We adopted Sophia when she was about 6-7 weeks old. She was one of 5 kittens that were discovered and rescued from a forested area on northern Vancouver Island. The first year was definitely a challenge with her PTSD and anxiety. But, as her trust levels increased, so did her interaction with us. Sophia has now passed her second birthday. She is fit, healthy and tremendously curious! She likes to be included and involved in all projects!
Sophia helping with quality control!
This blog post is about the construction of a new storage bench. Of course, Sophia participated fully during all stages of construction!
We carefully unpacked the box….Sophia had to check out the color and quality of the wooden pieces. Translated, this meant exploring and hiding inside the layers of packing material while we read the assembly instructions.
Sophia checks out the packaging for us…
While we sorted out the necessary components for this project, Sophia supervised making certain we were working diligently.
Sophia inspects the components….
The next step was to assemble the sides, top, and bottom sections. Sophia watched from a nearby dining room chair while I located numbered pieces and my husband assembled them together.
Assembling the sides while Sophia observes from a safe location!
The rattan fronts on the doors seemed to intrigue Sophia and she decided to come closer to the action. She hid inside the bench structure and watched the process–even putting out her paw to assist!
Sophia getting closer to the action and extending her paw to help!
Sophia had an in depth inspection of the drawers. She seemed to approve of the construction, but was a little too fascinated by the decorative rattan on the front.
Sophia gives a final inspection of the drawers
Newly assembled, we moved the storage seat into its new location. Of course, Sophia followed and gave the furniture its final inspection from the sides and front. Luckily, it was too tight when she explored underneath, so this won’t be a new hiding spot. She adores playing tag with us!
Sophia inspects the new furniture and thankfully can not fit underneath it!
This was a quick and easy little covid project. We all assisted and are very content with the end result. Now ….Back to hiking and exploring around Vancouver Island.
Covid lockdown periods offer an opportunity to focus on projects near and dear to your heart. This blog post illustrates a renovation project to update the interior stairwell area of our house.
Updating the interior stairwell area of our house. Winter 2021.
I assisted with color selection, design, holding levels and boards during measurement and installation, and was the official photographer. My husband was the driving force, remodeling expert, and leader of this renovation project!
Our goal was to update the stairs area and add more natural light into the stairwell.
After researching ideas on multiple home renovation sites; then determining what was actually possible to alter and update in our 1970’s house; we commenced the project.
Removing previous carpet, underlay, nails and staples!
The current carpet and underlay were removed. All the nails and staples were pulled out. That’s a tedious job!
Removing the old pass-through opening…
The wood and painted plexiglass panels were removed from the pass-through opening. I must confess, I was never fond of that retro design!
As usual, our cat was involved checking out the progress and “assisting” with the changes.
Sophia loves to assist and evaluate our progress
The old handrails were removed. Imperfections in the walls were repaired and fresh paint was applied.
At “Finishing” stores we selected the wood for the stair skirts, new handrails, and trim around the pass-through opening. Wrought iron balusters were selected for inside the opening. The black balusters were a new design featured in the 2021 catalogue. We really liked how the shapes of the balusters complimented the shape of our pass-through opening.
New wrought iron balusters in the pass-through opening
The carpet and underlay were picked to compliment and transition between our foyer tile and upstairs flooring.
Measurements, painting, cutting, placement, routing, and more measurements ensued.
The custom designed stair skirts made a huge difference brightening up the stairwell area and were first to be attached in place.
My hubby created custom designed stair skirts
Updating the pass-through area came next. It was really exciting to see how this change encouraged more natural light and made the space look so much more modern and enticing.
Updated new pass-through opening and espresso modern handrails.
The new espresso stained solid wood handrails are both functional and tie in with our color scheme.
The installation of the new thick, comfy carpet was the final stage of our Covid Project Stairwell Renovation.
All done! We achieved our goals of updating the stairwell and adding more natural sunlight.
We are really thrilled with this update to our home. Awesome job, Mark!
What’s next? Time to return to hiking and exploring once the snow recedes and the roads are accessible once again.
“I’m dreaming of a White Christmas“…The lyrics incite such a romantic vision of a Winter Wonderland. It truly is magical when snow arrives for Christmas…
Winter Wonderland in our backyard…Merry Christmas 2021 from Vancouver Island, Canada.
After shoveling snow several times a day for over a week straight (Thanks hon!); and being basically snowed in during the entire time my 88 year old mother and son, Alexander, were visiting over Christmas; I must confess visions of sun and warm beaches have been slipping into my thoughts lately!
Shoveling snow every day since snow arrived! Dec 2021
However, it is with gratitude, I embrace the beautiful snowy scenes and Winter Wonderland our family experienced during 2021 Christmas.
