I can’t claim this as my literal back yard—that involves rather more blackberry bushes and rather less seashore—as much as it is my figurative back yard. Living in a harbour city on the coast of British Columbia means that this view is never more than a short walk or drive away. I’m the first to speak plainly of Nanaimo’s shortcomings—and it lacks in many, many ways—but this “livable small city” gave me an opportunity at a life that would have been impossible to achieve in Vancouver. And for that I am grateful.