The Week That Was: On Land and Sea

 

Summer is flying by. So many good things to enjoy. One day we took part of the family to Portland Island on the boat. Azure skies, blue seas, calm water, and stunning views all around. Mount Baker floats above the clouds in the above photo.

The tide was low and we were able to explore rocky beaches where tide pools display the biodiversity of the sea. Purple starfish, orange sea cucumbers, transparent sea sacks, and so much more. Curious seals bobbed in the water watching us. A picnic lunch was eaten in the trees which gave shade on a very sunny day. 

A Satyr Comma fluttered on very dry ground and I wondered if it was injured. It soon lifted off, hopefully to find more pleasant landing places. 

Bald Eagles are a common sight, but it's not often I can capture them in flight. This one soared overhead, circling the boat several times before deciding there was nothing to catch. 

On another day we visited Tod Inlet, a quiet place where old concrete pilings bear witness to the industry that once took place there. I don't believe I've ever seen as many boats anchored in the small inlet, everything from large yachts to tiny sailboats. 

At home I'm cutting sweet peas every other day. I had so many yesterday that I divided them according to colour and placed them in individual vases. They perfume the room with sweetness. 

Iris and Cora have been spending time here while their mother studies for her master's degree. One day we watched a little video about coral reefs and then the girls created their own coral reefs, using bits and bobs of craft supplies in wonderful ways. 

There's an old song about the "lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer" - perhaps you know it. I told my husband this week that this summer is not the least bit lazy, and is mostly crazy with people coming and going at our house. I don't really mind the busyness and I'm trying to take time to just enjoy the garden and our new deck. It's a wonderful place to read in the evenings. 

I do love summer. Sometimes I think we here in Canada try to pack so much into it because it's such a short season. People in other northern countries likely feel the same way. So I soak up the sunshine, eat handfuls of delicious fresh cherries, pick raspberries, and savour each day.