Cypress Bowl

It was such a gorgeous night that we decided to drive up to Cypress Bowl view point to watch the sunset. What always amazes me is the juxtaposition of the downtown highrises butted up against the wilderness of Stanley Park. Vancouver is truly a unique city for that reason.

Although my camera doesn't do it justice, the Lion's Gate Bridge is impressive at night with its lights, as well as Canada Place when lit up.

Another fun, low-cost thing to do on a hot summer night, when you just feel like being a tourist in your own city.

Millenium Water Olympic Village

Tonight we took a walk along False Creek past the new Millenium Water Olympic Village. The towers are still under construction, but the bike path and pedestrian walkway are now open. I know there has been a lot of controversy about this project, but it is a very impressive landscape with innovative seating (check out the giant lounge chair!), tons of places to stop and enjoy the view, and a unique bridge. There is also an island habitat that was created to offset the environmental impact of the construction. It's not open yet, but already there are Canada geese living on it. No Starbucks yet but I'm sure that is coming!

Hotdogs for Heritage

Today we visited an architectural salvage sale which was a fundraiser for the Vancouver Heritage Foundation at 1550 Angus Drive in spectacular Shaughnessy. There were doors, windows, lighting fixtures and some memorabilia from the old Woodward's store, along with a silent auction. Entrance was by donation ($10 minimum) with free hotdogs & chips and even a beer garden around back.

Although there wasn't a lot for sale, it was a nice day to take a walk around the neighborhood, and especially interesting to get a glimpse of the beautiful gardens surrounding this character home.

Canada Day on Granville Island

It was a sea of red & white on Granville Island today in the sun. There was face painting, tattoos, street performances, free jazz festival concerts and even a parade.


There were even a couple of hippy Spaniels who got into the act.

It's always good to remind ourselves how lucky we are to live in such a great country. Happy Canada Day!