From Harbour Breeze to Heritage Charm: Summer Farm Tour at London Farm in Steveston

 🚗 A Sunny Weekend Drive Along Dyke Road

It was a warm, golden weekend midday when we set off for Steveston Village in Richmond. The sunny roadside trip along Dyke Road felt like the perfect start — the sparkling harbour on one side, the mountains standing tall in the distance, and summer waterfront breeze drifting through the open window.  

Before reaching the farm, we stopped for an hour on the waterfront benches and pier along Dyke Road. The view was endlessly calming — boats gliding slowly past, the gentle hum of the water, and the occasional call of seabirds. It set the tone for a slow, beautiful day 

🏡 First Glimpse of the Heritage Farmhouse

Arriving at London Heritage Farm, the first thing we saw was its elegant Edwardian-style heritage house, standing proudly as it has since the 1880s, when it was built by the London family. Once the heart of a working farm supplying food to the growing Steveston fishing village, it is now carefully preserved as a window into Richmond’s agricultural past.  

🌸 Summer Blooms & Nature’s Soundtrack

The garden at London Heritage Farm is full of color and life. In the summer, bright flowers like roses, lavender, and sunflowers bloom in every corner. The paths are lined with green plants, and butterflies flutter from one flower to another. You can hear birds chirping in the trees and feel a gentle breeze as you walk through. The garden is peaceful and well cared for, with benches where you can sit and enjoy the view. It’s a lovely place to relax, take photos, or simply enjoy the serenity.

🐴 The Barn: Simple and Peaceful 

On the edge of the property stood the barn, a rustic reminder of the farm’s working days. Even now, its weathered wood holds the stories of harvests, hard work, and the hum of farm life in decades past.

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❤️ A Place That Belongs to Everyone

London Heritage Farm is more than a historical site — it’s a community treasure. Volunteers maintain the gardens, host seasonal events, and welcome guests year-round. The farm connects generations, offering educational programs, tea services, and a space for reflection and celebration.

Its significance lies in its ability to preserve Richmond’s history while remaining a vibrant part of its present.

🤔 Reflections on the day

As we left the farm in the warmth of midday sun, the scent of summer blooms still lingered in the air and the gentle sounds of birdsong echoed behind us. The heritage house, the vibrant flower garden, and the peaceful rhythm of the waterfront had offered more than just a visit — they gave us a moment to reconnect with nature, history, and the joy of slowing down.

London Heritage Farm reminded us that beauty lives in the simple things: a quiet bench by the harbour, a garden in full bloom, and stories preserved in time. It’s a place that invites you to pause, reflect, and appreciate the richness of your surroundings.

If you’re seeking a weekend escape that nourishes the soul and inspires the senses, this little corner of Steveston is waiting to welcome you — just as it did us.

©️ 2025 Del Cusay

 

Summer Stroll at Steveston Harbour Waterfront: Discover History, Nature & Community

There’s something magical about Steveston Harbour in the summertime.Tucked into the southwestern edge of Richmond, British Columbia, this historic fishing village offers more than just postcard-perfect views—it’s a place where heritage, nature, and community spirit come together in the most beautiful way.

🌤️ Sunshine and Summer Breezes

Our stroll began under a vibrant blue sky, with the sun warming our shoulders and a gentle breeze whispering through the trees. The air carried the scent of saltwater and cedar, and the rhythmic sound of waves lapping against the docks set the tone for a peaceful, soul-refreshing walk. It was the kind of summer day that invites you to slow down and savor every moment.

🚴‍♀️ Fitness on the Waterfront

As we made our way along Dyke Road, we passed a steady stream of cyclists—some in sleek gear, others on vintage cruisers—gliding along the waterfront road. Joggers and walkers enjoy the sandy terrain and panoramic views of the harbour. The waterfront is clearly a favorite among fitness enthusiasts who find inspiration in the open sky and flowing river.

