Keira-anne.com

I like rainy days. No wait, scratch that. I love rainy days. They lend to a particular sense of coziness that allows me to be lazy enough to stay indoors while invigorating enough to roll up my sleeves and get stuff done. I cleaned my entire apartment, cleared out hideous clothes I don’t wear anymore, junked old make-up from under the bathroom sink, bathed Jordy (who’s now fast asleep on the couch), baked cookies and prepped myself a margarita pizza from scratch.

As quaint as all that sounds, the other half of me is starting to feel restless for the coming days of endless sunshine… summer evenings in lush grass at the park, pitchers of crushed raspberry mojitos on the patio at Milestones (likely while practically living in this beauty through the sunny months), loading up on a bounty of fresh fruit and vegetables from the Coombs Market, sandy toes, sugary sweet ice cream dripping from hand-rolled sugar cones, wading in the ocean with my niece and my dog and a girls’ getaway week in New York City with Rebecca.

Instead of practically torturing myself with summer dreams, I decided to take a trip down memory lane in Flickrville and check out some of my favourite memories of Summer 2009.

Photo: John Bollwitt on Flickr

There’s a place on Vancouver Island that many hear of, most pass through and few ever experience its true beauty. With rolling hills, sea-kissed shores and lush, dense forests, the Cowichan Valley is a truly unique and unparalleled region.

Photo: ciboulette on Flickr

Stretching from the west coast to the east coast of Vancouver Island, the Cowichan Valley is certainly the Island’s most expansive area, covering more than 3,400 square kilometres. With a population of more than 76,000, the Valley is compromised of several First Nations reserves and a number of individual communities including Chemainus, Ladysmith, Crofton and Duncan.

Map: McPopa Real Estate

Water isn’t hard to come by in the Cowichan Valley. Though ocean shores lap each side of the Valley, it snuggles primarily around its namesake river and lake. The serene lake, located slightly northwest of Duncan, spans 30 kilometres. The Cowichan River is a popular swimming spot for locals and winds its way from the lake all the way to the Georgia Straight at Cowichan Bay.

Photo: Greg.b. on Flickr

Deeply steeped in a rich First Nations history, the Cowichan Valley is home to the largest First Nation tribe in British Columbia. With more than 3,800 registered members, about half reside on the nine local reserves. These reserves are comprised of seven traditional villages, specifically Kw’amutsun, Qwum’yiqun’, Hwulqwselu, S’amuna’, L’uml’umuluts, Hinupsum and Tl’ulpalus. [source]

Photo: Cowichan Tribes

Archaeological evidence points to the existence of the Cowichan band as far back at 4,500 years ago. Proudly self-sufficient, it’s currently governed by a chief and 12 councillors. Under the provisions of the Federally-enacted Indian Act, the band is responsible for making decisions that affect the community in the specific areas of child and family welfare, healthcare, housing and community social development.

Perhaps one of the most famous legacies of the Cowichan band is the fashion fever sprung out of their one-of-a-kind sweaters. Cowichan knitting originated with a two-bar loom method after being spun on a spindle and whorl. The earlier creations included blankets and leggings made out of mountain goat wool and dog hair before European-influenced production saw the emergence of the sweaters in the late 1800s.

Being that I was born and raised in a community with a strong First Nations presence, traditional Cowichan sweaters are something my family has worn for as long as I can remember. Pretty cute, right? Fashion mavens have been avidly seeking the Cowichan style through both locally-developed TNA sweaters and, more recently, the Cowichan-influenced sweaters sold by the Hudson’s Bay Company for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. The sweaters proved to be quite the controversy between the the Cowichan band and HBC as the Cowichan band were purportedly never offered the opportunity to provide genuine sweaters for the Olympics. After negotiations between both sides, the Cowichan band were eventually given licensing rights, allowing their creations to be sold at related pavilions during the Games.

Photo: ecstaticist on Flickr

Photo: timbarton on Flickr

Known as “The Warm Land”, the Cowichan Valley is quickly becoming one of Vancouver Island’s hot spots for wine and cider production. With barrels full of vineyards popping up in recent years, agri-tourism is notably boosting the region’s economy. In addition to vino, foodies will be easily tempted by the number of cheesemakers, jam makers, lavender growers and ethically-farmed chicken and lamb. Most of these producers operate out of farms that are open to the public, so do your research and plan some fun.

Photo: timbarton on Flickr

Photo: miss604 on Flickr

It’s nearly impossible to run out of day-trip ideas when in the Cowichan Valley. Lazy afternoons at Cowichan Lake, a quick ferry ride to Saltspring Island or exploring antique shops are some of the activities that can entice almost anyone.

Photo: RobertCiavarro on Flickr

Photo: hradcanska on Flickr

Driving through Duncan, it’s impossible to miss the world’s largest hockey stick. Originally built for Expo 1986, the stick now strikes across the local ice rink. Perhaps even more fascinating is the collection of handcrafted totem poles; Duncan is dotted by a whopping 80 poles.