In preparation of the Festive Season, we attended a George Canyon Christmas concert, set out the nutcracker collection, decorated the tree, and Sophia our cat set out to explore after the first snowfall.
Getting into the Holiday Mood–George Canyon, Nutcrackers, Tree, Sophia and Snow!
Gifts were created and shared. From Santa on a motorcycle playing “Born to be Wild” to homemade pumpkin pies for each of our neighbors. I even managed to get my hair cut and styled!
Getting ready for Christmas Festivities…
My husband and I headed up for a day of downhill skiing at Mount Washington prior to the influx of participation when school breaks for the Holidays.
Downhill Skiing at Mt Washington, Dec. 2021 (weekday).
By December 22nd my 88 year old mom and son, Alexander, arrived at our home on Vancouver Island. Alexander had spent the previous week in Toronto working at the StarFish Medical office in Toronto. Luckily his Covid test was negative after returning back to our province, so he was able to join us at Christmas. Sadly, his long time girlfriend, Benz, remains in Thailand due to Covid global restrictions. We all really miss her optimistic ways and quick smiles! Sophia, our rescue cat was thrilled to have Alexander home!
Beautiful Benz in Thailand and Sophia loving Alexander’s gentle touch.
When Alexander arrived my modest, reserved son quietly informed us that he had just received an award at his work place. We were all so proud when we learned that Alexander had been selected to receive the StarFish Medical “Reach For the Stars” award.
My son, Alexander, was selected to receive the StarFish Medical “Reach for the Stars” 2021 award with Scott Phillips (Founder and C.E.O. of StarFish Medical.)
His grandad (Alex) would have certainly been beaming with pride! Alexander is the 3rd generation of exceptional Engineers. My dad whom Alexander is named after, was a Marine and Machine Engineer. His Uncle Mark was an Electrical Engineer. Alexander is a Design and Manufacturing Engineer. All three generations are incredible divergent thinkers, innovative problem solvers, and hard working leaders in their fields. Alexander is very humble, but he is allowing his proud mom to share this recent recognition. I am so proud of you hon!
So how do you entertain when snow is steadily increasing outside day by day?
Daily measurement of snow on the back deck table….The last photo reached 48 cm or 19 1/2 inches!!!
Well….The 4 of us (mainly Alexander) worked together to complete a 1,000 piece puzzle entitled “Wish you were here” sent by a lovely friend in Burns Lake. Thanks Wendy! Our one outing in the snow was Alexander’s gift to his nana. Mom selected a movie she would like to see and we all attended “West Side Story” together! It was mom’s first time attending a movie theatre in years and she was thrilled watching from recliner chairs!
Christmas activities–puzzles and movies!
Eating….Meal planning was done ahead of time. Here are a few of the meals we shared together.
Sharing meals together….Enjoying extra treats over the Holidays.
Christmas is not quite the same without small children present and our day was pretty quiet with only 4 family members present together. Covid times have changed our celebrations, but we embraced our time and had fun together!
Highlights from Christmas 2021
The Fifth member of our home is our rescue cat, Sophia. Although she loves to spend time outdoors….We discovered that Sophia is not fond of deep snow and temperatures below 0! She is curious and likes to check in with us (especially me), but during a Winter Wonderland experience she is happy to hang indoors!
Sophia our Turquoise shell cat prefers indoors….but likes to follow me when the snow is under 30 cm.
It is a lot of hard physical work keeping snow under control–including keeping the vehicles accessible and driveways/paths cleared. But sometimes…..you just need to have a bit of fun and make snow angels!
Mark and Alexander demonstrate how to create Snow Angels! Dec 2021
Sophia demonstrated how to create paths in the snow and play with the snow. She was not successful creating snowballs….but she tried hard!
Sophia (rescue cat) tries to make snowballs….
We definitely had a “White Christmas” this year and as we approach the New Year of 2022, I can say honestly that we will have a “White New Year” too!
Yes. We had a “White Christmas” 2021
The snow seems to be very content resting here and weather forecasts do not indicate that it will be disappearing in the near future. So….Here are some highlights showing the beauty of a Winter Wonderland in our city.
Scenes around our cul de sac during our December 2021 Winter Wonderland.
Alexander assists nana through the path in the snow to my husband’s truck. Mark drove her up the cul de sac hill to get into the vehicle which would be taking her back home up island.
Alexander assists his nana through the snow. Mark checks out an icicle!
Christmas is over for 2021….The Winter Wonderland remains in our city on Vancouver Island.
Happy New Year 2022!!!! From our home to yours!
2020 and 2021 have had their challenges with Covid global pandemic lockdowns. A new year is inspiring and offers new opportunities and hope. Happy New Year 2022! From Canada to your home!
