#132 Jun-Aug 2016 Summer-People, Birds & Flowers

We planned to spend the summer in Surrey so Ralph setup the gazebo and Kari and I went flower shopping.

Ralph even used the neighbourhood push lawnmower.

We attached this suction cup hummingbird feeder to the dining room window and were thrilled when our very busy, active visitors flitted around.

Ralph worked all summer at VCC and I worked several weeks as well. With only one vehicle I frequently drove Ralph to work. This transmission tower along Highway 99 has hosted an eagle’s nest for years.  

Every morning I had my camera ready to catch the eagle action. There was always at least one adult on or near the nest.

July 1^st weekend we drove to Oliver BC to help celebrate Al’s 70^th birthday. We had a great visit with people from around the province.

We stayed at a small winery B&B with a lovely patio off the room. 

We learned that large wineries share their resources with smaller ones, particularly at harvest time.

There were many fruit trees in the yard and we were welcome to help ourselves.

In a nearby orchard the cherry trees were loaded with fruit.

We toured the Osoyoos Desert Ecology Centre and learned about the unique plants and animals that have evolved in this rare environment. The southern end of the Okanagan Valley is the northernmost tip of a semi-arid shrub-steppe extending into the western US.

Over time, this underground burrow will be used by a variety of animals such as badgers and burrowing owls.

Near Osoyoos, fascinating Spotted Lake is a medicine lake to the Okanagan people.

In January 1965 the Hope Slide took four lives and re-shaped the Nicolum Valley. The scars on the mountain and valley are still very evident today.

 

Ralph and I have been part of a Supper Club for over 15 years. This year Paul and Marg moved to Victoria so we have expanded our venues. Ralph and I, Bob and Sue went over to check out their new home and neighbourhood. Unfortunately, Cathy was unable to join us but we waved to her.

We enjoyed a quick visit, good food and a walk along the Gorge Waterway Park.

In July we took the RV for a two week vacation just like all the years when we were working – Oh right, we were both working.

Our first stop was to visit Al and Brian at Kentucky Alleyne Provincial Park. We had the very private  honeymoon site at Alleyne Lake.

Alleyne Lake and Kentucky Lake are beautiful turquoise colours that change as the sun moves.

 

It is a peaceful, secluded campground.

Our next stop was Revelstoke where Dave and Danica, Melissa, Ava and Rowyn met us. The biggest thrill for everyone else was The Pipe Mountain Coaster. The cars travel up to 42 kph over 1.4 km of twists and turns.

We took the gondola to the top of the ride and viewed the pipe way below us.

I was the official photographer while everyone else screamed and smiled.

Once again we enjoyed the evening Street Festival music.

We had a fun few days enjoying campfires and getting to know everyone.

In mid August Ralph flew to Saskatchewan for a few days. He visited Paul and Margo who was still in hospital.  It has been a long difficult time for both of them.

In Birch Hills Ralph attended his 50^th High School Reunion. His was the largest graduating class in the history of the school. There was good attendance with renewed acquaintances and memories.

We had a great summer with family, friends and travel.