Jetlag didn't even have time to get a look in as we drove north from Vancouver to the ever beautiful Whistler along the Sea to Sky Highway. This stretch of road is notorious for accidents - probably because people are gawking at the wonderful scenery along the way.
Thankfully we negotiated it safely, stopping off at a few landmarks along the way. Shannon Falls was one of the highlights. The falls are nestled only a 5 minute walk from the freeway but are superb and definately worth a look.
In Whistler we watched as thousands of "Tough Mudder" participants walked gingerly from busses to the village after completing a 16km obstacle course designed to test the physical and mental capabilities of even the fittest of those taking part. They poured into the village creating a very vibrant and jovial atmosphere. Mel was in awe of the architecture and landscape design of the area. She had every right to be. Caleb however was in awe of the mountain bikers making their way down the mountain - all he wanted to do was be on a bike. He couldn't have cared less about the manicured gardens and mass planted flower pots. Poor love. We hope to return in the Fall and let him actually experience the thrills of riding down the mountain.
After Whistler we made our way to Pemberton and stayed there for the night in a dodgy hotel with lumpy beds and not even enough room to swing a chipmunk (for those not in the know these little critters are about a tenth of the size of a cat!!!). Bren and I drew the short straw and slept in the same bed as Seth. I love that child with all my heart but sleeping with him is like sleeping with a hyperactive octopus. I really couldn't say how much sleep we got - but it wasn't much.
The next morning we rose from our lumpy, broken slumber to a beautiful day and drove further north along the Duffy Lake Road. We stopped countless times to admire the scenery - particularly the lakes and glacial covered mountains.
Eventually we made our way along the mighty Fraser River to Hell's Gates. It was here that Mel summoned up an enormous amount of courage and not only took the tram to the other side of the Fraser River, but walked across a bridge that spanned its raging waters. Initially Mel wasn't going to come with us on the tram but a little encouragement from Seth, "I'll give you $1 if you do it Mama!" and a great deal of internal fortitude encouraged her across.
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| Where the Thompson and Fraser Rivers meet.... |
From Hell's Gate we made our way home to Kelowna - all of us a bit more than exhausted from a full weekend of travel (and lack of sleep).
During the next week we will be showing off Kelowna and packing for our mighty big road trip. Summer holidays are fast approaching and we are so looking forward to spending it road tripping and having fun together.
Until next time think on this...
A picture is worth a thousand words but an experience is worth a thousand pictures!!!!