The previous blog post reflected our journey on the B.C. Ferry, Northern Expedition, from Port Hardy to Prince Rupert during August 2021. My husband, my mother, and I were taking advantage of an opening of travel restrictions within our own province of British Columbia, Canada thanks to over 80% of our citizens (including us) being fully vaccinated against Covid 19.
Prince Rupert (near #11) is the hub for travel to Haida Gwaii, Alaska, Port Hardy, or northeast B.C.
As darkness engulfed our 10:30 p.m. August 2021 ferry arrival in Prince Rupert, I have included some photos of the ferry terminal and surrounding harbour taken during the daylight on our 2019 trip.
The Prince Rupert terminal is the hub for travel to Haida Gwaii, Port Hardy, and Alaska!
These photos were taken during a previous trip on March 31st 2019 when we reversed route directions and departed from Prince Rupert heading south to Port Hardy.
Prince Rupert harbour is a busy working harbour!
The Prince Rupert harbour is a hectic location. As we departed from the Ferry Terminal we could observe the active CN freight train line, Coast Guard vessels, Commercial Fish Packing plants, Float planes, and stacks of containers being loaded and unloaded onto International freighters that were waiting their turn in the bay.
There are totem poles in several locations near the terminal. The dock connecting the B.C. Ferry is fairly lengthy and the way the ferry connects and departs from this dock is worth watching! (From our 2019 trip).
Totem poles and “We’re off!”
Time to explore Prince Rupert… This coastal community is a hub on the northwest coast of British Columbia. At present it boasts a population of 12,220 people. Wikipedia calls Prince Rupert “The City of Rainbows” and claims it is Canada’s wettest city with 2,620 mm (103 inches) of average annual precipitation.
The following photos were taken while exploring Prince Rupert in late March 2019. Note the snow on the surrounding mountains and frozen icicles hanging off the rocks beside the walking trails.
March 31st 2019 exploring Prince Rupert.
Cow Bay is a really colorful and historically interesting area to explore. You will have located Cow Bay when you discover the “Pride”rainbow sidewalk.
I must confess that as we explored Prince Rupert in mid August 2021 we were stunned by the green, lush plants and grass compared to the dry heat wave yard conditions on Vancouver Island and around much of the province this summer.
Around Prince Rupert August 2021. No evidence of a heat wave here!
Another fascinating aspect of Prince Rupert is that it’s actually located on Kaien Island in the territory of the Tsimshan First Nations.
Prince Rupert — Kaien Island. August 2021
Prince Rupert is only 48 km (30 miles) south of Alaska, USA! It’s closest main Canadian City is Terrace, B.C. located 145 km (90 miles) west along Yellowhead highway 16.
Leaving Kaien Island Yellowhead highway along the Skeena River
The majestic Skeena River, in its full glory, is a regal companion as you travel from Prince Rupert to Terrace. The highway runs adjacent to the river for most of the trip and its beauty is stunning!
Skeena River Yellowhead highway 16
Periodically you may lose sight of the Skeena as incredibly lengthy CN (Canadian National) freight trains pull cargo multiple times each day. Bill Gates owns over 10% shares of this Canadian company!
Sharing the view with trains!
VIA rail also runs passenger trains which travel between Jasper and Prince Rupert, B.C. A good percentage of the train transportation route tends to run between the highway and the river.
Just prior to Terrace we encountered several interesting bridges. People were swimming and fishing in the rivers or enjoying sunbathing on the smoother banks.
Kitsumkalum Near Terrace. Note the Spirit bear statue.
Onward to Terrace which is a city of similar size to Prince Rupert—just over 12,000 population. It is located on unceded Tsimshian First Nations territory. Terrace is the largest city in the Kitimat-Stikine district. For more information about Terrace check out this website. https://www.terrace.ca/discover-terrace/about
More fascinating highway and railroad bridges near Terrace
While exploring Terrace keep a look out for Kermode or Spirit bears! They have many Spirit bear statues scattered around the city. Each one is unique and beautiful. Here is a sample of 2 Spirit bears we discovered.
Kermode or Spirit bears at Terrace, BC.
Continuing on the highway, we headed northeast towards Hazelton area on highway 16.
This truck from Alberta had an interesting metal attachment on the back. Hmmmm…. We rarely see these on Vancouver Island. But as my brother lives in Prince George and has one for his truck…. I am familiar with its purpose. Snowmobiles or ATV’s! During much of the year there is deep snow up here!
Ready to haul heavy snowmobiles or ATV’s.
The landscape started to change as we continued travelling away from the coast towards the confluence of the Bulkley and Skeena rivers at Hazelton.
Nearing the 2 Hazeltons
There are several communities that make up the “Hazeltons” area. There is much rich history here in the historical heartland of northwest B.C. European Pioneer settlement started in the 1860’s. But the Gitzsan and Wet’suwet’en First Nations settled here over 8,000 years ago.
