Yearn to Wander

Great Blue Heron's are a frequent sight on the mid-coast of Vancouver Island along the Georgia Strait. Here are some pictures of this gawky yet elegant bird from a quiet sit on Qualicum Beach this morning.

U mista Cultural Center Totem

"Yo!" means hello in Kwakwaka'wakw. Based on the people I met, it could also mean "Welcome!"

The 'Namgis, a First Nation band within the Kwakwaka'wakw, live in Alert Bay side-by-side with the immigrant population. They are known for their historic agreement, the first in Canada, between immigrant and aboriginal communities. Their culture and art are known world-wide. Tourists get to know them through their dance, song, and conversation on their reserve, especially at The Big House, their major civic building, and throughout the town.

Alert Bay is a small community on Cormorant Island, a short ferry ride in the Inland Passage from Port McNeill, a logging and tourist community near the north end of Vancouver Island.

Highway 19, South of Port McNeill

During a break, we drove to the north end of Vancouver Island, better known here as "up island" by the locals. The three ports: Port McNeill, Port Hardy, and Port Alice offered a new and interesting perspective, as we were "beyond civilization" in the midst of heavy duty logging. As we expected, the natural beauty continued unabated.

Bumble Bee Looking for Food

The summer was full of gardening, cycling, and getting to know the island, where nature offered one beautiful sight after another. Here are a few of my favorite subjects, or maybe pics. Enjoy!

Ochre Sea Star with 6 Legs

Georgia Strait< between the British Columbia mainland and Vancouver Island, is dotted with many small islands. As a result, the tides become very important, especially for those in small vessels, as the changes can bring unexpected or heavy currents in the narrow passages. Additionally, the tides affect the sea creatures and people. The tides provided some interesting lessons in marine science. More later.