🎣 Fishing and River Life

At the pier, a few fishermen cast their lines into the Fraser River, hopeful for a catch. Large fishing vessels glided on the water while sleek speedboats zipped past, creating frothy wakes and waves that sparkled in the sunlight. It was a harmonious blend of industry and leisure, all moving in sync with the rhythm of the river.

🪑 Benches with a View

Along the harbour are benches placed for quiet reflection. We found a good one and sat for a while while sipping a cold drink and watching the boats drift by. The view was mesmerizing—fishing boats sailing through the harbour, birds soaring high above, and the distant mountains and Islands. It was a moment of stillness in a place that never stops moving.

A summer stroll at Steveston Harbour isn’t just a walk—it’s an experience. It’s history you can touch, nature you can breathe, and community you can feel. If you haven’t been, make it your next destination. And if you have, you already know: Steveston stays with you long after you leave.

©️ 2025 Del Cusay

A Journey Through Time at Britannia Shipyards in Steveston

Britannia Shipyards is a captivating blend of history and natural beauty on the Fraser River. The Shipyards offer an immersive experience, with restored buildings that tell the stories of the fishing community. Walking through the shipyard, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, from the clanging of tools to the stories of those who lived and worked there. It's a living museum, perfect for history enthusiasts and curious wanderers alike.

Britannia Shipyards, which began in the 1880s as a cannery and evolved over the years, ceased operations as a shipyard in the early 1980s. Today, it stands as a National Historic Site, meticulously preserved to offer visitors a glimpse into its rich history and cultural significance.

Chinese Bunkhouse 

Initially built for Chinese workers, the Chinese Bunkhouse showcases their crucial role in the fishing industry. Despite facing discrimination and harsh conditions, they contributed significantly to Steveston's economy. The bunkhouse stands as a testament to their enduring spirit and community life. 

The Chinese Bunkhouse features narrow, double-decked sleeping quarters, simple wooden furnishings, and functional communal areas. Original artifacts like tools, cooking utensils, and personal belongings paint a vivid picture of daily life and a strong sense of community among the workers. 

The Chinese workers faced discrimination, including lower wages compared to other workers, segregated living conditions, and limited rights. Despite their crucial contributions, they were subjected to racism and exclusion, reflecting the harsh social inequalities of the era.

It's inspiring to know that many descendants of the Chinese Canadians who lived in the bunkhouse are still in British Columbia, contributing to the province's cultural richness. They've integrated into various communities, honoring their heritage through cultural events and associations and sharing stories of their ancestors' resilience. 

Seine Net Loft 

Walking through the Seine Net Loft illuminated the scale of the fishing industry with its massive equipment and tales of hard work.

Located in the heart of Britannia Shipyards, the Seine Net Loft, constructed by the skilled workers of the local fishing industry in the 1950s, stands as a testament to Steveston's rich fishing heritage. This historic structure played a role in the evolution of fishing technology and remains a vibrant part of the community's history and culture.

Today, families and their children can embark on an exciting journey through interactive exhibits like "Our Coastal Connection" and "Our Changing Waterfront." These exhibits bring the history of Britannia Shipyards to life in a way that's both educational and entertaining.

The Murakami House

The Murakami House in Steveston is a significant cultural landmark, reflecting the history and contributions of the Japanese-Canadian community in the area.

The Murakami House belonged to the Murakami family, which consisted of Japanese-Canadian fishermen in Steveston. The house has been preserved to reflect the family's living conditions and lifestyle, providing a glimpse into the community's history. It features artifacts, photographs, and displays that tell their story. 

I've learned that many descendants of the Japanese-Canadian families who once worked at Britannia Shipyards still live in British Columbia, with some in the Richmond area, preserving their heritage and contributing to the community in various fields. 

Stilt Houses 

Exploring the stilt houses transported me to a time when the river was a central part of daily life. The colorful exteriors of these homes added a touch of vibrancy to the scenery.