Mom was not keen to stop and explore during this trip. So I’ve included some photos from our March 2019 visit. The first collage depicts the Old Town Hazelton pioneer community 1880’s.
March 2019. Pioneer Hazelton area. Lots of interesting artifacts and little shops.
If you are fascinated by First Nations culture and history I highly recommend visiting the ‘Ksan Historical Village and Museum. Learn about Gitxsan history and if you are lucky, you may be invited to assist with carving a majestic totempole.
‘Ksan Historical Village March 2019
We were invited to learn to carve at ‘Ksan! What an honour!
Our final destination during this journey was Smithers, British Columbia. Smithers is located about one-half way between Prince Rupert and Prince George along Highway 16. It is 74 km (46 miles) by car from Hazelton to Smithers.
Welcome to Smithers, B.C.
Smithers is a stunning alpine type town in northwestern B.C. famous for its world class skiing and fishing. Its population of about 5,400 people has remained remarkably consistent for the last decade. If you love outdoor recreation, this community has much to offer.
The next blog post will explore Smithers and the Nechako Lakes District area of north central B.C. Keep smiling and stay safe. Cheers.
Ever contemplated taking a cruise up through the Inside Passage from Vancouver Island north along the British Columbia pristine coastline to Haida Gwaii or even Alaska?
B.C. Ferries Northern Expedition docked at Port Hardy, B.C.
Well, did you know that B.C. Ferries Northern Coast route from Port Hardy to Prince Rupert covers a similar geographical route?
BC Ferries Routes off western Canada
This blog post explores our experience on the Northern ExpeditionB.C. Ferry in mid August, 2021.
This blog post has received substantial viewing in 2023….I would like to advise that since I travelled this route August, 2021 please verify any prices and covid protocols on the trip. Enjoy the journey!
My husband and I were travelling with my mom, who requires mobility support, so our experience will also be beneficial if a member of your group requires wheelchair accessibility.
Driving aboard the Northern Expedition at Port Hardy, B.C.
This ferry trip is lengthy (about 15-16 hours) but the pristine coastline offers a scenic mode of transportation up the British Columbia coast from Port Hardy to Prince Rupert. The majority of the trip occurs during daylight during the summer and during the night during the winter months.
7:00 a.m. Early Departure… outside in the wind near God’s Pocket.
The cost for this experience depends on the ‘extras’ you add, and the season you select to travel in. Check the B.C. Ferries website for more thorough information. https://www.bcferries.com/ We travelled one way during the summer (peak season).
Our reservation included: 2 adults and 1 senior over 65, plus 1 vehicle. We added 1 inside cabin as mom requires lying down periodically (only cabin choice available when we reserved) $100 in 2021.
Inside cabin… There was a small TV and a complete bathroom with shower and towels.
Plus we purchased 2 reserved seating spots in the Aurora Lounge for $40 each in 2021. Our total cost was over $1,000 CA in 2021 for the 1 way trip.
Aurora Lounge Reserved Seats (Recliners)
The Northern Expedition Ferry has a maximum capacity of just over 600 passengers and crew and 115 vehicles. Our experience in August was a partially full ferry with plentiful physical spacing. Perhaps this was due to Covid lockdowns severely limiting international visitors permitted in Canada?
After making our way from the car deck to the wheelchair accessible elevator, we headed up to the passenger decks. First stop was the Purser’s Office to pick up a route map, and receive the pass key for our assigned cabin and reserved recliner seats in the Aurora lounge.
Points of interest along the route.
The walkway areas were wide, modern and attractive. It was easy to maneuver mom’s wheelchair in most areas.
The hall in one of the staterooms/cabins sections.
However, we quickly discovered that some of the Northern Expedition areas were now closed to passenger use.
The lovely Vista Restaurant was closed. We wondered if it was related to Covid safety restrictions? The Gift Shop was closed too. It only opened once, for about an hour, during the entire trip. This is a shame because B.C. Ferry Gift Shops usually have a varied and quality selection of clothing, books, souvenirs, First Nation’s art and designs, and miscellaneous items.
Food was only available from the Canoe Cafe. This cafe was open 3 times during the trip during breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Lunch and Dinner menus were nearly identical–with very limited choices.
Canoe Cafe
This was a surprise to us and quite different than our previous experience on the B.C. Ferry Northern Expedition prior to Covid lockdowns in March of 2019. If we travelled on this ferry again in the near future, we would definitely bring food items with us for the journey.
During the trip there were 2 different movie/documentaries shown in the Raven Lounge. The movies portrayed characters unfolding stories about the local history and culture of the small isolated communities along the coastline of B.C. It was really powerful that the settings in the movies were reflective of the coastline just outside the ferry windows! We found the stories entertaining and educational.
