of internal aptitude, but rather because I was very content being on my own. I
remember my mom having to go to lengths to try and bring friends to the house
so I'd play with them. Darryl and our high school buddies even walked over from
Brookswood to Murrayville once, and I told my mom to pretend I wasn't home
because I was so glued to my computer! I chose my friends very carefully, and
those that I did, I kept deep within my inner circle.

Darryl passed away last month and today is his celebration of life, so here are
some of my favourite memories.

Darryl has always been, with the strongest of convictions: Darryl. This is what
made him special to me. I knew the kind of man who he was and could rely on
him in any situation. Even without Darryl in the room, I could easily project his
voice in my head and dream up something he would've said if he was there.

We met in high school, and I quickly commandeered his regular lunch crew
sitting near the drama room. I was Mac & he was PC, but we both rallied at the
same political conferences together in high school, both struggled with French,
and both believed in a better world. We even joined community initiatives like my
friend Piotr's Biosphere Project, and his family even took Piotr in during a time of
hardship.

We both had a burning entrepreneurial spirit, and love for competition. Darryl
never turned down a chance to play RISK, Settlers of Catan, or even host after-
school Warcraft tournaments with our friends. And more than anything we both
vivaciously loved wine and food. From the days when Darryl would join me in
home-brewing wine, even trying the probably near-toxic juice I used to make, to
the days when he'd decided to become a professional wine tour guide.

I secretly revelled in throwing new activities at Darryl outside his usual interests,
eager to see his reaction and perhaps catch him off guard. Yet, he consistently
embraced all of them with enthusiasm, even joining me in karaoke sessions!

Darryl was not just a mentor to me but to everyone grazing his energy. His
guidance extended from working with children and volunteering in Africa, to
teaching me fundamental life skills like the proper way to stoke a fire. He firmly
believed in strengthening his community, not just himself. My spice cupboard,
under his influence, began with salt and peppers and evolved into an extensive
array of flavors.

Darryl never turned down a chance to join for my Spontaneous Cook Nights if he
knew he'd have a chance to haul out his briquette BBQ or sit by mine.
Spontaneous Cook Night is an event where I'd invite the masses over, and they'd
have no idea what they were cooking, or who was invited, until they showed up.
Darryl was a depth seeker, and valued the deepest of connections. He wasn't
about the party life, and would often sit by with a glass of wine, and have deeper,
quieter, moment of conversation with those who passed by.

Despite going separate ways after high school, him to UBC and me to CDIS in
Burnaby, we stayed in touch through all of my moves, years, and friends later.
We never, not once, had any major fights which tore deeply into our friendship.
Through over 25 years, even with our growing differences, we also found new
ways to grow together. Any time a normal person would've gotten angry, Darryl
got passionate and his charismatic booming voice was sure to be heard by all
around him. Darryl could talk to anyone about anything — he was incredibly well
educated on a huge spectrum of topics — and could easily, politely, even do so if
he adamantly disagreed with the topic.

Today, I reflect on the profound influence he had on my life. As a person who
meets countless new people every year, I've never encountered anyone who
matched Darryl's unique blend of wisdom, compassion, and vivacity. He helped
transform a reserved, introverted kid into someone brimming with confidence,
purpose, and eventually balance.

Darryl was more than a friend; his spirit illuminated the path for all who knew him.
His passion for life, his unyielding commitment to bettering our world, and his
remarkable ability to connect deeply with everyone he met leaving an enduring,
inspirational, legacy.

Friend from Kelowna.

Dad’s parents; Irish & English heritage. Grandpa passed away March 23, 2018.

Mom’s parents; Scottish & Polish heritage. Grandpa passed March 8, 2003 and grandma March 15, 2010.

For those of you who know me well, you know that I'm a friend to almost anyone who walks through my door through the thousands of events that I've held. However, it's a very rare occasion when I have the capacity to open my life to a new close friend. Jordan Fotsch was one of those. In fact, I don't think there is anyone in Calgary I spent more time with than Jordan.

She was the woman behind the scenes at so many Adventure Calgary events. She helped me setup, take down, organize, plan and orchestrate countless cook nights, art nights, events at pubs, and beyond. She was my go-to handywoman for house repairs, odd jobs, and was even dragged through testing my Career Lottery board game.

