Being a Woman of Leisure in Vancouver

Mon. Aug. 20 - Sun. Aug. 26, 2007

2 crazians down, and 2 crazians left... to Jay's dismay.

After the girls went back to Toronto, I stayed with Jay and Fi for another week before moving into my new place. I have to say, Jay and Fi were the most gracious hosts. In addition to all the great meals they made, I was also given a week's education in "what boys like." In other words, I was exposed to the world of violent movies and tv shows. I don't think I've watched more CSI episodes (more than 10 in the week), violent romance movie (who knew a romantic movie could be so violent) and to top it off, I watched 2 Chinese (english subtitled of course) mobster movies! In addition, while at the Richmond Night Market (this market was a mini version of those in Hong Kong with many food and nik nak stands) we looked at all the samurai swords. Honestly, why would someone want a cane that just happens to have a pull out sword??? Anyhow, Jay reasoned the week of violence as conditioning me for my new west coast boyfriend...

Jay's Salmon & Broccoli dish with Sangria.



Fi's famous omlette.



I was really fortunate to have a week of absolutely beautiful weather. I took advantage of it and spent most of my day outdoors.

On my bikeride around the seaside, I passed Science World (White Sphere in the background) and came upon all these Inukshuk. I couldn't decide if they were all built at one time or people keep adding to the collection...



There is a lot of construction occuring in Vancouver right now in preparation for the 2010 Olympics. Therefore, there are many detours anywhere you go. On my bike ride around the Seawall, I had to take a detour that took me through a forested area (to tell you the truth, I was a tad bit worried for my safety) and at the opening, I fell upon this stunning pond. I can't remember the last time I've seen lily pads...



Another detour took me up quite the steep incline (so steep at times, I had to hop off my bike and walk up) and I ended up at the point where Sequoia Grill Restaurant is located. I've never been up at this point during the day before and I have to say it's just as beauitful during the day as it is at night.



View of the city and my bike.



Me laying on the bench and enjoying the view.



The SeaWall: I have to say, this is one of my favourite parts of the city. It's approx. 10km trail around the water/city. It's just a great feeling when you're either walking/running/biking/rollerblading around it. I love it!





One of the many beaches in the city. It maybe English Bay, but honestly there are so many small beaches around the city that I have yet to learn them all. Anyhow, a good indictor that the weather is beautiful out is how busy the beach is. It seems to be accepted that if there is great weather predicted for that day, everyone calls into work sick and heads to the beach! E.g. conversation overheard at Kits Beach. Situation: girl on the phone with her friend. Girl: "What do you mean you're at work? Why didn't you call in sick???" yes, this is true... prime example of laid back west coasters!




This is a beach area that I discovered when I was running one morning. It not only has stunning views (though I would be surprised to find an area in the city that doesn't have a great view), but it is also an off-leash area which means dogs can run loose on the beach. It is just sooo cute to see dogs doggy-paddling in the water to fetch sticks. I actually worry sometimes because there are times when the owners throw the sticks so far into the water, I'm unsure the dog would even make it! Anyhow, I can sit for hours here just watching the dogs...







On Saturday, Fi and Jay went to a wedding while I went to watch the UFC fight at Rose & the Horny Brothers house. It was awesome. Joe made an amazing meal of ribs, mashed potatoes, fried eggplant and corn. Talk about good lovin' food. Anyhow, initially I was basically there for the food not the fight. However, that quickly changed when the fight started. I have 2 new obsessions... George St. Pierre and Randy Couture

Anyhow, when I arrived home that night I found my Mur tied with balloons. Fi had hoped he would start to float, but I think his bean filled body kept him grounded. It still cracks me up when I see this pic...



On the Sunday, we spent the day in Richmond. It's just outside of the city where there are nice homes and lots of Asians. Anyhow, we were really there to visit Fi's aunt and uncle (who I stayed with last year when I was in vancouver) and their dog Gyoza. I swear I have never encountered such a hyperactive dog in my life. People think I'm exaggerating when I'm talking about her but this dog jumps up to my waist! She honestly has some sort of bounce in her hind paws!

In addition to the visiting, we also snuck in some shopping and some Wii playing time. Rose, Fi nor myself have ever played Wii and we were hooked. Though both Rose and Fi had Wii related injuries the next day. ha ha haaa.

Here we are at a Taiwanese restaurant. We were all quite impressed with the food and Rose wanted to take a pic of the food to make the boys jealous. ha ha ahaaa...