Those instead interested in western arts and culture can stop in at the Chemainus Theatre in neighbouring Chemainus. The theatre’s stage often comes alive with plays year-round that are nothing short of impressive.

Photo: junemaffin on Flickr

Photo: Len not Lenny on Flickr

Sometimes the best things to spend your time doing are really nothing at all. The indescribable and natural beauty of the Cowichan Valley has to be experienced to be understood. Pine-scented air, sunsets that sparkle across the ocean and comforting breezes are nothing short of breathtaking.

Photo: maplemusketeer on Flickr

Photo: MISTER_BLACK on Flickr

The view from the top doesn’t hurt either…

The Cowichan Valley is located south of Nanaimo and north of Victoria along Highway 19. For more information on the region and its activities, accommodations and visitor information, visit the Cowichan Valley Regional District’s official website.

When my brother and I were children, my mom would sometimes bring home giant rolls of paper. I’d map out entire towns for my brother’s Hot Wheels cars. And when you were drawing rainbows and happy sunshine faces, I was taking pencil to ruler and sketching out floor plans. I’ve been fascinated with the layouts of homes for longer than I can remember. That said, you can imagine how excited I was to discover the basic blueprint for the infamous Skybreak House.

Located in The Warren, Radlett, Hertfordshire area of the UK and built between the years 1964-1966, it can be most easily recognized as HOME in A Clockwork Orange. Though the exteriors featured in the film are not that of the Skybreak House, this is one home that has me salivating at its interior design. If money weren’t a factor, I’d replicate it while simultaneously blowing up the square footage and maintaining the ratio.

My TV-watching hours are usually dominated by shows such as Property Virgins, Love It Or List It, House Poor or Take This House And Sell It. Room transformations are nothing short of addictive. Being that I’m hoping to upgrade to a larger and more permanent suite in a year’s time, the designs are becoming highly influential. Beyond gray paint and focal walls, I’m gathering some unique ideals. And if the Skybreak House wasn’t amazing enough already, it also features my latest obsession: barn doors.

Using chalkboard paint on a smaller wall surface charms, thrills and kills me.

Clearly a girl with kitchen savvy needs a workspace to reflect that. Given the choice, I will always choose stand-alone pieces over installed cabinetry because I prefer working in functional kitchen spaces. Some of my “I freakin’ wish” must-haves: butcher block island, industrial-sized porcelain basin, open concept storage and gas cooking.

I adore minimalist design in each and every room because it provides the perfect canvas for incorporating colours and pieces that inspire.

I’m kind of in love with platform beds but feel the pull into a torrid love affair with oversized headboards – particularly pseudo ones derived from art pieces or headboards of the upholstered variety. They make my heart go ga-gung.

Complimentary lamps and candles are not only essential but also add amazing beauty. Nothing, however, can top the perfection of natural light.

You will never, ever find the following in any home I ever live in: trinkets, shiny black appliances, anything made of oak, the colour yellow, enclosed entertainment units, paisley prints, bedding with a thread count below 400 or hutch units. Buffets, on the other hand, are not only acceptable but actually encouraged.

While I’m about 1,667 paychecks (and a lottery win) away from recreating the Skybreak House with some serious Keira-Anne styles, a girl’s gotta dream. After all, my body needs something to keep the adrenaline coursing between basketball games.

__________________________________________

Photos top to bottom: Bloody Disgusting; Bloody Disgusting; inhislight07; Remodelista; Peach and Pearl; Brightest Young Things; Yossawat; Home Design | Decoration | Lighting; Wonderlane on Flickr; Author’s own; Author’s own; this_could_be_my_house on Flickr; Modern Luxury Homes; ExinteriorDesign; Apartment Therapy; Martha Stewart Living; me*jo on Flickr; Crate and Barrel; Crate and Barrel; Crate and Barrel; Crate and Barrel; Trendir

The southern region of British Columbia has been bathed in sunshine for days on end, making February akin to April or May. In the spirit of all things warm and bright, I thought it would be rather fitting to check out some sunny snapshots of Vancouver Island.

Photo: chispita_666 on Flickr

Photo: cwangdom on Flickr

Photos: Rachel Fishman on Flickr; Paphio on Flickr

Photo: ecstaticist on Flickr

Photo: H2O Alchemist on Flickr

Photo: www.jeremylim.ca on Flickr

Photo: quaelin on Flickr

Photos: footloosiety on Flickr; Author’s own

Photo: miss604 on Flickr

Photo: Zbigniew Braniecki on Flickr

Photo: mel_j_ellis on Flickr

Photo: Author’s own

Photo: Cam in Van on Flickr

Photo: BaylorBear78 on Flickr

When Vancouver and Whistler were first awarded the 2010 Olympic Winter Games seven years ago, I was less than enthused. I’ve never been a fan of the Olympics generally and wasn’t pumped for them to be held in British Columbia specifically. My sentiments spent the next near-decade snowballing, tangling up in an avalanche of over-spending, criticizing reports, suffering social programs and homelessness to name a few. While you can talk to me until you’re blue in the face, I will never, ever agree that athletic facilities trump any of the problems within our Province that are rapidly deteriorating. That said, I also can’t deny the fact that the Games are very much here.