The Stilt Houses are iconic homes built on wooden stilts along the Fraser River. Initially, they housed workers from the fishing and canning industries. Today, they offer a vibrant glimpse into the multicultural community life of early settlers, preserved as part of the national historic site.

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A stroll along the Fraser River capped off the day with the sight of families enjoying the Family Day celebrations by the water, a heartwarming reminder of community spirit. Steveston is a treasure trove of history and stories, and I want to explore more!

Our visit to Britannia Shipyards was a walk in history, in the footsteps of fishermen, boatbuilders, and their families. The blend of preserved buildings, interactive exhibits, and tranquil waterfront views creates a connection to the past while imagining its future.

©️ Del Cusay 2025

𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰: 𝗢𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿

𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠, 𝙬𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩'𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙛𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙢𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙧𝙚𝙨. 𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙬𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙥𝙥𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚, 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙬𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨; 𝙬𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙬𝙞𝙣 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙛𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩.

As I celebrate the Lunar New Year of 2024, I desire to be fearless and feisty. I must leave the energy of living in fear to unblock energies leading to success and prosperity.

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This year's Lunar New Year is special as we celebrate Vancouver's 50th Annual Lunar New Year Parade. Thousands of spectators participated and attended this colorful and festive event.

As I immerse myself in the vibrant celebrations of Vancouver's 50th Annual Lunar New Year Parade, I am struck by the profound sense of community and inclusivity in Chinatown. This event transcends cultural boundaries, uniting people from diverse backgrounds in a shared experience of joy and excitement. Whether it's their first Lunar New Year or a familiar tradition, everyone is welcomed and feels the blessings of the Deity or Supreme Being.

It's the enthusiasm to feel connected to a unique and beautiful culture. It's the eagerness to learn and understand about a strong and vibrant culture. 

This year, as we welcome the auspicious Wood Dragon, I am reminded of the profound influence of a positive mindset. In Chinese beliefs, the Wood Dragon is the luckiest of all the animal signs, symbolizing high luck and prosperity. This resonates deeply with me, as I have experienced firsthand the power of a positive mindset in attracting positive manifestations.

Over the years, I have celebrated the Lunar New Year with joy and anticipation. Each celebration has been a testament to the power of positive manifestations in starting the year on a hopeful note. From new beginnings to auspicious celebrations, each Lunar New Year has brought its unique blessings and lessons. 

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2013: A New Beginning

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2017: An Auspicious Celebration

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2018: Prosperity and Abundance

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2019: Luck, Prosperity, and Faith

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2020: Love, Peace, and Harmony 

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2022: Desire and Destiny 
• 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯: 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲

I've learned to integrate cultural beliefs that are not unknown to me. It makes me happy to accept something new and believe in myself when it inspires positivity in those who believe.

My desire for this year is about the most valuable thing; to have the willpower to achieve my greatest desires and destiny. Luck and prosperity happen when I fight what's unwanted and unleash the fire within to bring out the best in me.

©️ 2024 Del Cusay

𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯: 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲

𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙙𝙤 𝙬𝙚 𝙚𝙭𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨? 𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙙𝙤 𝙬𝙚 𝙖𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚 𝙥𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙙? 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙙𝙤 𝙬𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙧𝙩𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙨?

Our journey to a bigger world begins with the power of self-discovery. As we delve deeper into our own being, we unearth our potential and the profound impact we can have on the world around us. This process also liberates us from the shackles of fear and doubt, empowering us to shape our own destinies. 

It all starts with a simple question: Who are we, and what can we do to bring about positive change? This introspective journey can lead us to discover our unique abilities and how we can make a lasting impact on the lives of others and the communities we are part of. 

As we celebrate the year of the water rabbit, according to the Chinese animal sign, we have a moment of introspection for our greatest rediscovery and restart of our lives. 

The rabbit sign signifies springtime or rebirth, just as we would want to start a new world of living and experience. 

The rabbit is a gentle animal that commands peace and harmony. Like us, we would want to avoid hostility and violence in our thoughts and intentions. 

