April 2023

 

The Weather

Of course we have to start with the weather…….

Picture us poor people living in the desert (?).  No sweltering temperatures for us!  The first three weeks of April were cold, with relief only coming the last few days of the month.  Of course we were desperate for spring, but had to keep hanging on until the last possible moment.

April 1—high of 4.1, 1” snow overnight and squalls during day

April 18—at least 1” snow overnight, flurries during day and next day

April 21—snow on the ground in am

April 25—first Calliope Hummingbirds at feeders

April 29—Brian’s first bike ride

April 30—high of 22.6

The cherry trees in the valley had their blooming delayed by 2-2 ½ weeks, so we didn’t even get comfort there.

Away to Tofino

For a break from the snow, we decided to go to Vancouver Island (Tofino explicitly) to celebrate the Easter weekend and my 70^th birthday.

On our way, we stopped into Cathedral Grove (now renamed MacMillan Provincial Park) for our tree fix.  The north side of the trail has been completely replaced by boardwalks, saving the habitat from erosion caused by considerable human traffic.  They had done a beautiful job.  And even though it was raining and miserable, there will still lots of people there.

To the complete surprise of the ex-Ontarians, the only wildflower in bloom (other than Skunk Cabbage) was a Trillium.

From the Grove we continued on to Tofino, and our stay at the Wickaninnish Inn for one of the best hotel experiences we could ask for.

Our room was very comfortable, complete with fireplace and balcony, and the view was spectacular.

 

The Official Welcoming Official lorded it over everyone from above.

Beach-walking was our primary activity.  Although it rained almost all our visit, it didn’t keep us indoors.  Four to five layers of clothing (!) were sufficient to keep us warm and dry, although we certainly walked funny!  One day featured heavy rain, a brief but intense hail flurry and biting winds.  Nothing like variety to stir the spirit!

The size of the driftwood on the beaches was impressive.

 And the tide pools were fascinating.

Despite the weather, one group of people were out on the beach regularly, and were having the most fun.  The surfers were there in droves.

Right across the road from our complex was the Hotel Zed, and was it ever geared for surfers!

The outside was painted in rainbow colours, and on the inside they had amenities one didn't always see.

Like a disco room.

Or a retreat room straight from the east.....

There were unique touches for the guests, both inside...

And out....

Driftwood was not only appealing for decorations, but was used to build quick shelters on the beach for surfers.  Some were elaborate; some were rudimentary.

Tofino did show signs of spring.  Magnolia trees were in full bloom, some rhododendrons were starting to flower, and some little bulbs were out.  It wasn’t sufficient to convince us that spring had arrived.

 

Our scepticism was rewarded by the scenery after the first hill leading out of Tofino.

Back to Our Stomping Grounds

Back home on the mountain, the neighbourhood had made great efforts to celebrate Easter on one road.  Mr. (now Ms.) Bullmoose was in fine form.  The eyelashes were spectacular.

 

The local coffeeshop had Easter urns out in the parking lot.  It still took another 2 ½ weeks for the first spring flowers to start blooming, and for the first hummingbirds to return.  May looks much more promising.

Farewells

This will be my last blog on this site.  The posts started after my mother suffered a stroke and was severely handicapped.  For her, the next 9 years were spent in a long-term care facility.  The staff and their care was fabulous, and this was a way I could communicate with my mother.  One of my brothers, Jim, would faithfully bring his computer and show Mum the pictures while telling her my stories.  Mum passed away on March 29, 2 days before her 93^rd birthday, and it is time for me to move on.

 Thank you for visiting and your comments via emails.  It has been fun sharing these things and getting your reactions.  I appreciated your attention--it has meant a lot.

 

Sincerely, Helen