December 3rd.

We’ve had a few days of catching up with old friends and family, and meeting new friends.  We had an IHOP breakfast with old friends Rob and Elizabeth in White Rock followed by a great visit and a game of cards at their home.  The boys trounced the gals so we must have a rematch. 

We also went into the city for the first time.  Hard to believe we’ve been here for two weeks and only into Vancouver once.  John and Chrissy have been busy with work, and we really didn’t relish driving the RV in - just because of parking.  Its at a premium in the city.  Now we have the car and a parking pass for John’s neighbourhood so are heading in again tomorrow.  Our first trip entailed brunch with the kids and a bit of shopping at Granville Island Market.

John and Chrissy came out to the campgrounds for supper the other day.  They had a big job in Surrey, not far from here, so set up at the hotel in the afternoon and came over.  Jack and I had a big giggle because on the way, the headed for Hwy 1 east, same way they had sent us when we got lost.  Didn’t they make the same mistake I had - ended up heading into Vancouver instead of a couple of miles east to us.  Julie felt very vindicated.

We’ve lucked into a few days of sunshine so have been out and about, exploring the Fraser Valley.  We both love it here - it is so green, so fresh, and something different to see.  On a sunny day the mountains to the East, North and even South are magical.  The sun lights up the snow on the mountaintops and it is just magical.

We took in a Christmas marketplace in Abbotsford the other day.  I can’t wait to go to the city to see the Christmas Lights Sail Past and Stanley Park.  Would love to go up Grouse Mountain to go sleigh riding and enjoy their Christmas spectacle, but I think it might be out of our price range.  We are finding some things very expensive here, especially food - both in grocery stores and restaurants.  Breakfast, for example usually costs us close to $25 by the time we are done.  Coffee is the killer - $2.50 each.  So we gave started going back to McDonald’s for coffee stops.  Love their $.80 seniors price, better coffee - and we get to read the paper!

We went out and got an insulated bag so we can start taking picnics.  Jack likes to go out everyday so it’s a compromise!  And, the meals are pricey, but huge, so we are starting to share.

This week we've connected with Sandra (our sister-in-law in Victoria) so will be going over there for a visit with her and other friends, and also my friend Kasey in Vancouver.  

More next time.  All the best to you all.  Remember if you want to get in touch, email me at julie@seacroftpei.com

Julie