Birthdays are meant to be remembered, and this year, we chose to celebrate mine not in the noise of the city, but in the embrace of nature. Vedder River Campground in Chilliwack, Fraser Valley became our little haven—a place where time slowed down, laughter echoed by the river, and love glowed as brightly as the campfire.
🏕️ Setting Up by the River
When we arrived, the crisp air carried the scent of pine and flowing water. The river hummed softly in the background as we pitched our tent, each stake pressed firmly into the earth, grounding us in gratitude. It felt like we weren’t just setting up camp—we were preparing for a Fraser Valley camping trip filled with memories that would last a lifetime.
🔥Fish Grilling, Campfire Stories & S'mores
As evening fell, the fire came alive. Flames flickered, sparks floated into the night, and the warmth of the campfire wrapped around us. For dinner, fish sizzled over glowing charcoal, its rustic aroma blending with the crisp evening air. When plates were cleared, the night sweetened with roasted marshmallows—soft, golden, and perfect for s’mores. Laughter rose with every crackle of the fire, making this camping at Vedder River Campground at its finest—simple, magical, and unforgettable.
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| “Grilled fish, campfire warmth, and unforgettable moments at Vedder River Campground. |
🌌 A Birthday Under the Stars
Instead of birthday candles, the universe gifted us a sky filled with stars. I whispered wishes beneath constellations that seemed to shine just for us. The night felt sacred, as if every twinkling light was a blessing, reminding us how small yet significant our lives are in the vastness of the universe.
🌅 Sunrise Walks & River Adventures
Every morning, we took our sunrise walk along the Vedder Rotary Trail. The air was crisp, the river mirrored the awakening sky, and the trail was alive with fitness enthusiasts—cyclists speeding by, runners finding their rhythm, and fellow walkers soaking in the morning calm. It was the perfect way to begin each day in the heart of the Fraser Valley.
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| “Sunrise walks, river moments, mountain views, and quiet mornings at Vedder River Campground. |
Later in the day, we couldn’t resist the call of the water. We swam in the cool, clear Vedder River, letting its refreshing embrace renew our spirits. Around us, others engaged in various outdoor activities in Vedder River—rafting through the currents, gliding smoothly on kayaks, and casting fishing lines with patient anticipation. The river wasn’t just water; it was life, joy, and endless adventure.
🌄 Sunrise Reflections
Morning at Vedder River felt like a gentle awakening of the soul. The golden hues of the sky reflected on the water as we stood together, capturing memories with our lenses, our hearts filled with gratitude. These moments reminded us that life is best when lived slowly, intentionally, and together.
🧘♂️ Del Make it Happen
This Fraser Valley birthday camping adventure wasn’t about escape—it was about finding life again in the beauty of the river, the fire, and the stars above. The river whispered to us that life keeps moving, no matter what. The fire reminded us to keep burning, even when the night feels cold. The trail taught us that every step—big or small—carries us forward. And the simple sweetness of roasted marshmallows showed us that joy is found in the little things.
But it was the stars that stirred something deep within me. Looking up, I felt both so small and so infinite at the same time. And in that silence, I realized: every year we are given, every sunrise we witness, every laugh we share—it’s all a fragile miracle.
When we packed up to leave Vedder River Campground, my heart was heavy, yet overflowing. I wanted to freeze time, to hold onto the sound of the river, the warmth of the fire, the trail beneath our feet, and the love beside me. Because one day, these will not just be memories—they will be treasures that no one can take away.
We don’t wait for tomorrow to live. Don’t wait for “someday” to chase what matters. Hug tighter, laugh louder, watch the sunrise, taste the sweetness, and look up at the stars with wonder. Because life is painfully short, yet breathtakingly beautiful.
And when your story is finally written, may it be so full of love and wonder that even the stars pause to weep.
©️ 2025 Del Cusay