Meet Robin! Robin was born and raised in Kelowna, moved away for 9 years, and now is back living here in the beautiful Okanagan with her family. She loves sharing her experiences with her family and spending her free time outdoors enjoying nature.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I'm from Kelowna originally but moved away to the Lower Mainland for about 9 years. My family and I have been back in Kelowna for over a year now and we're loving it.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
Definitely my family. My husband and I have two little girls.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
I love Scallywags. They have so much cute stuff and friendly staff. The Okanagan lifestyle brand is another.
Describe yourself in one word.
Dedicated. In this stage of my life, I'm dedicated to raising my girls and to my small business.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Don't get me wrong I love a good Kelowna winter but I am definitely ready for some sun, so anywhere warm.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Hiking.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I would probably have to say getting sick in a Costco parking lot ... thanks a lot pregnancy!
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
It's hard to narrow it down to just one, so I think most recently, I stumbled upon a non-profit organization called "Mamas for Mamas" and was really blown away. Every community needs a group like that and I can see how much they really care about the families in their community. They're such an inspiring group of women.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Far too many to list. But most include being outdoors.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
This is something that I look forward to doing more of and involving my girls. It is so important to me that my kids learn that giving back and volunteering their time really has such a positive impact on their community.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Hard question, but I think more needs to be done to stop or reverse the negative impact we are having on our planet.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I live close to a trail that overlooks both Shannon Lake & Okanagan Lake, so I like to hike that.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
The more resources that can be given to homelessness and low-income families the better.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
Its sense of community. I feel great about raising my kids here and obviously, it's stunning too.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Travel to Europe
2. See pearl jam in concert
3. Take a solo vacation. ( no offense family)
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I am obsessed with crime documentaries.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Mostly Instagram or Facebook.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Robin's Crafts.
Why did you get into/start this business?
Its a creative outlet for me and allows me to be home with my kids.
What is the goal of your business?
My goal is to keep growing and connecting with the amazing people in this community.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
In the past, it's been maintaining a healthy work/life balance. I can definitely say that area has greatly improved since being my own boss and making the move back to Kelowna.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I would do everything the exact same... every struggle... every "wrong path" has brought me to the place I am at now. However, if I could erase my unfortunate eyebrow phase, I would.
What do you always find yourself saying?
"Get your shoes on, we're going to be late."
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
"Be present."
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
At the risk of sounding cheesy, my family.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Kelowna has some seriously amazing local businesses so for me it's a no brainer, helping your local economy while supporting someone's dream, it's a win-win!
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My kids.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Shout out to all the first responders who work in this community. I don't think they get enough love.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
I follow "Local Love Gifts" on Instagram and I love her business.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Thanks so much to KelownaNow for reaching out, featuring me, and taking an interest in my small business. It really means a lot.
Robin Kinney
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