For me, the Lunar New Year is not just a cultural celebration, but a time for personal growth. It's when I do my yearly introspection, a great opportunity to make changes within ourselves, unblocking the path to peace and prosperity. 

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2013: A New Beginning

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2017: An Auspicious Celebration

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2018: Prosperity and Abundance

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2019: Luck, Prosperity, and Faith

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2020: Love, Peace, and Harmony 

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2022: Desire and Destiny 

Like many of you, I too am hopeful for a better life in the year of the water rabbit. We all yearn for brighter days and make decisions that we hope will lead us to a more fulfilling path. 

As we look forward to the year ahead, we must also take action to turn our hopes and dreams into reality, even in uncertainty. Our energy and determination will elevate our consciousness and enable us to live the fulfilling life we deserve—living our life ahead of its time. 

©️ 2023 Del Cusay

𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗲𝗮 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗸𝘆 𝗚𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗹𝗮 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗵

𝙄𝙩'𝙨 𝙖 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙗𝙮 𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩'𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙎𝙚𝙖 𝙩𝙤 𝙎𝙠𝙮 𝙂𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙤𝙡𝙖 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙤𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙟𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙘 𝙧𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙝𝙞𝙜𝙝 𝙪𝙥 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙠𝙮. 

This outdoor destination, located in Squamish, is one of the best places to visit in British Columbia. The breathtaking sea view from the sky and on top of the mountain is worth the experience. It's exhilarating and truly spectacular. 

Let's explore this stunningly beautiful destination in Squamish, an hour's drive from North Vancouver, passing through the scenic sea-to-sky highway. 

From the base station, The Sea to Sky Gondola is a 10-minute/ 2 km ride to the summit. You'll see the forested mountain and the beautiful turquoise waters of the sea (Howe Sound) as you ascend to a higher elevation until reaching the summit lodge, which offers the most spectacular view of the surrounding mountain, the valley, and the sea. 

The summit lodge has restaurants and cafes for refreshments, which extend to the outdoor patio and viewing deck, offering a view of the magnificent snow-capped mountains. 

The adventure never stops as you experience the surrounding trail network, passing through the 100-meter Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. We walked through the most accessible trail (Spirit) and the best trail (Panorama), leading to the Chief Overlook Viewing Platform, where you can capture the best shots of the snow-capped mountain as a backdrop. 

While some trails may take longer to explore, you'll always be aware of your surroundings, as all trails lead and end at the summit lodge viewing deck. The courses are designed for beginners and intermediates, ensuring a family-friendly hiking experience. With viewing areas and platforms for picture-taking, you can capture memorable moments without any difficulty. 

The Sea to Sky Gondola is an adventure that never ends, with its appeal stretching across all seasons. Whether it's the hot, dry summer or the snowy, chilly winter, the nature trail and the viewing platforms are always alluring. Each season offers a unique perspective, making it worth revisiting throughout the year. 

The land of the Squamish First Nation is home to the Sea to Sky Gondola. The Squamish protect and preserve the beauty of their heritage and share it with everyone. It's not just about fun and adventure but also about the rich culture, early beginnings, and evolution as a First Nation. Visitors can learn about their traditions, art, and history during their visit. 

Sea to Sky Gondola is one of the most incredible adventures of a lifetime in British Columbia. It's a place to go and chill, an adventure by nature with a thrill. 

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

Surrey Fusion Festival Returns at Holland Park

The largest and most diverse festival in Western Canada returns in its 15th year. We celebrated and enjoyed a weekend of multicultural understanding and experiencing diversity in food, culture, live music, and entertainment.

British Columbians and Surrey residents once again gathered at Holland Park, a symbol of our resilience and the return to normalcy, two years after the pandemic. It had the largest crowd since it started in 2008, a hopeful sign of a more lively scene where everyone could enjoy various cultural offerings from different countries worldwide.

This year's Surrey Fusion Festival theme is COMMUNITY. A single word that describes how the world must be in difficult times where global health threats have affected us to live, interact, and socialize. The theme of 'COMMUNITY' was chosen to emphasize the importance of coming together and supporting each other during these challenging times, and to celebrate the strength and resilience of our diverse community.

