Butchart Gardens

Of my prior three trips to Victoria, BC I never made it to Butchart Gardens. I did today. Very wheelchair (and scooter) friendly. I took way, way too many pictures of flowers. Here is just a fraction of the beauty to be found there.

Yes, I am

For those who predicted this was the adventure I was taking by myself, you were right.

Today we leave from Vancouver, BC. Tomorrow's stop - Victoria. 

The Big Test

I have to pass this test. It's everything I believe in. It's how I'm trying to live my live. Adventure. Opportunities. Excitement.

But my knee has struggled to keep up. All the walking, the treadmills, the being on my feet has destroyed it. I can't take a step without excruciating pain so until I get a new knee (after kiddo's wedding) my life is being lived with a cane and the scooter. Pain - the really bad kind - darkens your world.

But pain wasn't an issue when I planned this adventure. So I find myself struggling to go forth with a positive attitude. But go forth I shall. I choose joy. (Or at least that's what my tattoo tells me.)

The solo,
handicapped,
suck the marrow,
trains, planes, automobiles, and ships
adventure begins now.

First up, hop a plane to Seattle. Take the light rail into the city. Visit Pike Place Market in the pouring rain. Just me and scooter. And flowers. And veggies. And fish. And the most delicious salmon-potato croquettes from a restaurant in the market.

Second up, take the light rail to the Amtrak station. 

Hop a train to Vancouver, British Columbia.

Next up? You'll just have to wait and see. But if you know my travel patterns, you probably could venture a pretty good guess. 

Poor Tree

Remember these gorgeous blossoms on a tree outside kiddo's apartment?

That pretty tree is no more. A windstorm turned it on its side.

Poor tree.

Egg Discovery

Look what kiddo found behind our shed when she was staining the fence. Any idea what bird lays these kind of spotted eggs in the dirt?