I’ve lived in New Westminster for my entire life, and wouldn’t have it any other way.

The end of June has always signaled the end of the school year, and thus the transition from the frosty winter months and drizzling spring season to the lazy dog days of summer.

We’ve sat through 10 agonizing months of school or work and miserable weather, and the summer is our time to sit back and enjoy.

If this is my time to relax and sit back, why do I feel such a need to get away from it all?

I was born and raised in the city, and it definitely shows. I inhabit a city of shopping malls and pavement, and probably will for the rest of my life. Sometimes, I get this urge to flee the concrete jungle.

Last weekend was such a time, and I drove down to Cultus Lake. Not the waterslides, nor any of the other attractions, but right into the provincial park.

It was just my friends, the lake, what seemed to be over 100 geese, and myself. The water was numbingly cold, the sun often obscured by clouds, and the geese had made it quite clear that we were on their territory.

A cause for concern? Far from it. The fresh air and the rippling water caused a wave of tranquility to sweep over me. Frisbees were tossed, hot dogs were barbecued, and despite my best efforts, skin was sunburned resulting in a terrible tan.

At the end of the day, I had my dose of nature, and was ready to return to my apartment.

The summer is never a boring time in New Westminster or Burnaby. There are many diverse events and attractions for those of all ages, a few of which will be featured in the coming weeks.

Just remember, when you have a spare day, or even a few hours, take an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and see some of the sights of this gorgeous province.

Your city will be there to embrace you with open arms when you get back.

Enjoy the sunshine how nature intended it, and before the rain comes back.

Kevin is a 22-year-old lifetime New Westminster resident who has just graduated from the University of British Columbia with an English Literature degree. He is currently listening to the album Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix by French rock group Phoenix while reading anything by Douglas Coupland.