This is where I admit to waving the white flag, eat my words and declare my own hypocrisy. Despite it all, I am very, very excited for the celebrations at hand.

I suppose it began last Thursday. I made my way to 49th Avenue in an attempt to catch Steve Nash carry the torch and felt entirely unpatriotic. In a sea of red and white, I stood out like a sore thumb in my purple basketball jersey. I intended to get Nash’s attention and, seemingly, it worked. Without red and white, I felt entirely alienated so made the decision that I’d actually sport Canada’s colours the next day as the torch made its way past my office downtown.

The excitement on Georgia Street Friday morning was incredible with a sea of proud Canadians stretched, quite literally, as far as my eyes could see. And as we cheered, applauded and shouted, everyone was speculating who’d ultimately light the cauldron that night at BC Place Stadium. I had to admit that even I, the Olympic Cynic, was curious. [Cue that white flag I was telling you about.]

Curled up on my couch that evening, I sat mesmerized as so many of the beautiful elements of our country’s culture unfolded before millions of eyes around the globe. British Columbia is only a fraction of the rich tapestry that is Canada, made up of people, images, songs, history and events that have shaped and transformed the home in which you and I live today. Perhaps the hydraulic issue served as an unintended measure of proof that, despite how breathtaking Canada is, it is not perfect. We’d be fools to deny such flaws exist but can instead unite in the pride that threads through us all and hope that one day we’ll see a country in which the final pieces click into place.

I’ve been called many names in the past: Homebody, Little Miss Anti-Social and even Not A Joiner. While those labels can certainly ring true at the best of times, now is not one of them. The movement and spirit of Canadian pride has spread across this city like wildfire. Think of Vancouver as being likened to Zombieland – minus the fleshy tenancies but instead with a healthy dose of infectious patriotism.

The ’round-the-clock music, cheers, screams and partying no longer cause me to roll my eyes but instead stifle giggles. If anything, this event has served as a personal reminder of how truly magical British Columbia is. It’s easy to take the mountains and ocean and blue sky and fresh air for granted each day when it’s on my doorstep. To be given the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see those elements of our nation through the eyes of countless international visitors is a gift. While I certainly refuse to turn a blind eye to the critical needs on the streets of my city and in the towns of my province, it would also be a shame were I to miss out on such an amazing opportunity in my own front yard.

The strangest thing about this all is the notion that in a few short weeks, the streets will have emptied out, Robson Square will be once again quiet on my early morning walks to work and we will all be left wondering if it was just a dream…

Two years ago, when I brought Rebecca to Mount Washington Alpine Resort with me for a girls’ snowboarding weekend, she had told a friend or two about our pending trip. A few of the comments she got in response included: “I thought Mount Washington was in Washington State,” or “There’s a mountain on Vancouver Island?”

Photo: tempest_kat on Flickr

The answer to the second of those questions is an unequivocal “yes”.

Map: Comox Valley World Cup Organizing Committee

Half-way down the spine of mountains that runs north to south along Vancouver Island, towering majestically over the Comox Valley, outdoor enthusiasts will find the home of British Columbia’s deepest snowpack. In fact, the current base reaches a depth of 391cm (that’s more than 13 feet)!

Mount Washington Alpine Resort – A History of Logos. From left-right: 1979; 1981; 1996; 1998; and 2002

Named for Rear Admiral John Washington of the British Royal Navy, construction on the resort was launched in 1977 before the lifts at Mount Washington first whisked skiers to the peak in December of 1979. The powder-laden resort was an instant success, giving nearby Forbidden Plateau some serious competition.

Photo: ai.dan on Flickr

Photo: bmann on Flickr

In its 31-year history, Mount Washington has expanded to more than 1,600 acres of skiing and snowboarding thrills, nine high-capacity lifts, extensive nordic terrain, a condominium and chalet village, tasty eateries, slippery snow tubing and a legendary backcountry area.

Trail Map: Destination Snow

One might argue that Mount Washington’s greatest value is found in the stunning vistas, stretching out across the entire Comox Valley, the Georgia Straight and rugged peaks to the south.

Needless to say, it’s not been difficult to convince Rebecca to return with me. The cold beers at Fat Teddy’s Grill in the lodge may have had something to do with that.

