Born in Tacoma and raised in Bellevue, Washington, Lynne Henshaw has called Nanaimo, BC, home for the past decade after moving there with her husband. Surrounded by spectacular natural beauty and friendly people, Lynne embraces life on Vancouver Island with gratitude, adventure, and a strong sense of community spirit.
What is the best part about being your age?
I’ll share a quote that resonates with me:
“The first half of life is about becoming who you needed to be to survive.
The second half is about unraveling everything that no longer aligns with your soul’s purpose.” ~Ella Hicks
I retired a couple of years ago, and now, on the cusp of 60, I feel so fortunate to live life this way. Having more time for the things I love—hiking, cooking, weightlifting, yoga, wellness, reading, travel, and time with my husband, family, and friends—feels like such a gift. I also volunteer with ElderDog, walking dogs for seniors, and lead yoga classes at the local brain injury society.
In the past, I’ve taken on volunteer opportunities abroad, including a Habitat for Humanity build project in Nicaragua in 2018. Though the project was rewarding, civil unrest erupted just as we finished, and we had to leave the country immediately. Thanks to the incredible support of local staff, we made it out safely. It was tense at times, but also a reminder of why I love adventure.
What are you looking forward to?
To stay strong, healthy, and to keep learning and loving life, no matter what age I am.
What was the worst thing you ever got in trouble for?
Don’t ask! I was a bit rebellious and crazy as a teenager.
What are the top 5 things on your bucket list?
As my dad used to say, the runway is getting shorter—and I feel the same. Travel is at the top of my list. In winter 2026, my husband and I plan to visit Australia (a first for me), and next spring I’ll be walking the Camino Francés. After that: a safari in Africa to see the Big 5, adventures in Japan, explorations through South America—the list is endless!
Also on my list is improving my Spanish to a level where I can hold a solid conversation.
What thing in your life had the most impact on who you are now?
In 1992, I married a Canadian and moved from Bellingham, WA, to Vancouver, BC. We had a daughter together, and after a few years, I had to make the difficult decision to leave the marriage. I raised my daughter, Morgan, in Vancouver—a beautiful but expensive city. There were challenges and sacrifices, along with plenty of good times, but ultimately the experience made me stronger and more resilient. I am incredibly proud of the beautiful human Morgan has become.
What is the best thing that happened to you recently?
Last July, my daughter married her soulmate, and I am absolutely over the moon for them.
I’d also be remiss if I didn’t mention my connection with Sole Sisters, which has enriched my life with new friendships and countless good times with fabulous, like-minded women. A couple of years ago, I had just retired, and in the dead of winter, I was looking for something meaningful to do with my time. Just like that, a post from Sole Sister Ramblers popped up on my Facebook feed. I joined the first Nanaimo ramble, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Now, after attending and leading many rambles, I am thrilled to be volunteering as a Rangler. Big thanks to the founders—SSR has brought so much joy to my life.
READ MORE > Rambler Profiles, Sole Sister Ramblers
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