Tofino magic - part four

I couldn't talk about our Tofino experience without mentioning the sea lions. It wouldn't be fair to exclude them.

On Vancouver Island there are hundreds of sea lions - most of which laze around in the sun whenever they get a chance. Here are our favourite moments captured on camera:

This sea lion is having a nice big yawn. I'm not surprised - it must be an exhausting life.

This is my favourite. The poor little mite can barely keep his body on the pipe.

CS

Tofino magic - part three

In Tofino - the land of wilderness - I also took my best photo of a bald eagle to date.

Thought it was worth sharing; I'm quite proud:

CS

Tofino magic - part two

A first for me - we went whale watching while in Tofino.

We found a local company that provided warm suits - a good idea given how cold it is on the water. We were looking hot:

And our mode of transport was an over-sized yellow rubber dingy. Check it out:

Our preparation paid off! We saw numerous of grey whales (around 17 if my memory serves me well). Here is my best snap:

We also saw sea otters - very cute. These pair clearly only have eyes for each other:

CS

Tofino magic - part one

This weekend we went to Tofino for the first time with Dee and Bob, David's parents.

It was a truly magical weekend. We stayed in a log cabin right next to the beach & cooked fish on the BBQ. The scenery was stunning:

David and I also had our first surf of the season. It was great to get in the water, bob along with the waves and try a new board.

David was having the time of his life - he's never happier than when he's in the water.

CS

Hummingbird glory

I cannot take credit for these photos, but while exploring the North Shore Mountains with his parents, David captured some great images of a hummingbird. Check them out:

Hummingbird posing...

Hummingbird spreading his wings...

Hummingbird turned away - so you can see his pink-coloured head.

Impressive photography skills Mr Gilmour.

CS

Reifel and Boundary Bay

For the first day of the Gilmour family visit, we went to Reifel Bird Sanctuary and Boundary Bay - two great areas for seeing wildlife.

And we weren't disappointed! We lost count of the number of bald eagles we saw. We also spotted numerous snowy owls - my favourite.

Here is some photo evidence:

David trying to disguise himself....

Posing birdy (need help with identifying him)...

Snowy Owls...always a treat. A good start to the week!

CS

The Gilmour family arrives...

Today was the day that the Gilmour family descended on Vancouver...with the arrival of Dee & Bob, David's parents.

Neither slept on the plane - but both managed to stay up chatting until gone 11pm. It's going to be a fun-filled week!

CS