Photo: Calypso Orchid on Flickr

Don’t let the copious snowfall at Mount Washington fool you. The resort is also a paradise for those who seek sunshine in the summertime. With winding hiking paths, frisbee golf, BBQ events, an epic network of mountain biking trails, an annual wine festival and even some shopping, there’s no shortage ways to fill your days.

Photo: mattdil on Flickr (used with permission)

Aside from the obvious attractions, Mount Washington is also home to the endangered Vancouver Island marmot . This species is native only to the sub-alpine meadows of Mount Washington and, thanks to tireless recovery efforts, the wild marmot population has been increased from 25 to 100 since 2001. Keep your eyes open – they aren’t easy to spot! However, you may also find yourself face-to-face with bears, cougars or elk amongst the woodland.

With glistening snow and crisp air, these pictures do more than speak for themselves. Next time you find yourself visiting Vancouver Island – or exploring your own backyard – you owe it to yourself to discover the crown of the Comox Valley.

Mount Washington Alpine Resort is accessible by car at the top of an entirely paved parkway; chains are encouraged (and sometimes mandatory) throughout the winter months. From the inland Island Highway (Highway 19), take exit 130 onto Strathcona Parkway – the resort is located at 1 Strathcona Parkway. For more information, call the resort at 1-888-231-1499 or visit their website. You can also follow the resort’s updates on Twitter.

Photos (Top to Bottom): Hunter Boots; Wüsthof Knives; both dresses Diane von Furstenberg; KitchenAid; Urban Outfitters; Apple; Stuart Weitzman at Nordstrom; FashionBeans

Honest to a fault and too kind to be cruel, Tony Pierce is a rare gem. As the sole author of the long-running busblog and chief blog editor for the LA Times, never a dull word is uttered from his mouth. That is, of course, if you manage to catch him long enough for a conversation.

Photo: miss604 on Flickr

Throughout our friendship, Tony has interviewed yours truly on two occasions and has even orchestrated an interview between myself and Taylor Hanson (yup, the “Mmmbop…” guy). Never once has he sat down to be interrogated by me – until last night.

Keira-Anne: Good evening. Let’s start by getting your name out of the way.

Tony Pierce: My name is Andy Warhol and I’m here to sell you soup. Actually, paintings of soup cans.

KA: Are you selling anything else, Andy Warhol?

TP: Nope, just soup. I also go by a more common name of Tony Pierce

KA: Did your mama name you Anthony?

TP: She did! Anthony Hugh Pierce III.

KA: That’s a rather distinguished name. Why did you drop the a, n, h and y?

TP: There was a tax on consonants where I grew up. So repressive!

KA: That’s rather unfortunate. I hope it didn’t break your mama’s heart. Moving on… Did you have a favourite pair of pajamas when you were a little boy? Maybe some flannels with a bunch of Cs for the Cubs all over them?

TP: Hmmmm that was so very long ago. I’m sure I did, I just cant recall that far back.

KA: Were the Cubs even in existence in the ’50s?

TP: Yes, they were just figuring out how to successfully lose for a living. Their last world series win was in 1908, so by the ’50s they were almost in stride.

KA: That’s appalling. Let’s talk about sports later on. When did you make the move from Chicago to Los Angeles?

TP: I moved here the day after my high school graduation. I was 17.

KA: I like that you’re not getting any more specific than that. You were so young, so fresh and so impressionable. Were you frightened on your first day in LA?

TP: Indeed. I had gone from kindergarten all the way to graduating high school in Illinois. I knew everyone, so moving here not knowing one soul was weird, but I was up for it. I mean, I knew what family I had out here, but no one my own age.

KA: Can you tell me what your first great memory of LA was? You know… that pinnacle moment where you realized you made the right decision.

TP: There’s this free weekly newspaper out here called the LA Weekly and they list all the bands that are gonna play and where all the movies are. Even though I didn’t like to dance, I figured I should go to a dance club to meet girls.

KA: That’s never a bad idea.

TP: So the Weekly said I should try this one club because it was a mix between the bar in Star Wars and the wildest orgies in ancient Rome. LITTLE DID I KNOW that meant it was a gay and lesbian club.

KA: They didn’t specify that in the small print?

TP: NOT AT ALL. So I stood stunned as I saw two super hot girls make out and I was all “I’m in HEAV-“ and this dude tapped me on the shoulder.

KA: Did your stomach drop at that moment?

TP: Looks like probably exactly like how your dad looks and said “wanna dance?”

KA: I guess strapping, young black men from the mid-west were his thing. Did you oblige him?

TP: No, I ran out of the club and sped out of the garage as fast as I could with a huge WELCOME TO LA feeling in my heart.

KA: Have you been back to the Star Wars Orgy since?

TP: When I told my friends about it, they were all, “a gay and lesbian dance club? Hell, we woulda’ burned down such a place in IL“. And interestingly enough this place, The Odyssey, was burned down a few months after I went there.

