Living in northern Ontario has been an incredible experience - five years of gentle, quiet living in a region of the country where life thrives in a harsh and challenging environment.

From the very first day, I was charmed by the helpful, genuine and kindhearted folks that welcomed me with open arms into their homes and their lives. The village where I made my home embodied the heart of the Canadian spirit - a place with a wonderful sense of community, inclusion and a desire and willingness to help out one's neighbours. I can only hope to live in such a place again!

Sadly, all good things must end. Life takes us in new directions and as one chapter ends, a new one begins. My next chapter will be as different as can be imagined from the old - big city, throngs of people, traffic jams - the hustle and bustle of life in an urban centre. But there is much to look forward to as well - new friends, opportunities and experiences.

A big, warm thank you to all the wonderful people that made living in the north such a great experience, especially to the many folks that I didn't get a chance to see before moving away. You will be greatly missed!

Below are a few images from my time in northern Ontario - a brief glimpse into the events and landscapes of the last five years of my life.