She was a fiercely passionate person with a stern, yet deeply loving and protective side. Those few she let into her life were hers to protect and cherish. I was fortunate enough to be one of those. Her bleeding heart and empathy are rare traits in today's world. She will be missed deeply.

It was just over one month ago that she passed away in Calgary. I recently traveled to Japan, and this morning, during a memorial service at a temple in Koyasan, I held her—and others close to me who have recently passed—in my thoughts.

I'm unable to attend her service at Evan J Strong (3625 12 St NE, Calgary, AB) this March 28 1 pm - 2:30pm. For those who knew her, please attend and pay your respects. Her mother has launched an online campaign to raise funds to cover costs. If you'd like to contribute please contact me and I will pass along the details.

Regular social club member Lourdes Pelayo Ramirez (Lulu Peram)

Very close Calgary friend; published author; avid hiker.

Close friend from Kamloops.

Ross had been a friend of mine for two and a half decades. The longest active friendship in my entire life.

Spiritual gravity is a concept I’ve believed in for a very long time. Consciously or not, at times in our lives we bend the fabric surrounding our existence and capture others into our orbits.

Whether this is in times of great need, or times of great happiness. Ross fell into my orbit during a period of immense loneliness as a young child. He was new to town, and I had been an outsider for many years after my friend Kristian had moved away at the beginning of grade one.

In life, the gravity of others will push and pull. Some people roll in and out of your life as they get caught up in the orbits of others over time. Ross and I were permanently entangled. A friendship that could never fade or be broken.

He was always laughing, goofing around, and created an all-inclusive atmosphere of positive energy. His comedic approach to life could be easily felt radiating from him if you walked into the same room. He was an immediate hit with everyone in our class.

We started hanging out and investing countless hours into Bomberman, Duck Hunt, Spider-Man Cartoon Maker, and all of the other cornerstones of nerd life in the 90s.

After taking computer lessons, we toyed around making some pretty cheesy black & white computer games in an app called HyperCard. While it wasn’t money making at the time, it later turned into a business and then my full time career. Ross continued to drop in on numerous projects as the years progressed. From spending weeks making the perfect voice overs for Mystery Island — and an equally huge number of hilarious bloopers — to tweaking the gameplay and sound effects to perfection on Pandora’s Pests — an attempt at recreating a classic arcade game from our youth.

Despite the distance when I eventually moved away to Kamloops and then Kelowna, we did more than just stay in touch. Ross would come up and excitedly participate and enhance whatever disaster I had planned for us!

From nearly winding up in the hospital after a fall from brutally steep hike in Kamloops, co-hosting a St. Patrick’s Day party, spontaneously taking off to Nelson, BC for a formal costumed dinner in a Victorian style hotel, to zip lining across rapids to a non-commercial hidden hot springs in the Kootenays, sneaking away for a fishing weekend at Mile High Resort, and volunteering as my free slave labour for help with my rental property repairs. He was a fiercely dedicated and loyal man who would stick by your side for whatever you had planned. Even if that meant consuming the entire isle on one of our multi hundred dollar shopping sprees in the Superstore candy isle.

But, let’s be really honest, far far too many hours spent randomly driving around town on the phone chatting about love and relationships

A huge part of our friendship was the comedy that revolved around trolling each other for laughs. Like the time Ross came up for my birthday and wanted to make sure no one else had encroached on the best friend position. He dug up an old high school year book picture of me, and showed up with it printed front and center on a T-Shirt he refused to take off all weekend. Or there was the time he helped beta test a board game I made called Career Lottery. During the game, he had lost a bet where he had to finish his current beer every time he would lap around the starting space. What he didn’t realize until the end was that I kept refilling his bottle every time he’d leave the room.

Ross was a seeker of quality, and genuine relationships. He never had the time for the nuances of contemporary culture and always struck off on a path of his own — a unique and vibrantly creative energy that naturally captivated everyone into his gravity.

He will always continue to remind me of his presence courtesy of so many of his mannerisms that I’ve picked up over time.

