Coastal visit Apr

My visit to the coast passed in a whirl of activity, some work, some play and a chance to connect with family. Spring is really when Vancouver and Victoria shine - OK except for the traffic and construction. I left Inuvik at -20C temperatures and landed that evening to a beautiful sunset. As soon as I smelt the salt air I became homesick. The weekend was gorgeous. Apparently, it's been a cold, wet spring and the sun has been shy. I wasn't the only one experiencing a long winter. Francois and I stayed at a friend's place overlooking Deep Cove. She has the most spectacular cherry tree I have seen. It was in full bloom too. One morning I woke up early to strange sounds I didn't recognize at first. They were birds singing in the cherry tree outside the window!

It was also the beginning of the outdoor kicking season for the footbag players. I joined Francois at Kitsilano Beach to watch. I don't have nearly enough coordination to play though. At least not yet. Footbag is like hackey sack over a net or like volleyball with a hackey sack; but you only use your feet. I can't even see the darn thing!

After spending a few days in the Gulf Islands, I met up with family in Victoria. Most of them could make it. My goodness, there are a pile of us - especially with partners and children thrown in. After spending an evening with a group of them at Andrew's where all the guys were doodling on his guitar, i piped up, 'I should get one, too!' Well . . .talk about a spontaneous purchase. I know nothing about guitars, but I'm now the proud owner of one! I'd better start practicing, even if only to make the excess baggage fees worthwhile.