We took the water bus (False Creek Ferries) in the other direction this morning to check out Vancouver’s Olympic Village. It was quiet and peaceful, and the perfect area to stroll around in today’s sunshine, with awesome views of BC Place, Science World, and Vancouver skyline.
We walked along the water, across scenic bridges, and through grassy lawns. We explored the little playground and water park area, but the kids loved running around with pigeons best.
Out first time on the water bus across False Creek today! Syd loved looking at the other boats that passed us and searching for jellyfish. Nolie loved bird-watching the seagulls and cautiously observed the water bus operations.
We headed to Granville Island for some laid-back adventuring that included strolling through the market and shops. The kids’ favorite activity was dancing to the street musicians.
A highlight was Nolie’s blackberry passion for dinner tonight. They were local BC blackberries!
Nolie truly enjoyed the view from our rental condo this morning, and stood at the window for minutes at a time (an eternity, really, for a toddler). With a view onto the creek and a busy garbage truck route, who can blame him!
We took advantage of the building’s pool this morning, and then set off on quite an adventure this afternoon. Missions accomplished: buy cheapie umbrella stroller for upcoming outings and find/eat Hugo’s churros in Richmond. Two totally random items on our list that amazingly came together without the help of the Internet. We were directed to the Richmond Toys ‘R Us on our stroller hunt, and realized the churro place wasn’t far. Japadog for dinner and churro ice cream sandwich for dessert were the perfect ending to the day!
We dipped our foreign traveling toes into our new hometown’s waters by starting the day off at the uniquely situated downtown Costco. We stocked up on some produce and snacks for the kids, and enjoyed a leisurely weekday visit to the biggest of big box stores.
Not only were there some fun, local candy (Bounty candy bars) and dry goods brands (my fave – Dad’s Biscuits), but best of all, they have poutine on the hot food menu! So we ordered that and called it a day.
Well, we made it! Today is Day One of our first annual family month abroad! We’re taking it easy this first year and are in Vancouver. After a mostly calm drive, with a detour for some delicious cafe food in Bellingham, we arrived at our rented condo excited and relieved. The kids are thrilled to be in a new place, and were literally bouncing off the walls…well, their feet were!
We made it through our first afternoon (stocking up on groceries at Urban Fare), dinner, and bedtime routine, and I’m currently enjoying a beautifully-lit downtown Vancouver skyline. What an amazing adventure awaits us!