I’ll never be able to find another best friend who intuitively understood my soul like Ross.

Volunteered for a week on the Siyafunda Reserve in South Africa which helps animal conservation.

Volunteering at an archeological dig near Tel es Sultan (Jéricho) to try and prove the biblical story of Joshua.

Contributed $250 to Gabrielle-kayla Sawatzky in support for her shaving her head for breast cancer awareness.

Volunteered hundreds of hours at the Calgary Zoo before discovering its dark side and swiftly left.

Donated $1,000 to help a financially struggling mother avoid launching a career into a less than altruistic field.

Helping cover the medical costs for Jasper's congenital heart disease.

Stef was in need of serious dental work, and it was way beyond her price range as she didn't have any benefits. I did everything in my power to search for solutions. Eventually finding a dentist through all my connections willing to help (Sophia Lata Dahia), we got her started on the right track at no cost!

My friend's cat had to undergo emergency urinary surgery, and the bill ran into the thousands. I did what I could to contribute to her GoFundMe.

Cassandra Johnson's daughter fell ill with cancer, and I contributed $500 to help cover their medical costs.

Raised over $1,000 in funds through events for food banks in Kelowna and Calgary.

Donated $500 to cover a family’s funeral costs.

Provided a free dinner for health care workers at a Greek restaurant.

Raised awareness during the 2018 civic election and supported the Journey Home project with my events in years that followed ($2 per hike attendee).

Contributed over C$1,100 (PHP 45,000) to help a family cover the costs of repairing their home post-typhoon.

Donated $5,000 to Priscila Medina for a life-saving insulin pump.

At my own expense, in the hundreds of dollars, I volunteered to host the after-party for Alexandra Kosachukova's candlelight concert in town, and did her introductions at the show. It was terrifying as I was expected to do it without a printed speech!

Organized a group to strike off into City Park in Kelowna to pickup trash.

Donated $5,000 to Kim so that she could relocate from Clearwater to Kamloops and launch her photography business. The funds went towards furnishing her apartment, and buying the initial photography equipment.

My ex girlfriend's new boyfriend developed a severe brain tumour, and while he did eventually recover, he was out of commission for a prolonged period. I leapt at the chance to donate to their GoFundMe.

An old childhood friend reached out, in fact, my best friend at the time. He was in dire straits and desperately needed to cover his rent, so I took care of it for him instead of just throwing a few bucks his way.

Donated $10,000 in advertising after moving away from the valley to promote my old group, to ensure it would succeed in my temporary absence under the people I appointed to be in charge. Unfortunately, upon my return, they had seized control of the group and refused to reinstate me. My investment turned against me. One of the most heartbreaking experiences of my life.

Hosted over 2,000 events at cost, or often at a loss, to build community. Hikes, art nights, communal kitchen cook nights, team skill building games, custom escape rooms, you name it.

Lent $25,000 to my girlfriend at the time so she could avoid paying interest on her student loans.

The second best friend of my life, whom I had spent years with, moved away to the USA. I don't remember exactly how I reacted, but I ended up staying close to family and didn't branch out much for many years after. He came back to visit once when I was in high school, but we've lost touch ever since.

I met Ross in grade four, a new kid in town. For the first time since kindergarten, I had a best friend. We hung out all the time and spent countless hours using Spiderman Cartoon Maker! Recognizing my passion for computers, my mom hired a local kid to give me lessons. He introduced me to HyperCard.

I created my first black-and-white HyperCard computer game, a point-and-click adventure where players navigate a spaceport maze to launch a ship. This project ignited my passion for software development.

I uploaded some HyperCard games I had made. I hoped someone would send me $2 for registration but didn't think much of it. I’m pretty sure I put them on the InfoMac archives.

My first sale came when someone sent $2 cash via postal mail for a game license. I wanted to deposit it, but my mom encouraged me to frame it. She knew it would be special one day.

My mother left my father, and we moved in with my grandparents. I spent the summer playing on Hotline. Without my father’s oppressive attitude, my confidence began to grow.

I created an online portal for my apps. Using Kagi as a credit card processor (they didn’t know I was 16), I made my first $5 alarm clock app sale on May 27th. This started my software business.