KA: There’s some culture shock for you… There’s a gay club in Vancouver called the Odyssey as well.

TP: See, maybe that’s a thing that we straights don’t know.

KA: Perhaps it’s a chain. What’s the one thing about LA you wouldn’t trade for anything else?

TP: People talk about the pretty girls, but you’re proof that there are gorgeouser women in Canada.

KA: Is it all talk?

TP: No, there are definitely pretty girls here.

KA: You make me blush and I’m not even the one being interviewed.

TP: Ha! Some say they like bumping into celebrities in LA, but we are now letting Canada steal our movie and TV biz.

KA: It’s true. BC is kind of a Mecca for that stuff now.

TP: So I would say it’s the weather. There’s nothing better than wearing shorts in January.

KA: How about not wearing shorts in January?

TP: Bottomlessness is frowned upon in the lower 48, but I’m glad that Canada is setting trends.

KA: What about Hawaii and Alaska?

TP: Palinville and Punanyland? They don’t really count.

KA: Fair enough. So tell me… what is so special about Los Angeles that they deserve not one but two NBA teams?

TP: LA deserves two teams of all great sports. The fact that we have zero football teams is just LA being funny.

KA: If that’s your logic, then the same should be said about Vancouver. What happened to the Raiders?

TP: The Raiders were here for 15-16 years, something like that. And Uncle Al… all he wanted was a kickass stadium – one with luxury boxes. LA promised they’d hook him up.

KA: Hold on… Uncle Al?

TP: Al Davis. The one and only owner of the Raiders.

KA: Okay. Keep going.

TP: N.W.A even has a line about him: “And quit giving juice to the Raiders / Cuz Al Davis / Never paid us“.

KA: Sounds hostile.

TP: The Raiders are silver and black because Al is color blind and he wanted the fans to see things like he does. He’s the original gangsta, which is why N.W.A loved him.

KA: Tony, you teach me something new every time I talk to you.

TP: Hahaha – menial trivia I’m sure.

KA: Someone somewhere will be interested in that fact. I, for one, am. That said, Lakers or Clippers?

TP: I am not a Kobe fan. But it’s hard not to be a Phil Jackson fan. I really wish the Clip Show was more competitive, because I would go to more of their games if they were.

KA: Nice lead-in. Kobe Bryant replaced Jerry West as the Lakers’ all-time leading scorer in tonight’s game. Does that do anything for you?

TP: Not really. Kobe began playing for the Lakers right outta high school. He’s almost always had great players around him. Jerry West spent four years in college.

KA: It’s okay. The Lakers lost to the Grizzlies tonight anyway. Point proven.

TP: See? Here’s another weird trivia bit that you may not be aware of but maybe you are.

KA: Do tell…

TP: The NBA logo is Jerry West.

Logo courtesy of NBA; Photo of Jerry West courtesy of Hoopedia

KA: Reeeeeeally? Kobe’s credibility between you and I just keeps getting weaker and weaker.

TP: Yep.

KA: That is nothing short of rad.

TP: I know!

KA: I can’t go any further without complimenting you on your spelling and grammar. I’m a bit particular about it myself – obsessive almost. How important is spelling, grammar and sentence structure in blogging?

TP: it all depends on what kind of blogging you’re doing.

KA: Is it important to you?

TP: Very.

KA: Phewf.

TP: I’m trying to do something arty. When it’s at its best, which it hasn’t been in a while, it should look drunken and wasted and nutz.

KA: Blogging ebbs and flows.

TP: Life ebbs and flows and you can’t always be the artiste you wanna be.

KA: Do people still use a “z” to pluralize?

TP: It all depends on what I’m trying to evoke.

KA: I bet you say “zee”.

TP: I think the Lord has blessed us with a large pallet in which to paint from, so we should use everything – but in the right way.

KA: Speaking of, if you weren’t a hot shot with the LA Times and the sole author or the busblog, do you think you would have instead been a man of the cloth? You make this too easy for me. It’s like you’re reading my mind.

TP: If only I could read minds, I would use that power for the hottest evil.

KA: More about that in a moment…

TP: Which is probably why they wouldn’t allow me in any monastery.

KA: True. But you’re pretty tight with the G-man, no?

TP: I am a devout believer, yes.

KA: That makes two of us. I’m diggin’ Isaiah these days.

TP: I just finished first Kings, so I’m still thinking a lot about David. I will be on Isaiah soon!

KA: Good!

“I read The Bible once. You know God and Jesus and all them apostles? They were all fishermen, just like me. Yeah, straight to heaven for Mick Dundee. Yep, me and God, we’d be mates.”

Is it that simple?

TP: Let’s hope! They say you go by the Grace of God, so who knows.

KA: And probably by the sweat of your brow.

TP: If I get in, it will be after much deliberation. Unlike you, I wont get a unanimous vote.

KA: I don’t know – I think things are a bit more cut and dry than that… especially in real life. Which merit do you think would earn me that unanimous vote?