The 40 pavilions, a vibrant tapestry of cultures, included the Latin countries of Bolivia, Argentina, and Columbia; Asian countries like India, Vietnam, and Indonesia; African countries like Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria; European countries like Germany, France, and the Netherlands; Southwestern Pacific countries like Tonga and Fiji, and Caribbean countries like Barbados and the Cayman Islands. Each pavilion was a unique window into their food, culture, arts, music, and dance.

The pandemic seems over as the crowd cheers for fun and a manic vibe. The delicious authentic food, arts, dance, and music draw people to taste and experience world cultures in one venue.

Other features include a wellness garden, a serene space where people can learn and experience yoga and meditation, and an Indigenous Village where visitors can learn about Indigenous culture through traditional cultural sharing. Global beer and wine tasting offers the chance to sip some cold beverages from around the world, and a cultural cooking arena hosts a cooking competition. Also, there are stages where world-class performers share their talents with the crowd.

It was a great experience to have celebrated the Surrey Fusion Festival for the first time, and I would be glad to make it a yearly event to celebrate and have fun. Community is about the spirit of camaraderie that builds bridges for multicultural understanding and inclusivity. We unite to bring peace, love, and compassion to make our world a better place to live in and for the next generations to preserve and enrich their own culture for the world to see and embrace.

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

White Rock Gallery: Beyond the Frame

To appreciate art, one must understand the most profound emotion, its meaningful realization, and the validation of purpose and intention.

That's the uplifting lesson I learned from a visit to an art gallery in White Rock, British Columbia. It's a city by the sea where arts, history, and culture thrive amidst the test of time and where I discovered the joy of art appreciation.

An art gallery may be different from the usual place to visit today. It may not be welcoming but intimidating to others interested in or appreciating fine arts.

Since 2012, I've learned to admire and appreciate works of art and masterpieces in the Cultural Center in my home country, the Philippines. I've carried the same passion and admiration whenever I visit another country or place with a high regard for culture and the arts.

In Metro Vancouver, British Columbia, every city has a public art gallery open to everyone, and the White Rock Gallery is one of the most beautiful places to be. It was my first Art Gallery experience in Canada and was a profound realization of the value of art galleries.

Nowadays, people choose modern forms of entertainment and have yet to discover and learn about the joys of visiting an art gallery or exhibit. However, fine artists and art enthusiasts have devoted their time, resources, and money to making art more relevant in today's generation.

What makes art galleries intimidating to others is that we need to appreciate and decode their meaning from the artists' perspective or point of view. We couldn't interpret abstract paintings or even find meaning in realistic images.

With our smartphones, we can take a raw picture of a place, edit it, and call it art. It's the most accessible form of art we can do. However, fine art demands time, energy, emotion, and soul to create a more valuable masterpiece, so paintings and sculptures are expensive. 

We tend to ignore or snub expensive things because we can't afford them. Like fine arts, some wouldn't appreciate its value because they can't relate to and find meaning in a painting. But to afford it isn't just about owning it. It's also about enriching our life experience and worth as human beings just by visiting an art gallery, even once in a lifetime.

Art is part of our culture, and a deep appreciation and admiration give us a particular connection with our community. Art evokes various emotions, from joy to sorrow, awe to puzzlement. It moves us, touches our souls, and makes us love at first sight, creating a deep sense of empathy and connection.

As I viewed the gallery, some paintings attracted my attention, drew me closer to scrutinizing, and finally gave meaning to them. It gave me happiness and a sense of belonging to a community of artistic people who have the desire for understanding, passion, and motivation for self-expression.

©️  2022 Del Cusay

Holy Week 2022: A Journey to Paradise

The earth is healing. That's the message of hope and love this Holy Week. As we witness the signs of nature's rejuvenation, we are reminded of the healing power of God's love. While the pandemic may not have ended, we can take comfort in the fact that we are not living in fear and prolonging the agony. This is a time for spiritual healing and renewal.

