I Made the Move

Sister’s “boasting about life here” convinced them

Katie, Michael and their two kids, Ernie and Penny Kennedy, had been living in Toronto, but their growing family and growing real estate prices had pushed them out of the city, leaving them looking for a change. Michael is an accountant who was working from home and Katie had given up her job to raise their children so it was the perfect opportunity to make a move.

After visiting family in Powell River, they fell in love with the small, remote town. There seemed to be endless adventures and places to explore.

They made the move across the country which had its challenges during a pandemic and are now thriving in their new life. The kids are enjoying making new friends at daycare and Katie has a new job as the office manager at Royal LePage.

Why did you choose to move to qathet?

Katie • We wanted a slower pace of life to raise our children in and more outdoor adventures to explore. Powell River was also much more affordable for a growing family than Toronto.

When? Where from?

Katie • We moved here at the end of October 2021 from Toronto, Ontario.

What surprised you once you moved here?

Katie • How welcoming everyone is! They let you go ahead of them when driving and at the grocery store. Everyone we have encountered has been so great. We were also surprised at how many people moved here from other places. FROM 416 TO 604: Penny, Katie, Michael and Ernie Kennedy traded Toronto for qathet last fall.

What made you decide to move to qathet?

Katie • We had visited my sister and her family a few times and fell in love with the remote, small-town vibe. Life seemed so much simpler here. There was so much to explore and the weather allows you to do it year-round.

Where is your favourite place in qathet?

Katie • Willingdon Beach – there is a beach, a playground, a great trail and a great view. The perfect place to bring the kids that the adults can enjoy too.

How did you first hear about qathet?

Katie • My sister moved here nine years ago because her friend from university (now husband!) had moved here with his family. She was always boasting about life here.

What would make qathet a nicer community?

Katie • More affordable housing for people in need.

What aspect of your previous community do you think would benefit qathet?

Katie • Bike lanes! Toronto has been restructuring their roads to safely include bikers for the past few years and I think it could be adapted here as well. Also, more multiunit buildings that are exclusively for rentals.

What challenges did you face in trying to make a life for yourself here?

Katie • We had to wait quite a while for our stuff to arrive, but luckily we had family to live with while we waited. There were also furniture shortages due to the pandemic so furnishing our new house took some time.

If you were mayor, what would you do?

Katie • I would more clearly mark the slow zones around parks and schools. Bigger, more visible signs or pavement markings. I had a hard time noticing them when I first came.

What are qathet’s best assets?

Katie • The generous and kind people and the beautiful scenery. Even stormy days are beautiful here!

What is your greatest extravagance?

Katie • I suppose that would be our house. It’s by far the biggest home (and yard!) we’ve ever had.

Which talent or superpower would you most like to have?

Katie • I would like to be more of a DIY type of person. It seems like there are a lot of resourceful, talented people here though, that will make up for my lack of creativity.