TP: A) You’re a virgin;
B) you’re Canadian;
C) your blog design is gorge;
D) you love animals;
E) you love nature;
F) when you touch yourself you think of angels and butterflies;
G) you are super sweet to even those you don’t have to be…

KA: I don’t think my ego can handle you getting all the way to zee, but that’s a good start.

TP: Hahaha.

KA: Remember when we hung out in Vancouver about 20 years ago?

TP: Best summer vacation I’ve ever had!

KA: What’s so repulsive about this city that’s kept you away since? Does Vancouver smell funny?

TP: Vancouver smells so good that even its worst aroma is Hells Angels selling weed.

KA: I don’t think they sell it. I think they have other people that sell it for them.

TP: Whatevs, that whole block smelled awesome.

KA: If you come back to Vancouver this summer, we’ll go to the arcade again. And I’ll even let you borrow Jordy to go for a walk and pick up chicks.

TP: The reason I have never come back goes along those lines… I really got a massive crush on Foxy.

KA: I know you did.

TP: And it would be hard for me to not stalk her if I returned. Which isn’t the way you wanna roll when in Canada.

KA: Would she be upset if you stalked her?

TP: It’s hard to tell because she plays it so cool. She hardly ever writes me back when I write her, so who knows if she just doesn’t wanna talk or if she hates me.

KA: And you definitely don’t want to be a needy chick to Foxy.

TP: I don’t wanna be needy to anyone. I don’t mind chasing, but I don’t wanna be annoying.

KA: That’s a good balance. But the offer stands. My dog is a total magnet. You’d have hot chicks flocking to you like bees to honey.

TP: I’ve always had great luck up there, so I wouldn’t doubt it!

KA: Multiple luck from what I’ve heard.

TP: I think the girls are just tired of naturally handsome locals.

KA: “Naturally handsome locals” isn’t really an accurate blanket statement. Do you still have this shirt?

TP: Indeed I do! I’m thinking about wearing it to this really cool Super Bowl party on Sunday. It’s the cheesiest shirt I own, so why not?

KA: Who’s playing in the Super Bowl this year? New Orleans and…

TP: Peyton Manning’s Indy Colts.

KA: Are you placing any bets?

TP: I’m not, but if I was, I’d bet on the Colts – they have the experience. But my heart is with the Saints.

KA: Is that just your hunch talking?

TP: No. I just feel for the city of New Orleans and I know how much more important this would be for them. Indy has… oh so much but New Orleans could use a break.

KA: You know, I was thinking the same thing tonight as I watched the Suns in NOLA. Plus they’re down their star point-guard. A win would’ve been great for the city’s morale.

TP: Trust me, I am in 7 NBA fantasy leagues and I drafted that point guard #1 in three of those leagues. I know all too well about that sitch.

KA: Does that mean you’re out money?

TP: No I never play fantasy for $. People cheat enough as it is, but if it was for $ I’m afraid they’d totally cheat worse, and block me from making incredible trades. Today, for example, I pulled the trigger on a trade you may appreciate.

KA: Are you afraid of becoming addicted to gambling?

TP: The only thing I’m addicted to is blogging.

KA: That’s safe.

TP: Is it?

KA: You traded Amar’e Stoudemire, didn’t you?

TP: Close, Derrick Rose for the injured Carlos Boozer.

KA: That really doesn’t impact me either way.

TP: Me, I think it’s a brilliant trade.

KA: Plus, we got whipped by Utah last week.

TP: See, they’re really good. Some would say Boozer is their hidden reason.

KA: It’s possible, sure.

TP: But in fantasy he gives points, boards, blocks. Rose can only score and dole out a few assists.

KA: Fantasy sports, in my opinion, is really likened to WOW.

TP: Oh def – except with real people.

KA: Doesn’t it make you feel a little bit silly?

TP: No because it keeps me aware of EVERY team in the NBA, even the players on the bench.

KA: So there is some value to it.

TP: Tons. When I go to a game, I know every detail.

KA: Tony, we’ve been chatting for 53 minutes now. What kind of a feeling are you having about how we’re rolling?

TP: Chatting with you, Keira-Anne, is like dancing in the clouds with Gene Kelly.

KA: Would you be Gene Kelly?

TP: Wait, that’s a dude?!?! Aw crap.

KA: Yes.

TP: Ok, his girlfriend.

KA: You’d be his girlfriend?

TP: Chatting with you, Keira-Anne, is like being Spider-man upside-down kissing Kirsten Dunst in the rain while Sam Raimi directs.

KA: That was a hot kiss – very lippy. Have you ever kissed a girl like that?

TP: Not when it was raining.

KA: Were you wearing spandex?

TP: Just under my suit.

KA: So you were more like Superman…

TP: The only way I’m like Superman is that I work at a newspaper by day.

