A wonderful thing about telephoto lenses is that you find things from a distance that you might not see from the street level. Such was the case on my walk about in Vancouver’s Tinsel Town.

From atop the rise at Andy Livingstone Park this message came into view. From the distance in the daylight, it was impossible to determine if it was a neon sign. If it isn’t, it would be outstanding at night if it were.

An uplifting message for those souls who’s home is the Dowtown Eastside – a poignant notation should a dark harbinger of Vancouver real estate take flight.

About the Park

“Andy Livingstone Park offers refuge from the busy city with a wide range of facilities, including many opportunities for active recreation, as well as more scenic and serene areas. Explore one of the curving trails that meanders up to the high point of the park, follow the stream down to the pleasant formal seating area and pond, play a game of soccer, or enjoy the lush ferns, salal, and dogwood that spill over the beds and slopes throughout the park. An adjacent waterfall and cobble-bottomed stream also conceals a pump house whose mechanical features support the 500 gallon per minute re-circulating waters.

The park’s most prominent feature is a very popular double, lighted, artificial turf playing field suitable for soccer, field hockey and softball.

History
The park was named for former Park Commissioner Andy Livingstone who served his city from 1969 – 1988. The park was officially opened in June 1995 and was paid for through community amenity contributions from developer Concord Pacific Inc.

Sometimes found are a few minutes between appointments.

In Vancouver it’s easy to take a few of those minutes and visit any one of the incredible parks we have in our city.

During those short periods, it’s easy to remove yourself from the bustle of the city. Within a few steps you will find yourself in microcosms of tranquility – a perfect place reflect.

This particular quiet spot can be found in Queen Elizabeth Park.