Inside Passage
In addition to walking around on the decks, we spent the majority of time during this trip through the Inside Passage relaxing in the Aurora Lounge. It is a comfortable location, with ceiling to floor windows, which encourage full advantage of the pristine beauty seen along the British Columbia coastline, coastal mountains, and surrounding islands.
Lovely Aurora Lounge on Northern Expedition
The high point of the trip up the Inside Passage for us was the beauty of the coastal scenery and the whales! Yes. We saw whales at #4 Boat Bluff on the Points of Interest Map shown above.
After leaving Port Hardy on northeast Vancouver Island we journeyed north through Fitz Hugh Sound passing Egg Island, Calvert Island, and Namu. Namu is a tiny community about 3 1/2 hours from Port Hardy.
The name Namu is a Heiltsuk First Nation’s word meaning ‘place of high winds“. It is claimed to be the oldest settlement on the coast. (More information is found on #8 of the Points of Interest map). The population statistics there vary, but there seems to be 50-100 people living in the area at present.
Namu … old cannery and fishing base
I have read 2 books including: Namu Quest for the Killer Whale by Ted Griffin, that recount Orcasbeing captured at this location and sold to aquariums for exhibition and performances in the mid 1960’s and 1970’s. Gratefully, this is no longer permitted or practiced in Canada.
Fitz Hugh Sound… near Namu
Continuing north maneuvering through channels and sounds we passed King Island, and Fishing Resort areas, such as, Shearwater prior to stopping briefly at Bella Bella, on Campbell Island. (5 hours from Port Hardy).
Bella Bella area. Salmon were jumping like crazy in the bay!
Bella Bella, also known as Waglisla, is the home of the HeiltsukFirst Nations people. The population of this remote community is approximately 1,600 people.
As we wove around beautiful islands in channels off the Great Bear Rainforest of B.C. we observed a few tiny logging/fishing camps and 2 regent historical lighthouses. The water was very interesting in this area creating color changes and unique rippling effects.
Fascinating ocean effects
Just over 8 hours from our departure at Port Hardy we were informed to glance outside the windows and observe picturesque Boat Bluff. This famous and scenic lighthouse complex, established in 1907, is about one-half way between Port Hardy and Prince Rupert. The light is visible for approximately 32 km and marks the entry into Tolmie Channel when heading northward.
Scenic Boat Bluff
My husband and I raced outdoors to take photos of scenic Boat Bluff lighthouse and were further blessed with the sound of expiration and sight of ‘seasmoke‘. Whales!!! There were 2–3 whales near us.
Whales passing at Boat Bluff
The low curved dorsal fins indicated they were not Orcas, but probably a baleen whale species. They did not breech or spy hop as they passed by so the type of whale was difficult to determine. My best educated guess from living in northern Vancouver Island for 50 + years, combined with their approximate size, was Humpback, (maybe too small?), Grey, or Minkewhales.
Hmmmm… what type of whale am I?
Whichever species we had the good luck to share the channel with, whales always bring excitement and awe as they journey near by.
This video depicts the beauty and fog we experienced during the second half of the journey from Boat Bluff to Prince Rupert.
During early August 2021, British Columbia experienced a loosening in Covid restrictions resulting from over 80% of our provincial population (aged 12 +) having received one or both of the Covid vaccines. This offered the perfect window of time to co-plan a 60th Birthday/Retirement surprise celebration for my brother, Mark.
The date, time, and location were determined for this outdoor event up in northern B.C.
Mark’s beautiful partner, Begona, and I started the planning committee. So many caring people ended up being involved and assisting with the surprise celebration. My brother is truly blessed and clearly well loved by so many!
My beautiful family
This blog post is dedicated to my incredible and talented brother Mark, his partner, Begona; our 88 year old mom Patti who made the long trip; and all the beautiful people who were part of this amazing day.
There was certainly boundless amounts of enthusiasm, happiness, and love experienced on August 14th in Mark’s backyard in northern B.C.! To protect identities, I will not be using people’s surnames. Special thanks to my husband Mark, Marilyn, and Blanca for contributing photos or video clips shared in this post.
After months of initial planning, communication, and redirection based on Covid updates, the final days played out something like this.
Begona, Blanca, and Angela were quick to assist and have fun!
My husband Mark, mom (Patti), and I travelled by ferry and vehicle departing August 10th from Port Hardy up to Prince Rupert then headed East. (A blog post of our trip through areas of B.C. will follow this post). Other dear friends flew north from the lower mainland (Vancouver area).
Mark was thrilled to see school BFF Alex and his lovely wife Marilyn who also flew in for the event!
On August 14th, three of Mark’s neighbors took him out golfing for over 4 hours.
The night before….
While he was away the yard was transformed by family, friends, and incredible neighbors!
