Summer Activities 2014

It has been a great summer on the West coast, and we have enjoyed several visitors from the mainland and taken a few short trips ourselves.

First off was a visit from Donna, a long-time friend of Marlene and the Maid of Honour at our wedding 38 years ago, whom we had not seen for about 8 years.

Lighthouse Country Community Walk

We covered a lot of territory from Campbell River to Nanaimo and out to Uclulet & Tofino on the West coast of the island.  Donna particularly liked the beaches between Uclulet and Tofino.  We enjoyed much good food and laughter, just like old times.

Long Beach, Uclulet

Next up was a visit by Heather and Neil from Sicamous.  Marlene worked with Heather in Calgary about 20 years ago and they have been friends ever since, particularly enjoying long walks.  On day 1 we took them to Mount Washington, for a 20 Km walk on Forgotten Plateau up to Kwai Lake.

Almost at Kwai Lake

On day 2 we took them to Newcastle Island in Nanaimo harbour, where we walked the perimeter of the island, stopping for lunch at the lookout overlooking the Strait of Georgia.

Strait of Georgia from Newcastle Island Lookout

On day 3 they headed home....I hope that we didn't overdo the walking, and that they come back back visit again soon.

This past week we took an overnight trip to Victoria with Randy and Marty to stock up on shoes and other necessities for our upcoming trip to Spain.  We also managed to take in the Viking exhibit at the Royal BC Museum and walk about 18 Km per day, taking in the sights of the city.

The Iconic Empress Hotel

Christy's Pleasure Palace (a.k.a. The BC Legislature)

Floating Houses

Pond and Stone Bridge in Beacon Hill Park

Strait of Juan de Fuca from Beacon Hill Park

All in all it was a wonderful summer, with lots of happy memories, and we still have a trip to Spain to look forward to.  Life doesn't get much better than this.