5 Things Carolynn Can’t Live Without

1. Family and friends

My family and friends are my life. Whether it’s games night, backyard bbqs, guitar jam sessions or dim sum, these are the people that ground me and continue to make me a better person.

2. Documentaries and Autobiographies.

I’m not huge on reading or binge worthy multiple season TV series (sorry Harry Potter and Game of Thrones fans). But what I do enjoy are documentaries and autobiographies. I find it fascinating to see where people got to where they are in life. How they overcame barriers and leaned in rather than lied down (contrary to my favourite comedian Ali Wong- check out her Netflix specials). Most recently I’ve read Phil Knight’s Shoe Dogs (I’m a huge sneaker head and Nike snob), as well as Ronda Rousey, Hope Solo and Abby Wambach’s autobiographies…I think there’s a theme of female athletes here.

3. Sports and competition

Anyone that knows me knows that I’m probably the most competitive person they’ve ever met. Whether it’s squash or soccer games, boards game night, casual mini putting or Nintendo, I will win and we won’t stop until I do. If I lose, people normally give me a 30 minute “alone time” bubble. In addition, anyone that comes across me at the clinic knows I’m a huge fan of both Toronto FC and the San Jose Sharks (random I know…sweet logo though eh?).

4. Travel

Similar to Pete’s parenting style, my parents were big on experiences and memories rather than material items. Therefore, I was pretty fortunate to have been able to travel to many different countries and experience a variety of cultures from a young age. On my most recent big adventure I was able to return to the motherland (China and HK) for 3 weeks to learn more about where my family came from and the lifestyle in the East (it took a while to get used to the squatty potties- good thing I have good hip mobility).

5. Outdoor activities

I hate being cooped up inside. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good rainy day Netflix session, but if there’s a peek-a-boo of sun, you’ll catch me outside throwing a ball around, camping, crushing the boys at spikeball, playing soccer or tennis, hiking the Bruce Trail or in the winter seasons snowboarding!