If you are in Duncan, on Vancouver Island, it’s a good idea to stop at the Quw’utsun’ Cultural Centre.
When we arrived, the man at the reception desk was knitting a classic Cowichan sweater.
Outside, some large totems are on display. They have been there a while, and the wood is showing some checking.
I think it adds to the symbolism. Beautiful, powerful work. Sorry I did not write down the name of the artist.
This one is called Westerland.
It’s a gorgeous, fragrant climbing rose that tolerates some shade, and is tough in dry conditions. I love this one.
There is a big flat rock in my garden, with a “bowl” in the middle. It’s a natural bird bath.
This nuthatch was waiting for me to top up the pool.
Then came a very rowdy chickadee.
Who was soon joined by two buddies. Raucous peeping, and flapping of wings.
It’s going to get hot over the next few days. Keep the birds in mind: give them a little water to drink and bathe. They’ll even follow you around in the garden, when you have a hose in hand. That’s a hint!
Six years ago, I purchased this barrel cactus when it was young and about six inches tall. It is now over a foot tall, and very heavy.
This year, after years of quasi-complete neglect, it decided to bloom in the greenhouse. Just to remind me that there are rewards for patience… And that a little kindness (i.e. some light watering) can lead to revival. Yep, revival is always possible.
This is the photo I wanted, over a week ago. A golden meltdown at dusk, with no trees in the way.
To get that shot, I clambered down below the house, in front of the tree curtain. Took many shots of the sun traveling toward that hill on the right, over Mayne Island.
Then I turned around to get back to the house, started climbing back up the hill… and broke my ankle after dislodging a rock. “Was it worth it?” someone asked. Well…
