Sunday mornings are bitter-sweet for me. I think many of you know that I am so lucky to have my Mum and Dad still with me back home in lovely Forest, Ontario. They are the most resilient pair I have ever known and now reaching their mid 80’s and approaching their 50th wedding anniversary, they often greet me with the cheery, cheeky “we’re still on the right side of the grass, Pat.” Well, each Sunday we take turns phoning across the vast expanse of Canada that now divides us, giving updates on all things. Like how the Maple Leafs fared on Hockey Night in Canada the previous night (don’t ask!), or all the details of my sister Jen’s recent visit, and of course, we talk about the weather.

Well, this morning it was a more challenging discussion than others. I have heard that the weather back home has been frightfully winter-like and it has cooped my parents up inside for far too long. Over here, on the left coast, many of you know the weather has been remarkably cooperative. So much so that the apple and cherry blossoms have burst forth in their gorgeous profusion in February!! I took the snap above Friday evening on a drippy but mild day in stunning Victoria. Even raindrops on the blooms do not take away from the vivacious colour and warmth that these spring blossoms provide. When I took this shot, my immediate reaction was one that mirrored those old post cards we used to send entitled “Wish You Were Here.” Remember those? Well, after talking to Mum and Dad this morning I just wanted to find a way to teleport them here and take them on a warm, relaxing drive to see the spring sites here in BC. The distance between us seemed immense today!

For my friends and family back home, I always “wish you were here.” Please forgive me my spring snaps won’t you? If you can do that, then please join me over at my website where I’ve posted a few more, plus some striking sky-on-fire landscapes from Friday night on the island. Have a great week everyone!