Setting up the yard… Some worked inside on photos … Some organized food preparation…
There were display tables with highlights and awards from his career with B.C. Hydro…
Also a myriad of highlights from Mark’s childhood, family, and hobbies.
Family displays
In spite of a sampling of rain and a few gusts of wind, the outdoor event was a huge surprise and success. This video shows some of the highlights from Mark’s arrival and the speeches prior to the BBQ, cake and activities time.
Special thanks to Kathy, Chad, Charlotte, Lennie, Doug, and Marie for sending emails to share with Mark. Thanks to Kate, Bill, Andi, Blanca, and my wonderful hubby Mark for reading these messages. I read your message of love Lennie! Thanks to Harry for reading touching email messages from Mark’s adult children in Ontario. Special thanks to Alex and Tom for the personal, and often humorous, stories about Mark!
The speeches were personal, informative, touching, inspiring, and sometimes comical, but the final presentation was the most emotional.
I had located an ancient cassette tape from the mid 1980’s of our precious Dad (Alex) singing one of his favorite travelling songs. Growing up in isolated northern Vancouver Island meant that each family trip or journey in the car was lengthy. Dad started singing when we departed from our home and Dad, Mom, Mark, and I sang nearly non-stop each entire journey! We lost our Dad in 2007 and we miss him from the depths of our souls.
I knew Dad would be so proud to hear all these touching stories and tributes about Mark. My husband and I created a CD for Mark including songs Mark sang in grade 8, a couple of my classical conservatory piano numbers, and our Dad singing.
Upon hearing Dad’s melodic, beautiful voice singing one of our favorite travelling songs from our childhood Mark, mom, and I all were overcome with the deepest emotion and intense need to bond together. It was extremely personal, so I will only share a snippet of this family experience.
I relinquished the MC role as Mark and Begona shared their thanks and appreciation. It was time to eat, socialize and prepare for more upcoming surprises!
Rain? What rain? Bring on the food!
Matt, Andi, and their gorgeous daughters had created a surprise for Mark! Since they were toddlers Mark had an endless stash of Kinder-surprise eggs as a treat for them. They decided to create a Kinder-Surprise piñata for his enjoyment! Here are a few pictures… there are more in the next video…
Kinder-Surprise piñata!
Next was the incredible trick cake created by Sierra. We were all in shock and awe as 60 photos were pulled out of the center of the cake!!! Very cool Sierra!
Sierra’s amazing Photo Surprise Carrot Cake!
While the DJ played his tunes we took turns relaxing, dancing, and visiting. However there was one other special item needing attention….
Last month my handsome nephew Shelby and his beautiful bride Kiersten were married in Blind River, Ontario.
Due to covid restrictions and Patti’s health my husband Mark, mom, and I were unable to attend the wedding. Shelby’s wish was that he dance with his nana to the song “Knock 3 Times” by Tony Orlando and Dawn.
Knock 3 Times — This is dedicated to you Shelby! Starring nana aged 88 years!
So…. In honor of Shelby, his dad (my brother) Mark and his 88 year old nana (Patti) danced “Knock 3 Times” together. This is for you Shelby!
There were so many beautiful moments to capture from this wonderful event! Thanks to all who attended my brother, Mark’s, surprise 60th birthday/Retirement party. This next video covers some more of the fun from the piñata to hanging out in Marks garage!
This blog post adventure is dedicated to my one and only brother. 🥰 Love you Mark! Begona… You’re a charismatic, loving, and charming future sister! Thanks for the memories!
The next post will be about our travels around British Columbia during August. Cheers. Keep safe!
In our province of British Columbia, Canada we currently have over 70% of all people having received at least one dose of Covid vaccine and our freedom to interact is increasing steadily!
Pipers Lagoon during recent heat wave in Nanaimo
The 15 months of lockdowns and Covid 19 safety restrictions in British Columbia were indeed challenging, but necessary. Like many others, we utilized this period of lockdown to reflect and enhance our sustainability independence.
As fresh produce was increasingly difficult to obtain, and we were avoiding shopping line ups whenever possible, we decided to join so many others who were establishing vegetable gardens. Until now, our gardens were the flower and shrub variety. Priorities were changing…
Flowers and shrubs around our yard on Vancouver Island
Initially, we researched by watching youtube videos, contacting experienced gardeners, reading about most successful plants to produce in our growing zone area, and talking to experts at local garden stores. Then we observed the areas of our yard which produced the most direct sun for varying periods of time each day and season.
Location selected… Mark and Sophia measure the area
My husband measured the selected location while Sophia (our rescue cat) observed. We decided to use 3 raised beds for this initial garden creation. After establishing level bases, the support beams were placed. Next the 3 beds were framed and built.
My husband created these beautiful beds mainly utilizing using recycled materials from previous projects.