We desire to travel this Lenten season. This way, we get a new perspective on life. We cross borders and travel across the sea—a hundred miles of the journey, with immeasurable faith in Thee. 

We journey to a paradise to see and feel God's heavenly creation, this time in Victoria, the capital of British Columbia. With its natural beauty and rich history, Victoria is a perfect backdrop for our spiritual journey. It's a charming city rich in history—a story from the First Nations passed down from generation to generation.

A walk around downtown Victoria envelops me in a sense of tranquility, reminiscent of a distant past where laidback living thrives even in the present. I feel the calmness, serenity, and relaxed vibe I'm eager to experience. It's a place to explore, find meaning, and start a new beginning.

The message of God is evident; beyond suffering is a promised land where we live a heavenly experience. We walk with unwavering faith and allow suffering as we carry the cross toward our destination and salvation. We do not fear, but we trust God's will. 

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

The Cherry Blossoms at David Lam Park

Spring has sprung. At this time of year, we experience a renewed season filled with joy as we see flowers blossoming.

Springtime reminds me of rebirth and reinvigoration. We become alive as days become more temperate and people enjoy the outdoors. 

This beautiful season is only complete with witnessing the cherry blossoms festival in Vancouver. And so we visit the charming district of Yaletown to celebrate the "Big Picnic" event. It's the best time to see the flowers in full bloom, a sight that never fails to inspire awe, and when many people gather as friends under the cherry trees. There are no strangers, but just friends and lovers.

The Big Picnic and the Cherry Blossoms Festival aim to bring people from Metro Vancouver together for fun and excitement. There will be programs, art exhibits, and workshops for everyone to participate in, learn from, and enjoy.

This year's event may have been more significant as people move freely without restrictions. The mask mandate is no longer mandatory; people see each other's faces. But beyond looks are beautiful smiles, laughter, and joy that brighten the day and lift the mood. 

David Lam Park is a magical experience when people enjoy the hundreds of Akebono cherry trees donated by the 25th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, Dr. David Lam, named in his honor.

Physical fitness activities like yoga are available. They're a great way of becoming one with nature while relaxing the body and clearing the mind. There are also winning haiku and haiku installations that connect poems to cherry trees.  

It's good to see families and children enjoy various programs and activities. It's also good to see more people outdoors and appreciate the wonderful nature in the city's heart.

As the clock springs forward, we show the world how we're progressing despite the situation, making joyful cherry blossom experiences and incredible memories. The Big Picnic is a unique event that brings people from different places in British Columbia to see the magical cherry blossoms and to experience "why there are no strangers under the cherry tree." We're all united; we believe we can be. The joy of the event is palpable, and we can't wait to share it with you.

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

A day trip in White Rock: City by the Sea

What makes British Columbia beautiful is its stunning views of landscapes and seascapes. In Metro Vancouver, there's a place to see the natural grandeur of a city by the sea.

It's the City of White Rock, about 45 km south of downtown Vancouver and just 10 10-minute drive from the Peace Arch, where the US-Canada border is located.

What sets this place apart is its captivating history as a fishing village, and the intriguing story behind its name. It's a literal white rock! Glaciers carried away a massive rock to the South of the metro during the last glacial age period. And let's not forget, it's home to Canada's longest pier, a unique wooden structure that has stood since 1914.

Walking down the steep hill to the main street, you will be rewarded with a magnificent view of Semiahmoo Bay. There, you can see beautiful houses on a hill overlooking the sea—such a scenic view of the horizon on a sunny weekend. 

As you approach the main street, you'll find an ideal promenade for fitness and sightseeing. It's a place where people walk, jog, dine at a table, sit on benches, and simply take a deep breath to rejuvenate the body, mind, and soul. The fresh sea breeze and the stunning views make it a truly relaxing experience. 

