Today, I will wear white! The sun is out, the temperature is supposed to climb and it might actually feel like summer has finally arrived. I'm so excited to pull out the white clothes I've toted about for the last eight months longing for summer. However, once again we fall victim to the meterologist's bait and switch! When we get going on our outing, the temperature drops, the sun departs and the spattering rain begins. Luckily, after this much time in the Northwest, we know what you see isn't always what you get weatherwise. We never go anywhere without at least two more layers of clothing stowed in the car.
Cathedral Grove in Macmillan Provincial Park (vancouverisland.com/parks) is a walk into Jurassaic Park. The 743 acre stand of towering Douglas-fir and Cedar trees convince you, you are in a world unto its own....and in a way you are. The oldest and tallest of these is 800 years old and 250 feet tall. There are tree hollows large enough to hold an entire family.
The trails lead through a world of nature at her best and her cruelest. The trees, ferns, wild flowers and streams are beautiful and soothing.The hundreds of toppled trunks and limbs 
that have closed many trails are the result of a massive 1997 storm which is said to have changed the look of the park forever. The bad news is that it took out so many wonderful specimens....the good news is that it opened up the canopy to allow sunlight into the forest bringing new growth. We were so glad to have seen this extraordinary place.
that have closed many trails are the result of a massive 1997 storm which is said to have changed the look of the park forever. The bad news is that it took out so many wonderful specimens....the good news is that it opened up the canopy to allow sunlight into the forest bringing new growth. We were so glad to have seen this extraordinary place.
Next stop on today's jaunt is the Little Qualicum Falls. This proved pleasant, but not extraordinary. The hike to the two sets of falls is relatively steep....glad I brought tennis shoes so I could change out of my sandals.
Goats on the roof! It's really not to be believed. Coombs Country Market (oldcountrymarket.com) began in 1971 as a small produce stand. The originator was from Norway and it is said he longed to see a grass roof like those in his country. It is also said that once he got the grass growing, a few glasses of wine inspired the idea of putting goats up there! It is a hoot, but I find it hard to believe that PETA is all over it.
They are atop a now extensive building that houses a rather odd combination of goods. Kind of like a Trader Joe's mets Pier One with a restaurant thrown in. The fresh breads look glorious but are better looking than they are tasting.The best part is an out building of wonderful fresh produce at terrific prices. We stocked up.
We've had a terrific time in Parksville. Tomorrow we'll head further up island to the gateway of the North Coast. Campbell River is called the Salmon Capitol of the World. Looking forward to some good eating.
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