My mom took my brother and me to Hawaii. I spent most of the trip in internet cafes sending license codes and updating my apps. When not there, I relaxed on the beach with my Palm Pilot knock-off.

I met my first real girlfriend. Although my grades dipped slightly, I still managed to make the honor roll.

I graduated high school and received a scholarship for having the highest GPA in my field of study.

My girlfriend and I moved to Burnaby for an intensive new media program. I breezed through it but felt it was overpriced and under-delivered.

Started internet marketing career at a high rise in downtown Vancouver. My boss had his hands into everything. The light and the dark. And then he mysteriously passed away. 😖

Completed 1-year intensive program at the Center for Digital Imaging and Sound.

My girlfriend secretly entered me in a radio contest, and we won a trip to New York to meet Kylie Minogue. It was my first adult trip abroad without my parents.

Purchased my very first piece of real estate! A two bedroom condo at Village Green in Burnaby. I think I owned this one for less than two years, and was stoked when I made so much flipping it.

My dad and I had our first real fight as adults over the money I lent to my ex-girlfriend for her tuition. Our relationship ended that day and never recovered.

I quit my internet marketing job to focus full-time on my software business. I sold my first condo for a profit and bought another near my mom.

I returned to Hawaii solo for my 22nd birthday, escaping a night out of drinking by going on a true adventure. A mysterious stormy beach camp night encounter still haunts me today. Ask me about that sometime.

After years of being terrified to drive, I finally bit the bullet and took 2 solid weeks of driver training. And boom! Fully approved on the first attempt.

After a breakup, I attended my first house party, tried alcohol, dyed my hair purple, embraced punk/grunge style, and shifted my music taste to Green Day and late 90s rock.

A friend and I created a board game combining elements of Life, Monopoly, and The Sims. Players strive to win at life by earning points in various categories. It's now available online as a free print-at-home download.

I opened my own internet cafe without proper feasibility studies. It lasted about three months before I closed it, realizing the industry was fading.

Flush with cash from a very successful year with my software business, plus a new girlfriend from outside of Kamloops, I move to Kelowna. I keep my Kamloops house, and it becomes my first rental property! One of countless to follow. As the years that would follow, the financial success that I found through real estate completely outshone everything I ever earned from my software business! It provided me the financial stability to know that I could enjoy life without having to worry about the minutia of day-to-day bills.

I started a hiking club in the Okanagan, offering free weekly hikes and later expanding to other social events. It grew into the tens of thousands, earning media features. In parallel, I launched a general social club where I host cook offs, paint nights, board game events, road trips, and much more. Most of these events are either done at-cost or at a loss at my own expense for the sake of building community.

I joined a Groupon trek to Machu Picchu, embracing an Indiana Jones-style adventure. Traveling where English wasn't common no longer scared me. I launched AdventureJosh.com to blog future trips.

Tried emigrating to New Zealand (till Jan 2014).

Conquered fear of skydiving.

Launched travel blog "Adventure Josh"; although my worldly travel and inspiration began with Peru in 2012.

Left abusive friendships and started over. The resulting aftermath, pioneered by Steven Benjamin and Jasmin Brown of Kelowna, was almost 10 years of harassment from third parties based on the dramatic fabrications about how things ended with a recent relationship, and my overall lifestyle. Fed up, and looking for an escape, my adventures into regular world travel began! Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Turks & Caicos, and the UK were some of my first trips.

I traveled to Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, China, Finland, Israel, Jordan, Egypt, India, and Nepal. While
in Israel I volunteered on an archaeological dig. Later that year, I filmed a travel video in India—a grueling journey that opened my eyes to global inequities.

I moved to Vancouver Island with hopes of new adventures, got a hair transplant, yet shortly returned to the Okanagan hoping to enact positive change. After a brief foray into politics, my best friend Ross died of an overdose. I took time away to grieve and reflect.

I moved to Belfast with a UK Ancestry Visa but left after three months due to unfriendly attitudes and harsh weather. Considering another UK city, I was hindered by gout, making it hard to host hikes.

I road-tripped through Italy, finishing the last of the 7 Wonders, and learned Final Cut Pro to release my second travel video. Italy became a favorite country. I followed this up by volunteering at an animal reserve in South Africa.

