A single parent off the beaten track
Finding myself a full-time single parent with my 3 wonderful children in 2016, I had 2 choices: look ahead or stay frozen in time. As someone who loves mountains so much, the similarity with my situation struck me. At the foot of the massif, it may seem insurmountable, but I assure you that one step at a time, we will get there. Many say that I was a superwoman, but I believe that when faced with great challenges, human beings find their strength.
It started with drawings of otters paddleboarding and bears mountain biking. It occupied my mind positively while there was chaos around me. Quietly, these drawings ended up on fabrics to make clothes for my children. That’s when my “fourth child” was born: Peakbwa! Was it a good idea to start my business while I was in the middle of a separation? Initially I thought no, but finally, definitely! This project saved me, it allowed me to keep the focus on the positive.
Less is more
For me that means focusing on the essentials. We must learn as humans to let go of situations beyond our control and insist, become aware of the positive. Just like in the outdoors, energy is precious, and you have to use it for what really matters.
The day I found myself alone with my tribe, I was so sad at the idea of not going camping that I learned to drive, park and secure my tent trailer alone. It took me a week to prepare everything. My goal: to spend 2 nights in an unserviced camp full of bugs with 3 explorers under 5 years old.
We came out of this adventure dirty and devoured by black flies… but so happy! It was important to me, camping with the family: so I did everything I could to go. It wasn't easy, but I was proud to have taken on this challenge. During a separation, even children are encouraged to develop their autonomy more quickly. They impress me day by day with their mutual assistance, their understanding, their patience, their initiatives, their desire to help and their resourcefulness. There is good; you just have to find it.
Nothing ventured, nothing gained
From a young age, we learn to get up when we fall. I like the African proverb which says that grass does not grow where everyone passes. The trick is to get them outside from a young age so that they learn and enjoy playing with branches and stones.
Come on, take out your baby carrier and go play in the mountains! Of course, this is different (and requires more effort) than watching your child hypnotized in front of a screen; but we are immediately happy to see them playing outside rather than being very active. My children would tell you that camping is freedom! My third was 2 weeks old when he was introduced to camping. At the age of 3 months, he had already done it 6 times!
You have to stay flexible with the routine. If they don't take naps, they will fall asleep easily after a day outside. Plan outings with other families. On hikes, children will challenge each other and push ahead instead of complaining that they are tired. Don't be afraid to take your baby out of his cozy nest, the most beautiful memories await you somewhere... in the BWA!
If you are a parent who loves to move and, like me, hates wasting time shopping, you will probably like the idea of PEAKBWA clothing. It's a great alternative to overconsumption of clothing among toddlers.
If you would like to discover more about my little story, I invite you to follow my adventures:
https://www.facebook.com/peakbwa/
https://www.instagram.com/peakbwa/?hl=fr
Jacinthe Plamondon
Founder Peakbwa