Hi I’m Rachel! An outdoor mama who has a passion for hiking, fitness, and all things healthy livin’! Better LIVIN is about living your best life.
For almost ten years I was your typical Weekend Warrior. Monday- Friday I was chained to a desk and computer, dreaming of the weekend and what adventure I could fit in to my schedule.
I started this blog as an outlet to remind myself that I had a have a fun, adventurous life outside the typical 9-5. When I turned 30 I was FINALLY brave enough to quit my job and return to university to pursue my degree in Physical Education.
I graduated in December 2017 and currently work as a substitute teacher, waiting for that PE job of my dreams to open up.
Sports are so important for our children. The confidence, the healthy habits, and the friendships I had growing up were all due to my participation in sports, to having a strong body, to being a part of a team. I can’t wait to find a job as a gym teacher and instill these in students. I also can’t wait to start coaching!! I want to build a killer track & field program.
OUTSIDE LOVE
Living in Southern Alberta so close to the mountains is awesome. I spent a year working in Waterton Lakes National Park which is one of the most beautiful places in the world, I spend every second I can there.
My main outdoor activity is hiking. It’s free, it’s fun, it gets you outside.
SPORTS & FITNESS
A former collegiate track & field athlete and competitive cheerleader, fitness is a priority. I have picked up a few new sports since leaving college; distance
running, softball, and curling.
It’s tough staying fit when you live in Canada. Most of the year is cold and dark, not exactly ideal running weather. Ever notice how many health bloggers are from warm climates? But it’s a balance I’ve been able to find with snow boarding, snow shoeing, and Bikram yoga.
MY FAMILY
I live with my husband Ryan, our sons Tynan (3) and Logan (1).
After years of trying and tests, we were diagnosed with unexplained infertility and thought IVF was our only option. I went back to school to take a break from the stress and to focus on other things and surprise! In my last semester, after a week and a half of “food poisoning” I found out I was pregnant. My miracle was born in April 2018 and I’m now navigating the new and scary world of motherhood.
Imagine my complete surprise when one month after TyTy turned one, the test said ‘Pregnant’ again!
I’m also step mommy to two wonderful kids, Ryan and Ace who live two doors down from us and play a significant role in our lives. They are THE BEST older siblings to Tynan and watching their bond is so sweet.
Had to say I love your sense of adventure and the scenery captured in your photos is AMAZING! Will look forward to your posts.
Thank you so much! 🙂
I think your absolutely gorgeous too!Dont lose any weight that body is perfect!
Aw thanks Ted! I would still be a hell of a lot happier 15 pounds lighter though.
Hi I just wanted to let you know I’ve nominated you for a Liebster Award! http://confetea.wordpress.com/2013/11/07/nominated-for-liebster-award/
WOW! Thank you so much! That’s amazing!!
I found your stuff while collecting photo images of Led Zeppellin album covers to add to my photo library. I have a motto I had lived by for much of my life: life IS, One Big Adventure. Relationships & Marriages? Same thing. Big Adventure.
All of my travels are in Canada, from Tuktoyuktuk, NWT to the north shore of Lake Erie and from Labrador to Vancouver Island and many places between including Alberta, Saskatchewan(right now), Manitoba, Ontario, & Quebec. I have Nunavit, PEI, Nove Scotia and NFLD left. They’re all amazing place.
Yah to a fellow Canadian female athletes! Rachel your dog’s name is AMAZING and those pictures are beautiful. I’m glad I’m not the only person in the world who enjoys the snow.
We Northern girls have to stick together!! 🙂
Hi there Betty! (Love the name! 😉 ) I love your blog/photography, and nominated you for a Liebster award. I just wanted to recognize you and let you know I think you are pretty awesome!
We Betty’s have to stick together! Thanks for the nomination!!
Dang straight! Have a great day! 🙂
Amazing blog you have here Rachel.My friend Adrien realy loves it and you!
Thanks! I’m glad you and Adrien enjoy the blog! 🙂
Hi i am Twen Nassir, Im very interested not only on your blog, but also, YOU!
Ha ha! Well thank you! 🙂