KA: And your name is cooler than “Clark”.

TP: Tony Pierce is a pretty good name, I must say.

KA: It’s a great name. May I compliment you for a moment?

TP: Hmmmm… fine.

KA: Woah, woah, woah… why the defense? (Do you like that I spelled it the American way just for you?)

TP: How are you supposed to spell it?

KA: In Canada we spell it as “defence”. Safari tells me that I just spelled it wrong.

TP: Ahhhh…

KA: For the record, I believe our French Canadian-influenced spelling looks odd. We also spell “center” as “centre”.

TP: Yes, I like that a lot.

KA: Anyway, enough deviation. I would just like to say that I enjoy speaking with you because you are one of those extremely rare people that expects authenticity from others while seemingly accepting them for who they are. And that, my friend, makes my heart happy.

TP: Awwww thank you! I don’t expect people to be authentic, but I’m very happy when they trust me enough to cut the act.

KA: Perhaps that’s a better way of articulating what I meant. You have a knack for encouraging people to cut the crap.

TP: I’m glad you feel comfortable with me. For sure!

KA: So as our time together draws to an end, is there anything that you want/need/wish the great people of Canada to know about you? Or do you simply want to bid us adieu and goodnight with a reminder of how warm it is in Cali right now?

TP: It’s not super warm here this minute.

KA: I bet it’s warmer than Vancouver.

TP: I have my little space heater on.

KA: I have my heater on in my little space.

TP: And no, I don’t want to try to convince Canada of anything about me. I trust that they will judge me accurately. I guess the only thing for me to say to the good people up there is “Thank You”. Mostly for visiting my site as much as they do and for always being welcoming and loving when I visit.

KA: Are the majority of your readers from Canada?

TP: At the bottom of my blog on the left rail it shows the countries. Right now it’s late, so almost everyone is from the West Coast of the USA. But during the day, when it matters, it’s about half Canada and half the USA.

KA: Well, whatever we may lack in numbers, we make up for in love and pixie dust for the busblog.

TP: Hooray!!! I do have one favor of you.

KA: Anything for you, Anthony Hugh Pierce III.

TP: I would like to ask you about your love life since we have been tracking it on the busblog. So table’s turned! Ms. Keira-Anne, tell us that you’re not still a single woman. Tell us that some smart man has swooped you up.

KA: Is the interviewee allowed to ask the interviewer questions?

TP: I believe you just said, “Anything for you, Anthony Hugh Pierce III“.

KA: This is true. I can’t deny what I said or eat my words.

TP: But since you are a gentlewoman I will allow you one no comment.

KA: I am still a single woman and no smart man has swooped me up.

TP: Now how again is this at all possible?? You walk to work?

KA: I do walk to work each day.

TP: And no guys smile as you pass by?

KA: Sometimes the construction workers. But more no than yes.

TP: When you go out with your friends to eat, or better, to drink, no guys send over a nice drink and wave?

KA: I had a guy buy me drinks on my birthday. Then I found out he was engaged. Who does that? Needless to say, I bolted.

TP: Dick! Do you have any single lady BFFs?

KA: Sure do. Well, single ladies. No BFFs for this girl.

TP: Am I to believe that you and your single ladies don’t go out 1-2 times a month to prowl the bars and/or bowling alleys searching for testosterone?

KA: You know that’s not how I roll.

TP: It’s just walking that catwalk. Letting the fools know what they lucked into.

KA: I do that every time I leave my apartment…

TP: Fair enough. You’ve answered more than one question, so thank you. One follow-up though, totally unrelated.

KA: Go for it.

TP: Power Windows… Sorry, Tinted Windows

KA: What about tinted power windows?

TP: Your boy leading that super group.

KA: Aww yeah Taylor Hanson. It didn’t really take off as much as it could have. But the thing is, he gels best with his brothers. Anything else he tries, in my opinion, will pale in comparison.

TP: Glad to hear it. I was afraid you’d drank the Kool-Aid.

KA: Never. Unless it’s lime.

TP: Awesome. Well thanks for the interview.

KA: No, no… thank you.

There is a special place on Vancouver Island, a place so incredibly unique that it seems almost magical. Winding pathways make their way between some of the oldest fir trees on the entire Earth, trees so tall they create a canopy that nearly entirely blocks out the blue sky above.

Photo: iGrrl on Flickr

Photo: Phillie Casablanca on Flickr

The park is certainly one of those “don’t blink or you’ll miss it” attractions, straddling a small stretch of Highway 4 roughly half-way between the communities of Qualicum and Port Alberni – a 20-minute drive from either direction. Known officially as MacMillan Provincial Park, it covers 301 hectares, including the shores of Cameron Lake and adjacent Cameron River.