Mark designed the raised boxes and built them mainly utilizing recycled materials. I learned about companion plants and the most successful vegetables to use for newbies first attempts at growing vegetables.
Gogo Family Business in Nanaimo
Next stop, was Gogo’s sawmill to purchase some local rough edge cedar planks to beautify the exterior of the beds. The Gogo family has been involved in local logging for a few generations.
Local Gogo Sawmill
The office displays amazing photos of old growth timber from past eras. Sadly, the number of these majestic trees still standing has dwindled substantially.
Historical photos of old growth trees and logging practices –many moons ago!
Green Thumb, our local nursery, sells local organic mixed soil.
Getting the right combination of soil
We needed to consider drainage and mixes of soils. This project was more complicated than we anticipated!
Wahoo! Beautiful raised beds completed and ready for planting!
Once the raised beds were lined and completed on the outside, then we commenced the process of mixing all the soil types and compost together and carefully planting the seeds being cognizant of companion planting.
Companion planting in each bed was carefully considered. Waiting….
Everything seemed to make perfect sense. But, there was much learning yet to come. The water irrigation system was set up. The trellis for the peas was up. Patiently we awaited the signs of growth.
Sophia plays with fawns in our front yard
Meanwhile, Sophia played with the neighborhood fawns. My husband and I constantly appreciate the diversity of beautiful flowers popping up around the yard.
Then finally, our vegetable gardenstarted to establish itself. Selecting fresh vegetables and herbs as you create your meals each day really is inspiring and so gratifyingly.
Loving the fresh produce each day
From this experience we learned to deeply appreciate local organic farmer market producers as we battled slugs, earwigs, cabbage worms, mildew, overcrowding, and wilting from excessive heat. There truly is a lot of thought and effort involved in producing fresh produce.
Our learning curve was steep last year, but this year we have returned with more optimism and ideas. The tomato plants are separated in their own caged pots on the sundeck.
Our veggie garden July 7th 2021
We have given up on iceberg lettuce (earwigs love it) and Gai Lan (cabbage worms love it). Planting occurred a month earlier than last year (early May) with extra radishes in place. We also added raspberries and strawberries this year in addition to all of our fruit trees.
Produce from last season! The cherries are nearly ripe right now and the radishes are delicious this year!
Each morning there is such satisfaction checking the garden’s progress. We wait with inspired anticipation to see what bounty we are offered this season.
Keep smiling! Upcoming blog posts reflect hiking, kayaking, and outdoor exploration on Vancouver Island.
As Covid 19 vaccines become more accessible globally, and magic totals for ‘herd’ immunity become more of a reality than a dream; there is a new optimism about interacting with loved ones after a lengthy hug drought of over 15 months!
Hopeful for a Canada/Thailand reunion soon!
I selected a photo of Sophia (our rescue kitten) looking anxiously through the door and wondering what is happening, to introduce this blog post as it seems an accurate portrayal of Covid life during lockdowns.
What’s going on?
Sophia is extremely expressive and her antics generate laughs and discussions which truly brightened our days during lockdown periods.
The many moods of Sophia (aged 10 months)
In Canada, we are carefully observing the new freedoms we see exhibited via media in Australia, the United States and U.K. We are not there yet. In British Columbia, Dr. Bonnie Henry continues to be our amazing leader throughout this pandemic. My husband and I gratefully received our first Moderna ‘jab’ on April 28th, 2021 and are currently awaiting the notification that it is our time to receive the second dose.
Last week, with huge excitement and relief, we commenced stage 1 of a 4 stage Restart plan in B.C. with hopeful anticipation that we will experience a new “norm” and freedom by September, 2021.
Step 1 of the BC Restart Directive. May 25th 2021
The Covid 19 Pandemic has shaken the world and changed all sense of what we experience as “normal”. This blog post is driven by a grateful optimism towards the future, while remembering life and adaptations we faced in March 2020 when our lives suddenly changed…. Covid 19 arrived!
Mid March 2020. The first Covid 19 lockdown!
Prior to the March Lockdown….
My husband accepted a job as part of a team working in Hamilton, Ontario for a few months departing from Nanaimo in mid February 2020. I joined the Harbour City Newcomers Club in Nanaimo excited to meet new people and explore activities in this new location. My son, Alexander, had recently moved back home to Canada after working at Western Digital in Bangkok, Thailand for the past 6 years. He was hired just prior to Covid as a Manufacturing Engineer at StarFish Medical Consultants in Victoria, B.C.
In Early March 2020 Sophia enjoyed the many facets of being a kitten–from sleeping anywhere and everywhere, to discovering her world. She was particularly fond of munching fresh grass every morning before exploring outdoors.