I settled in Alberta, started new clubs, and looked forward to hiking the Rockies. Then COVID-19 hit, ending any plans to use my UK Visa again.

Reconnected with half-sister from dad’s side who I was forbidden to speak to for the longest time.

I volunteered hundreds of hours at a local zoo but was horrified by the treatment of animals and staff. The experience left a bitter taste in my mouth.

Father passed away from cancer.

My father passed away while I was in Greece. Although we were not close, it caused me to reflect deeply. I extended my Europe trip to two months and 11 countries, traveling solo on what I once thought would be a honeymoon itinerary.

My best friend Darryl died in a car accident. Of my long-term childhood friends, only four remain, scattered worldwide. May they all outlive me.

I had been ready to settle down and get married for almost a decade. I believed I’d finally met the woman I could propose to, only to see my father’s familiar shadows of outwardly abusive bipolar depression in her. We went from the most amazing relationship of my life to a nightmare within a week. Recognizing the pattern, I chose self-respect over passion and excitement, broke free, and kept moving forward.

As I neared 40, I promised myself that if I remained single, I’d step back from hosting events and invest that energy into my career and personal life. I kept this promise. I chose to bring that chapter fully to a close in October 2024. Though it felt bittersweet, it also brought a sense of relief and renewal, paving the way for a future more aligned with who I’ve become.

After binging How I Met Your Mother, I noticed uncanny parallels to my own life—even old rumors about me seemed lifted straight from the show’s scripts. The absurdity made me laugh, but it also nudged me toward a new chapter. I sold my last investment rental property, escaped winter for the Philippines, and embraced a nomadic, entrepreneurial existence. Indonesia, Taiwan, and Japan followed for a complete snowbird experience of six months abroad. Now, I run my travel page like a business, value my health and work more deeply, and save the wild nights for moments that truly matter.

A striking stratovolcano in the Andes popular with climbers and a major hazard in South America.

One of the world’s most active volcanoes, renowned for its nearly continuous lava flows.

Known for its cataclysmic 1883 eruption that had global climatic effects.

One of the largest active volcanoes on Earth by volume with an expansive shield structure.

Europe’s highest and one of its most active volcanoes, continuously shaping Sicily’s landscape.

An iconic stratovolcano revered in Japanese culture for its symmetrical cone shape.

Africa’s highest peak and a dormant volcano celebrated for its majestic silhouette.

One of Indonesia’s most active and hazardous volcanoes, frequently affecting nearby communities.

Famous for its dramatic 1980 eruption that transformed Washington State’s landscape.

Famously responsible for the AD 79 eruption that buried Pompeii and Herculaneum.

One of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes, renowned for its continuous lava fountaining.

Unique for erupting carbonatite lava—the only known volcano to do so.

Highly active and dangerous due to its proximity to densely populated areas and frequent eruptions. Very hard to visit as a foreign national as you need permission from the PH Air Force a month in advance.

An active volcano near Mexico City with significant cultural importance and frequent eruptions.

A persistently active volcano dominating the Kagoshima region, closely monitored for safety.

Site of a massive prehistoric eruption that created its stunning caldera and influenced Mediterranean history. Destroyed the city of Akrotiri, which is rumoured to be Atlantis.

Nicknamed the “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean” for its almost continuous, small-scale eruptions.

The world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall, plunging dramatically in Canaima National Park.

A transboundary waterfall system celebrated for its multi-tiered cascades and stunning scenery.

Considered Europe’s most powerful waterfall (Dettifoss), renowned for its raw, thunderous force.

A majestic cascade spanning the border, surrounded by lush rainforest.

A powerful and isolated waterfall noted for its impressive height and volume.

Iconic waterfalls straddling the US-Canada border, famous for their thundering cascades.

A series of cascading waterfalls and lakes known for their crystal-clear water and vibrant hues.

A dramatic waterfall in Fiordland National Park with a picturesque setting.

Known as "The Smoke That Thunders," these falls boast an incredible spray and roar.

The highest waterfall in Yosemite National Park, celebrated for its seasonal flow and breathtaking scenery.