Always summer, never warm.
This is the mantra painted in the Coast Guard's
Polar Sea Icebreaker. While enjoying warm summers up north I've chosen a second chilly summer in McMurdo Station, Antarctica.

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

a trip north before heading south

Today, my Starbucks friend, Diana, and I went to BC (that's British Columbia) to visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge. It was a cool and cloudy, but good day to get out and enjoy the green forest and a nice drive into Canada. We had both talked about wanting to visit and I thought a little trip would be good before I finish the packing tomorrow. Traffic was a breeze compared to my last trip north of the border and we didn't even have to show ID going into Canada!

After a stop at both Tim Hortons and Starbucks, we arrived at the park and took in some "First Nation" totems and sculptures. The park tells the story of the forest and the Douglas Fir tree. Some of these trees are 300 years old and stand over 250 feet tall!

The highlight of the park is the suspension bridge, first built in 1889. Four bridge constructions later, it has become the present tourist attraction. It is strong enough to carry 1,333 average-size people! On the other side of the bridge the forest is home to one of the best tree houses I have seen. Diana and I kept referring back to what we could have done in it as kids! Beyond this, there are suspended walkways between 7 of the towering Douglas Fir trees, and a boardwalk that allows tourists to walk along the canyon edge. I liked being able to see the trees from above. We also meandered through the little lakes and a stream between activities. This park seems ready to host a heap of 2010 Olympic tourists when the games arrive in Vancouver!

I had a great time outside with Diana. And, when I got back, Uncle Jerry and Aunt Faye took me out to enjoy a last dinner out. Of course, I couldn't pass up one last Bonzai Burger before I leave the populated world! Thanks to all for a fun day!

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