The fog rested on the forest like a fur coat as we pulled into Natalia and Dave’s White Lake Cabins in Sorrento, BC.
I stepped from the car and felt all sound absorb into the mist like a soundproof room. An owl hooted a greeting and the crackling fire agreed, this is where we were meant to be. Here, nestled beside White Lake in the Shuswap, are four cabins, situated on the hillside.
Each one holds the promise of regeneration and contemplation.
Contributed by: Julian Loewen
With no wifi or even cell reception, our family enters the cozy cabin to begin our 2020 digital detox in hopes to disconnect from the world of social media and the ability to be reached at every moment, in order to reconnect with each other.
Contributed by: Julian Loewen
I scan the cozy interior. Natalia has not overlooked a single detail.
There are board games for all ages, coloring sheets from a local artist, cozy throw blankets for snuggling up on the couch and a fully stocked kitchen for preparing meals together.
Our only concern now is what to do first and how to get all our bucket list items checked off in such a short amount of time. Luckily, our main goal is relaxing!
Contributed by: Julian Loewen
The muscle memory in my hand goes to grab my phone often during the first night. As soon as there is a lull in conversation or activity, my mind pings like a notification to check my phone, and I wonder how many times a day my sons watch me give my attention to it.
I am suddenly aware of my sense of reliance on my digital world and the urge that exists to plug in constantly.
Contributed by: Julian Loewen
A few weeks ago, my four year old said to me, “Mom, I miss you.” I scoffed, being on maternity leave means I spend every waking moment with this little man, how could he miss me? It dawned on me that being around people is not the same as spending intentional, quality time with them.
The love language that my son is most receptive to and exudes is that of quality time. This time spent away from the distraction of our phones was exactly what we all needed to refill our love tanks for 2020.
Contributed by: Julian Loewen
We got down to business with hot chocolate, Connect Four, and a myriad of games that we brought from home.
Puzzles were solved, books were read, tickle fights ensued, and walks to the lake were conquered in spite of the snow that blanketed the property like an old, familiar friend.
Contributed by: Julian Loewen
The next day, we headed for the closest town, Salmon Arm, a place I haven’t explored since my childhood friend lived there. A trip to the wharf was stop number one.
A gorgeous pier stretches for the lake, providing stunning photo ops and a chance to throw snowballs through the soft ice. I watch Ben try with all his might to throw farther than his dad, laughing and thinking that each time he’ll be the victor.
Contributed by: Julian Loewen
Quaint little shops and family-run businesses appeal to all interests as we peruse the little downtown. We work up just enough hunger for the Shuswap Pie Company and coffee from Dolce.
Contributed by: Julian Loewen
Not only is this trip a chance to reconnect as a family, but I also long to reconnect with BC nature and so we travel the picturesque road that runs along the lake towards Herald Provincial Park. Margaret Falls, which was recently reopened after the damage was caused by a landslide, is next on our Shuswap digital detox.
As we enter the park, I notice how the lush greenery looks so foreign in our dry region, as if I’ve suddenly been transported to Vancouver Island. The trees tower as they stretch upwards, the creek meanders beside the easy walking trail.
But it looks like disaster has struck this park again! Fallen trees from the heavy snowfall have smashed some of the new bridges and we climb under them in the eerie silence of the park.
Nature here is stunning and the waterfall isn’t too far away. I can hear its rushing water and our excitement grows. Finally, the falls are within view. A lookout takes you to stand in awe before the powerful waterfall and gaze up at how it has carved out the mountain. It’s one of the most beautiful falls I’ve seen in BC.
Contributed by: Julian Loewen
In the car ride back to our cabin we plan out the evening, Uno with hot apple cider, smokies and s’ mores over the fire and an early bedtime for the kiddies.
Jake and I have charcuterie and merlot plans for the evening, followed by a hot tub.
Contributed by: Julian Loewen
By day three, notifications are my smallest concern, I’m dreading checking my emails, and I just want to stay in my plaid ootd all day.
With hugs and promises to return, we say goodbye to our lovely hosts and head out for more Shuswap family fun. DeMille’s Farm Market is a great place to stockpile local snacks for the road and grab a cup of coffee.
The kids like to look at the animals and there’s a corn maze from July through September so I guess we have to come back!
Contributed by: Julian Loewen
Our last stop is family-owned, Larch Hills Winery to bring back some cool-climate wine to remember this trip by.
This award-winning winery boasts beautiful views of the valley below and unique wines from grapes that know how to survive our BC weather.
It’s time to return home. I smile at the sleeping backseat and my heart is full from the unadulterated time we’ve spent making memories here in the Shuswap.
I’ve never considered it to be a place of attraction during winter but there’s so much we didn’t even have time to do! From sleigh rides and cross-country skiing to ice-fishing and skating, we’ve saved a whole itinerary for next winter. As we step inside our front door, a little tired, a little sad it’s all over, my phone pings. My son looks up at me as I reach for it, “Uno?” He asks. I smile, “I’ll get the snacks.”
Contributed by: Julian Loewen
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