Nelson

Over Spring Break, we were given the fabulous opportunity to hop on a bus with 16 other players and their families and make the long journey from Powell River to Nelson for Bantam Rep Hockey Provincials. Jackson was an AP for the team and played several times with them over the course of the season and was extra thrilled to be asked to join the team to head to Provincials. We had never been to Nelson so we were also excited, not only for Jackson getting to play in Provincials, but for the chance to check out the town after hearing so much about it over the years. 

We were fortunate to stay in a hotel on the main street so were able to walk everywhere once we arrived and to be honest, it was good to get off the bus and move our feet. The weather really co-operated too. There was still snow on the ground in areas but none of it fell while we were there. It was cold but clear. Perfect really. The arena was only about a 10 minute easy walk away from our hotel. 

We had a wonderful time exploring Nelson and hanging out with other families. We certainly ate well and got a lot of exercise every single day. We found the house and the fire station where Roxanne was filmed. Lily and a couple of other little sisters got Manicures at the Hume Spa. We joined the team and a few of the families for a trip to the Ainsworth Hot Springs. I sat in the warm restaurant above the springs with a beverage and food and let Neil and the kids enjoy. :) Nelson is famous for their shoe stores and we went in them all. I came home with a new pair of Blundstones from Vince DeVito's. Great people and great service!! We joined the team for several suppers and had lots of good eats on our own. Nelson has no shortage of great food options. We especially enjoyed Cantina del Centro and El Taco - both mexican, delicious and recommended. Others raved about the coffee. We don't drink it so I can't say but we did enjoy other tasty hot beverages from Oso Negro and Empire. 

 Jackson was fully included in all events so it meant that he was a busy guy while we were there but he didn't care. He was so happy to be part of it all. He had shifts in all games and in the end, came home with a bronze medal and an experience he will never forget.