Meet Ashley Thompson. Ashley is from Winnipeg but has lived in Kamloops since 2016. She enjoys hiking, paddleboarding, and everything else outdoors in the city.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
Winnipeg, 2016.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
Nana, she's legendary.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
The art we are: comfy, shares local art, great cafe. Peter's Pasta: amazing food, best service ever. Gourmet greens: supports local farmers & businesses, Frenchies poutinerie: varying creative poutine ,open late. Humble organization to feed in need.
Describe yourself in one word.
Amiable.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Private island, not as many footprints, unique landscapes too.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Hiking on new trails, paddleboarding/kayaking, music in the park at Riverside.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Too many to think about.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
The ladies drink and draw at the Thompson Nicola Regional Library inspired me a lot.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Going to my lake in Ontario, we had our own bay. My grandpa would drive the boat, he knew the best fishing spots. My dad would water ski or my brother would wake board too. We would have a fish fry, then have a sauna and jump in the lake. You could see the bottom of the the lake too, it was awesome. Endless bonfires and games of horseshoe.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Regret to say my volunteer time has been limited.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Less fear, more love.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
Kenna Cartwright or Peterson creek.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
Health care, more doctors locally.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
It's right in the middle of the all the best places I've traveled too in BC. It's not too big or small of a city either. Unique shops with friendly people. Endless possibilities on your day off.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
Fill my passport with stamps.
Sell more of my artwork.
Learn different cuisines.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I've seen Pirates of Penzance on Broadway.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Personal instagram: @03trixie
Instagram art: @sketches.by.a
What is the name of your business/organization?
Not official yet.
Why did you get into/start this business?
Passion, inspiration.
What is the goal of your business?
Share positive emotions.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Combining talent with work.
What do you always find yourself saying?
One day.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Be kind. Tell people how you feel. Don't be afraid to be yourself and do what makes you happy.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Nana for sure. Start the day off cooking an amazing breakfast together, plant flowers, make soup and sammies from the veggies from her garden, draw on the deck, make dinner, watch family feud and drink wine.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Chains are based on business, locally is more passionate and interested in your needs.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Winning the Manitoba Knight's of Columbus free throw, Diploma, Art being exhibitioned at Klasseks Bistro.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Frenchies poutinerie, always finding creative ways to give back to the community. Food is delicious everytime I go too.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Elie Hanna.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
I love kamloops a lot. I've been on many adventures in and around town, can't wait for more. I'm a beginner photographer that loves seeing the beauty in everything. Love to capture birds & landscapes. I'm also a foodie, so I'm always posting my favorites and where I think everyone should try. Koh-I-Noor indian restaurant is definitely one of them, flavorful dishes with hospitable service. Golds gym has been my outlet pad, so many mirrors and machines to motivate you, there is a woman's side too which is amazing. I just started lifting weights in December, slowly learning how to become a healthier and stronger version of myself. So far I love how motivated and positive I feel. There is countless trails for hiking. I find a special beauty about being in the city one minute then into the thick forest next. Summer equals endless possibilities in Kamloops. Lovin winter now, snowshoeing changed my mind.
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE. Thank you, Kamloops.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great!