Sophia’s life as a 10 month old kitten
As a member of the Harbour City Newcomers Club (HCNC), I was enjoying meeting new people, attending art workshops, and being creative using new paint techniques.
HCNC Paint workshops
In mid March 2020 we even participated in an Artisan tour checking out nearby galleries including a glass blowing studio. We car pooled together in vehicles and nobody wore masks! The following day, new lock down rules were implemented in B.C. It was the end of carpools, group meetings and indoor activities. This was the official beginning of masks and Zoom, Zoom, Zoom!
HCNC Art tour mid March 2020
Who would have anticipated that this hair appointment would be the last one I would have for nearly a year and this would possibly be the last time I would see my hairdresser without both of us wearing protective face masks?
Last hair appointment before covid! No masks!
In mid March 2020 the world as we knew it drastically changed! The unprecedented Covid 19 Pandemic arrived and people started to horde toilet paper, hand sanitizer, soap, masks, gloves, and canned food. Suddenly, there was a frenzy of uncertainty!
Covid Coping Strategies:
Thankfully, we live in a single detached home with a large yard near to lots of hiking trails and ocean access. Nature and Spring beauty bring peace and inner grounding during this unsettled and scary time.
Spring beauty around Nanaimo
Another of my favorite locations is Buttertubs Marsh. There is always a plethora of bird songs and diverse species to observe. If you are lucky, you might see turtles or Great Blue Herons.
Buttertubs marsh
My dad passed away in 2007. His favorite bird was the Great Blue Heron and it is always a thrill and comfort when they grace my day. This Heron at Buttertubs was very close to the trail.
Great Blue Heron
While I was active exploring nature and outdoor trails on Vancouver Island, my husband in Ontario visited Niagara Falls. Due to Covid lockdown… the highly popular tourist location was nearly devoid of visitors in late March 2020. What a strange and unusual experience!
Stunning Niagara Falls Late March 2020 during Covid lockdown
By late March 2020 we were starting to adapt to this initial Covid 19 lockdown. Sophia taught me to chill, reflect and sleep a lot. Puzzles and books were becoming a popular option to aid the passing of time spent alone. Stores were crazy places to avoid whenever possible. Masks were not mandated yet, but long lines and empty shelves were troubling realities. Schools and most businesses were closed during the first lockdown. There were constant disturbing news updates about areas hardest hit by Covid 19. North America seemed to fair pretty well initially, but that was to change as the Global Pandemic progressed.
Adapting to Covid 19 lockdown in late March 2020
While we embraced early signs of Spring on Vancouver Island, other areas of B.C. and Canada were still in the midst of late Winter.
Late March on Vancouver Island. The Moose photo was taken up in Burns Lake, B.C.
Daily walks and hikes outdoors were a welcome release. There are so many wooded areas, trails, lakes, rivers, and marshes to explore around Vancouver Island.
Nature walks minutes from my house in Nanaimo–March 23rd 2020
More nearby early signs of Spring to help a person feel grounded and grateful.
March 24th exploration near our home in Nanaimo
When the schools and playgrounds closed and people were confined to their homes, the hearts and messages of hope became more plentiful around our community.
Hearts in the windows and on rocks, and messages of Hope and Optimism. March 25th
As March drew to an end, it was clear that my husband’s job in Hamilton, Ontario would be terminating soon due to lockdown occurring in Ontario. Mark’s flight home to B.C. was booked for the first week of April. We were anxiously awaiting his arrival home.
Sophia was waiting too….
Suddenly, domestic and international flights were all getting cancelled due to the Pandemic. Mark needed to get home IMMEDIATELY before all the provincial borders were closed between British Columbia and Ontario!
Mark travelled home from Hamilton, Ontario (near Toronto) to Vancouver Island, B.C.
So after hours on hold with reservation centers, my husband managed to obtain a seat on an earlier flight departing the following day. Airport safety and protocols were pretty sketchy and the flight was completely full on March 31st 2020. Safety protocols certainly intensified prior to vaccines, as pandemic specialists learned more about this new Covid 19 virus.
My husband’s experience travelling from Toronto to Nanaimo during Covid lockdown on March 31st 2020.
There was no physical spacing in the airports or on the planes, so Mark wore a face mask and we mutually agreed he would go into voluntary quarantine for 2 weeks after he returned home. After our 2 week self imposed quarantine, we were both healthy and ready to tackle lockdown and Covid 19 life as a team together.
Healthy and ready to tackle this Pandemic as a team together! April 2020.
The future is optimistic and exciting, but let’s not forget the confines and struggles of this Covid 19 journey as we move forward and Carefully Conquer Covid.
The next blog posts will include more Nature, Canadian Animals, Exploration around Vancouver Island, Covid Wellness Strategies, Antics by Sophia, and Gardening. Stay safe and Keep on Smiling.
