Road Trip

This week Greg and I have decided to plunge head first into planning our summer vacation. Our plan is to take a road trip from Edmonton to Vancouver Island. Greg grew up in Qualicum Beach and Victoria, so I am looking forward to checking out the places where he spent his early years.

As for specifics, we know the dates (June 26-July 12), definite pit stops (Calgary, Radium Hot Springs, Vancouver) and must-have meal locations (Shima on Denman in Vancouver for sushi and Bibo in Nelson to check out Culina's BC sister). We're mixing camping with hotels like the Empress in Victoria and on-the-beach hospitality suites like The Captain's Inn in Qualicum. I'm hoping to take in some hiking and campfires, the Calgary Stampede and Canada Day in Vancouver with the Robson Street festival and fireworks in Burrard Inlet. I'd also like to head to Seattle for a day trip if possible. Beyond these broad strokes, we're still in the planning phase.

Image via Sasuke GR.

Mountains

A long weekend in the fantastic Jasper National Park requires no wordy recap; instead, here is our photo diary of Victoria Day Weekend 2009.

Fans

Warmth has come to Edmonton. Our patio doors have been open all morning, and aside from some serious buzzing coming from the hospital next door, the day is lovely. This morning's edition of the Edmonton Journal included a booklet on things to do around Edmonton this summer. Needing no further motivation, Greg and I are preparing to head north a little to buy hostas at the large greenhouses outside the city and check out the town of Morinville.

With a slight (emphasis on slight) sun kissed look on my cheeks, I'm excited to announce the arrival of spring to Alberta. The season of fans propped in windows (for those of us without air conditioning in our shoebox apartments) has arrived. Speaking of fans, isn't the one above delightful? Image via Design to Inspire.