World Wanderers: Life is an adventure. It’s not the destination that’s rewarding, it’s the journey.: August 2011

The summer was brilliant. We made many trips around Vancouver Island—up to Mom and Graham’s and to the Sooke Pot Holes. Des and I did the WEST COAST TRAIL with David, Carelia (who was 3 months pregnant with Maia at the time—trooper!), Simon and Uncle Kurt. We camped along the way and made our way up giant ladders and through thick mud and bush.We were surrounded by tropical rain forest and we saw grey whales by the hundreds, almost to a point where we took them for granted they were so common! Also everywhere was sea lions (very smelly) and giant colourful star fish! There was even a bear near our campsite which was on the beach. Each night we had to put all our food into bear lockers or raise it high into the trees to keep it away from bears. We ate dehydrated food each night and slept away to the sound of the waves, amazing! We took an open gondola-type thing across the river which was really cool that led us to a gorgeous waterfall—sweet reward! We did the portion of the west coast trail in 3 days (So 1.5 days there and the same back). It is truly one of the most beautiful places in Canada, I would highly recommend it to anyone! We hope to go back someday and do the whole thing!