Trains, Beavers & Bowling Balls

Nick started his journey to England on Monday 31st May by catching a ride with me in our car from Cumberland to Courtenay. From there, he hopped aboard the VIA train that runs once a day from Courtenay to Victoria. He only needed the first leg of the journey which would set him off in Nanaimo. From there, he walked down to the marina and spent the night on TyDewi, before catching the early morning ferry on Tuesday that would take him to Vancouver on the mainland. From Horseshoe Bay he took the Express bus to downtown and switched over to the SkyTrain that took him right to the airport. A few hours wait and he was on a plane and 8 hours later landed at London Gatwick. Hmm, then not sure if he took a bus or train, but once in Cambridge, I believe he took a taxi from the station. Why do I mention all this? Because Nick was extremely proud that he used his own power and public transport for all but 10 km of the journey. Ever since moving to BC, we have been trying even harder to reduce our dependence on a car. We still remain a one car family, yeah!

For the rest of us left behind in Canada, sigh, we have kept busy. We started swim lessons again, and enjoyed several Beaver outings. Issie and her friend Isaac, swam (graduated) up to Cubs in a ceremony at Camp Gilwell. It was also a chance for all the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Ventures to have a final get together and send off before the summer holidays. We enjoyed cake, a walk down to the river, and an impromptu game of football (soccer).

This was followed by our own Beaver group camping trip to Comox Lake on Friday. After so much rain, we had no idea what to expect. However, the weather gods were in our favour and we had the most splendid weather. Our leader Nicole had already set up most of camp by the time we arrived, leaving more time for the kids to explore and play, and they certainly waisted no time. Issie immediately scolded me for not bringing her bathing suit. It NEVER occurred to me, after the cold and rain of the last two weeks, to do anything of the kind. Especially as the lake is glacier fed. So even in the summer it is on the chilly side. However, used to improvising, the kids decided they were fine to go in their underpants. While Max stayed mainly on the beach, Issie and Isaac did brave the fridged waters, with screams of delight. We enjoyed a beautiful sunset and stayed up late around the campfire before snuggling into our cozy tent beds. It was a wonderful camping event even if the rain came just as we were packing up. Perfect timing is all I can say.

June is also a time for many school field trips. Last week Max and his class enjoyed some five-pin bowling. He had so much fun, he can't wait to show Daddy when he gets back, and is even planning to have his birthday there!! In the meantime, rolls of paper towel and a soccer ball make for good improvisation. Next week, Issie braves the outdoor pool with her class, while Max's heads off to Miracle Beach to rock pool. Watch this space.

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