Just a few meters walk, and you'll be welcomed to enter the elevated wooden structure of the pier, a fantastic landmark about 470 meters long. It's where individuals, couples, and families stroll and enjoy the natural scenery. The majestic mountains, the flying seagulls, and the long stretch of beaches make it a relaxing place to unwind.

The pier bridge, a symbol of resilience, underwent restoration in 1977 and was rebuilt and re-opened in 2019 after a wind storm hit the place at the year-end of 2018. They restored the pier to weather the storm and withstand natural calamities this time, a testament to the enduring spirit of White Rock.

Visitors must get down the wooden lane structure to be on the shore at its low tide, walking towards the 'white rock' visible even far away. This rock, a significant landmark worth seeing, is a unique geological formation that adds to the charm of White Rock. 

On the main strip of the town center, you can see a long stretch of restaurants offering al fresco dining while enjoying the sunshine, the blue waters, and the cool sea breeze. The local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and international flavors, is a must-try. Sunlight is fantastic as it gives a good vibe and a pleasant experience.

And whenever the sun shines so brightly, we shouldn't miss the outdoors and have some fun. That's what the city of White Rock has to offer -- simply the sunniest place in the metro.

A trip to the White Rock pier and promenade is a great way to experience living in a city by the sea, even for a day. They have preserved history and culture where peace and serenity are enjoyed by many. 

White Rock is undoubtedly a wonderful place to visit and live. The local community is known for its friendly and laid-back nature, adding to the city's charm. It is a vivid memory worth reminiscing about and a fantastic destination worth revisiting. 

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

The Labyrinth in Fleetwood Gardens

The winter season has finally ended in Canada. Gone are the snows, frosts, and unbearable coldness for a newcomer like me. 

Finally, here comes the much-awaited season of all: spring. It's a time when flowers and tree leaves are blossoming everywhere, painting the world with vibrant colors. I can't wait to see the cherry blossoms in different places on the metro, as they give a naturally stunning view of a picture-perfect scene. 

As we welcome spring, it's the best time to visit a nearby park on a lovely sunny day. Enjoy the fun moment and relax, strolling and seeing people around. 

Fleetwood Gardens is the best place due to its proximity to our home. It's in a vast park where cherry blossoms are waiting to bloom. The pergola gives the feeling of a romantic walk for a couple, and the benches are perfect for soulful conversations.

The most impressive feature is the presence of a labyrinth. It's an ancient pattern found in many places and cultures worldwide. A maze has only a single path and no dead ends. As we walk inside, it winds throughout and mirrors our current state in life. We walk in peace with an open heart and a clear mind. 

The labyrinth in Fleetwood Gardens is a classical 7-circuit or path. It's now installed in many places, such as wellness centers, churches, and community parks, as an alternative for healing the body, mind, and soul. It symbolizes hope and rejuvenation, offering a path to inner peace and clarity. 

As we walk the path, we become more mindful of the sensation of walking. And as we go along, we develop a strong sense of concentration and awareness needed to gain insights. 

A labyrinth walk has three stages and beautiful healing benefits. The first stage is releasing or purgation. This is when we remove all unwanted thoughts and mental distractions, quiet the mind, and open our hearts. It's a cleansing process, allowing us to let go of our burdens and prepare ourselves for the journey ahead. 

The second stage is receiving or illumination. As we reach the center, we stay for a moment to sit and stand as we meditate, offer prayer, and allow ourselves to receive guidance from a higher power source. 

The final stage is returning or union. As we're about to exit, we follow the same path back out. We then experience a stronger sense of well-being and clarity of mind. This journey through the labyrinth leaves us feeling more empowered, ready to pursue our life purpose and heart's desire with confidence and motivation. 

It feels good to welcome spring with an open heart and a clear mind. Like the spring season, we're about to bloom like colorful, fragrant flowers. We are incredible beings with beautiful souls who live daily to find meaning and purpose. We live our best lives, give back, and be generous. 

©️ 2022 Del Cusay