Map: Cathedral Grove

Photo: oinegue on Flickr

It goes without saying that the old growth Douglas Fir trees are certainly the primary attraction to Cathedral Grove, some of which are more than 800 years old. The largest recorded tree in the park checks in at an astounding 76 metres (228 feet) with a 9-foot diametre and a circumference of 9 metres! Because of the precarious situations these ancient mammoths can cause, it’s not unusual to see the park entirely closed on windy days.

Photo: HomeExchange

Photo: tom hartley on Flickr

In the 1920s and 1930s, the land on which the park sits was a popular stop for tourists en route to or from Port Alberni. In 1929 a petition was put forth by the citizens of Vancouver Island and The Associated Boards of Trade of Vancouver Island to preserve the forest surrounding Cameron Lake. 15 years later, H.R. MacMillan donated a further 136 hectares of land, accounting for the park space that is used and enjoyed today.

Cathedral Grove – 1941
Photo: BC Archives – Forest Services (via Cathedral Grove Online)

Photo: ecstaticist on Flickr

Unfortunately, like many other parks of Vancouver Island, the logging industry has marred much of the surrounding landscape. The forestry line stretches right up to the park boundary, making it a virtual island of trees in the middle of a clear-cut. This has posed a significant threat to what remains of Cathedral Grove, as the protective wind barrier no longer exists, making the ancient growth susceptible to extensive wind damage.

Photo: anfearglas on Flickr

Photo: RightAntler on Flickr

Much to the thanks of various conservation groups, Cathedral Grove is still very much a thriving ecosystem. Home to more than simply trees, the park is also no stranger to woodpeckers, owls, insects, reptiles, amphibians, deer, elk, black bear and cougar. Cameron River contains no less than rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout.

Photo: jemerson4 on Flickr

Photo: pnay_gem on Flickr

When making your way across Vancouver Island, or simply looking for a day’s adventure, Cathedral Grove is a place that should not be missed. Hiking is available on the pathways on both sides of Highway 4 and leashed dogs are permitted. Please remember to respect the natural environment, stay on the trail system to avoid any damage to the flora and fauna and take all your garbage with you. How much longer this park will be around for to enjoy is up to you and me.

Photo: saltyseadog on Flickr

Cathedral Grove at MacMillan Provincial Park is located 16 kilometres east of Port Alberni and 25 kilometres west of Qualicum. From Highway 19 and Highway 19A take the exit to head west on Highway 4 toward Port Alberni; limited parking is available on both sides of the highway. Please visit the BC Parks website for further information.

Being that I’ve made trips to both Canadian Tire and Ikea in the last week in an effort to create some order out of chaos in my apartment, it was interesting that I received an e-mail from a reader two days ago. She wanted to know how I keep my home clean and clutter-free. Want to know a secret? Up until today, it definitely wasn’t clutter-free.

Aside from the bathroom, my 434 square-foot apartment was busting at the seams. I had cereal boxes and mixing bowls stacked on top of my fridge, no drawer wide enough for a cutlery tray, all my spices were balanced on the top edge of my stove and a dogpile of shoes was hangin’ out in the closet.

You know how most kitchens have a junk drawer? I had three. All my cupboards were crammed with pots, pans, packages and plastic containers. Each time I’d quickly shut one, I’d breathe a quick prayer hoping that it wouldn’t pop open and spill its contents.

All that changed today. The truth is, whether you’re a Monica or a hoarder or somewhere in between, when your apartment is this short on space, organization solutions are a must. I’m a minimalist by nature so the process was an easy one for me.

Keep only what you need or use on a very regular basis in your space. If you don’t use it or need it, throw it in storage or get rid of it entirely.

The smaller the space, the greater the waste. Just because a surface is empty doesn’t mean you have to utilize it. Storing items on window ledges, the tops of bookcases or, in my case, the top edge of the stove only lends to making the space look more cluttered.

I’ve learned that there really is a place for every item, but sometimes you have to think outside of the box. And sometimes you need to bring new (furniture) boxes into your space. I completely adore the metal rack I picked up for less than $100. A small investment can make the biggest difference.

I swear the space in my kitchen has doubled. Cooking and baking will be fun again (and even more fun once I buy myself a KitchenAid stand mixer very soon).

A minimalist space doesn’t have to be short on personality. These frames were only a few dollars each at Ikea and allow me to showcase a few of my favourites. I’m also big into colour and fabric. While almost a year later, I still haven’t decided on a piece of art for above my couch, my apartment is still warm and inviting with a few plush throws and cushy pillows.

My foyer closet, while spacious, was a disaster zone. Cookware, shoes, lighbulbs, a candle stash, tools, towels and laundry supplies and whatever else you can imagine were taking over. A hanging ironing board, hanging shoe caddy and proper bins for everything have made a world of difference.

And finally – finally – I have all my CDs and DVDs within reach of my fingertips in the Drona boxes from Ikea. Perfectly enough, their dimensions accommodate both forms of media in large volumes.

Any questions?