#128 Sep 2015 to the New Year - Settling In

After being away for 7 months we had a lot of catching up with family and friends. There was also regular maintenance, etc. on both vehicles.

In September Ralph was contacted about part time coverage at Vancouver Community College. We discussed the possibility of working for a few weeks or months and decided to stay in Surrey while work was available. It would help top up the “7 miles to the gallon” fund for the motorhome.

In October we drove to Calgary to celebrate Danica’s 9^th birthday. It is such a pleasure to have the freedom to travel to family events.

Fall colours were outstanding as we left Calgary. The view of Calgary Olympic Park brought back memories of our adventures during the 1988 Olympics.

The fall colors were also spectacular driving through the mountains.

Wildlife overpasses and underpasses have significantly reduced animal deaths on the Trans Canada Highway.

There are 44 wildlife crossing structures located at established trails. Only 6 are above the highway.

 

We have driven between Surrey and Calgary many times and marveled at the engineering feats that have allowed us a safe, enjoyable trip. For many years Kicking Horse Pass was a dangerous stretch of highway. Now the new bridge provides a spectacular view of the river.

The work of twinning the Trans Canada Highway will continue for many years. The highway improvements are truly remarkable achievements in modern travel.

The railway also continues to transport goods across the rugged mountain terrain.

 

Even planes leave their trail above the mountains.

October 2015 I was eligible to claim all senior’s discounts. I also pleaded for my favourite cake – black forest. Deborah made the best one I’ve ever tasted!

Christmas brought our family together in Surrey. We celebrated winter west coast style with a walk along Blackie Spit.

The movement of this flock of birds was amazing.

The sunset over Blackie Spit helped us appreciate the breathtaking world where we live.

A family visit is not complete without a walk along the White Rock Promenade.

A creative visitor carved a driftwood eagle.

A little snow enhanced our Christmas yard.

Peace Arch RV Park puts on a wonderful Christmas display.

Mother Nature left her mark in Kari’s front yard.

We love the ocean but not this much! The White Rock Polar Bear Swim on New Year’s Day is an outrageous event. Welcome to 2016.

 

#127 Aug 2015 Revelstoke and Home!

Our last stop before home was Revelstoke BC. Dave, Danica and Lindsay joined us for a few days of family time and exploring the area. 

The Revelstoke Dam is very imposing and has great interactive displays.

The Enchanted Forest is filled with childhood stories and twists on many familiar adages.

It is also a beautiful, natural forest with secret hideouts.

At the end of the trail is a small, peaceful lake with rowboats available.

The enchanted Forest is truly magical.

In Sicamous, D Dutchmen Dairy is a favorite stop for friendly licks and sniffs from newborn calves and delicious varieties of ice cream.

Meadows in the Sky on Mount Revelstoke provides a breathtaking view of the valley.

 

Giant Cedars Boardwalk features awe-inspiring cedars.

Skunk Cabbage Boardwalk is informative but it was too late in the season for the “skunk” smell from the cabbage.

S’mores topped off great, fresh air days.

Three Valley Gap provides a magnificent mountain vista with a stunning chalet at the end of the valley. We have stopped many times to admire the view and have lunch.

We had never taken the time to explore the adjacent Ghost Town. 

Finally we took the time to see vignettes of the mining and railway that created once vibrant communities.

 

 

In Revelstoke The Railway Museum takes visitors through the progress of the first railway across British Columbia.

 

 

The interactive engineer's cab is thrilling for all ages.

The Last Spike at Craigellachie is always a challenge.

Revelstoke is central to many attractions and events. Every night during July and August there is free entertainment downtown. It's a great way to unwind after a busy day.

 

As we drove towards home the air was thick with forest fire smoke.

HOME to family and friends again!

What a trip!

 7 months
 38,000 kms between both vehicles
 28 states
 10 provinces

The stats only hint at our experiences and memories. We now have a much better understanding of the geologic evolution and human history of much of Canada and the United States. Along the way we met many friendly people who gave us a sense of their communities.

We headed south in mid January during the shortest days of the year. Our first few weeks were in states we had previously explored. As the days got longer we were into new territory. That allowed us more time to travel and explore each day and not rush through new experiences. As we moved up the east coast, long warm days allowed us to savour spring, then summer in new surroundings.

We realized this trip was costing more than we anticipated. We agreed that we won't likely travel many of these roads again. We did as much sightseeing as our time and energy permitted.

We belong to some camping organizations which helped reduce our overnight costs.

Inevitably there were mechical issues but that is to be expected over so many kilometres. The challenge was dealing with them in unfamiliar locations.

There certainly were ups and downs along the way. At times Ralph and I took a deep breath and a walk. We have, however, learned to exercise more patience with one another. Don't sweat the little things.

Together we stepped out of our comfort zone many, many times.

Would we do it again? ABSOLUTELY!