Showing posts with label British Columbia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label British Columbia. Show all posts

Sunday, June 5, 2022

Seafood Celebration in Steveston


It's getting warmer in Canada in the second half of the Spring season, and this is an ideal time to get out and enjoy the sunshine on the waterfront and patio.

Many people are eagerly anticipating the return of outdoor fun in the Steveston, British Columbia, fisherman's wharf. The fishing village is coming back to life after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, and the air is filled with excitement for the much-awaited Spot prawn and seafood celebration from May 6 to June 5. 

For seafood lovers, this is a unique opportunity to witness and purchase the freshest catch of spot prawns and other seafood, all sold directly from the fishing vessel in a floating seafood market. It's an experience that's sure to pique your interest.

This is a chance for seafood lovers to see and buy fresh catch spot prawns and other seafood sold directly from the fishing vessel in a floating seafood market.

Located just a stone's throw away from Garry Point Park, the fisherman's wharf offers a delightful stroll along the promenade up to the restaurant patio, providing a perfect setting to relax and bask in the rejuvenating sea breeze. 

The take-home fresh spot prawn is the star of the show, and for good reason. It's one of the best varieties, with a crispier, firmer texture and a superior taste. Its popularity is evident as people eagerly line up to purchase a pound or more, making it a must-try for seafood enthusiasts.

The good thing about the fishing industry in Canada is that the Government actively regulates product quality, public health, and safety. The fishermen can only sell a specific variety of seafood they're licensed to harvest. They need to hold and display a license on their stall and display a whiteboard that lists the species they're selling, the area of harvest, and the name of the vessel used for harvesting. That information safeguards the public that they only sell the highest quality products at the fish sales float.

A visit to Steveston Harbour celebrates reviving the fishing industry and supporting local fishermen in British Columbia. This place has plenty of marine life, vendors selling the highest quality products, and abides by the fishing industry's laws and regulations. 


©️ 2022 Del Cusay

Sunday, May 22, 2022

The Birchwood Dairy Farm in Abbotsford


The weekend has never been this fun in a valley and a farm. That's how we spend time unwinding in the beautiful and relaxing ambiance of the Birchwood Dairy Farm. 
 
In Abbotsford, British Columbia, there are many farm destinations to choose from since the city is located in the fertile Fraser Valley, where Agritourism is promoted and becoming a lifestyle.


The Krahn family owns the farm. They've been in the dairy farm business for several decades in the Fraser Valley. The family manages the 22 acres of the farm, caring for hundreds of cows and producing dairy milk and other dairy products.

What makes this dairy farm a favorite destination is its gourmet ice cream, which is rich and creamy from the fresh milk produced by its happy and healthy cows. There are about 50 flavors to choose from, including maple walnut, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, and cookies and cream, which we've bought in a cone and taken home in a liter bucket. That's a relief during sunny and warmer days just before the summer begins.


The dairy farm is also a favorite stop among partners and families who want to explore more and learn about how dairy milk and products are produced on the farm. On an educational tour, it's also a popular stop among cyclists, motorcyclists, and students. This dairy farm is family-friendly and just for anyone who's into 
uncrowded, fresh air, and a great view of a natural environment.

I've learned that Canadian livestock is free from growth hormones, and antibiotics and other medications are strictly regulated. Birchwood Dairy Farm takes good care of its cows, is always healthy, and produces the tastiest and creamiest milk. That makes their gourmet ice cream one of the best premium-quality I've ever tasted.


Exposure to the dairy farm for a brief period gives a perspective on how the cows are ethically raised, dairy products are produced, and the products are sold and patronized by people who know the real taste of a quality dairy product. 


At Birchwood Dairy Farm, we see happy families, playful young kids, and everyone who radiates the calm and positive energy of the dairy farm. It's on my farm destination lists, and I'll always be happy to return and create beautiful memories to cherish and reminisce.


©️ 2022 Del Cusay

Sunday, May 1, 2022

The Tulip Festival in Chilliwack


It's Springtime in Canada, and other flowers take their turns to bloom just when the cherry blossoms start to fall off.

It's time to see the 30 colorful varieties of tulips and other flowers like daffodils and Hyacinths for this year's re-opening of British Columbia's largest flower festival.

The Tulip Festival in Chilliwack, the largest flower festival in British Columbia and Western Canada, is a unique spectacle. This is the time of the year when millions of bulbs of Tulips are blooming on a 20-acre flower farm, creating a breathtaking sight that is not to be missed. 

This year marks the 16th edition of the Tulip Festival in Chilliwack. Tens of thousands of people from the lower mainland and nearby cities flock to witness the breathtaking blossoming of tulips, reminiscent of the famous tulip farms in the Netherlands.

The Tulip Festival in Chilliwack boasts a Dutch-inspired tulip farm, complete with a windmill, a chapel, a swing, and benches for perfect photo opportunities. It's an ideal setting for families and couples to enjoy a romantic stroll against a stunning mountain backdrop.

In these times of transition, a visit to a Tulip farm can be a truly uplifting experience. It's a chance to appreciate the natural wonders, see each other's faces and smiles without barriers, and be reminded of the beauty and joy that life has to offer.

Life is more beautiful when people bloom like a flower, radiating purity, serenity, and positivity. When life seems blue, these flowers remind us that we can stand tall, create abundance, and experience pure joy and peace in our hearts. 

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

Sunday, April 17, 2022

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

Sunday, April 10, 2022

Taking a Leap from Hope to Faith


Despite our fears and doubts, the transformative power of belief can change our lives. When we transition from mere thoughts to complete surrender, we open ourselves to the possibility of transformation. 

Our hopes are idle wishes and potential pathways to achieving our heart's desires. When we believe in the power of our higher hopes, we pave the way for tremendous success and fulfillment.

When we hope for something, we say, "It can happen." However, we're dealing with the possibility of keeping our fingers crossed. It may or may not happen. When we don't get our hopes, we slow down and may easily give up. 

Transitioning from hope to faith is more than just a change in mindset. It's a shift from uncertainty to unwavering belief. When we have faith, we remove the doubts that hinder us from achieving our goals. With confidence, even the most daunting tasks become possible. This is the power of faith-it can work miracles in our lives, making the seemingly impossible possible.

When things go wrong, or we're behind in the race of life, we may pause for a moment, get energized, and take a giant leap from hope to faith. Then, the universe conspires to make things happen. It shifts our mindset from probability to greater possibility, and our dreams and desires take a quantum leap of faith to eternity. 

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

Related Post:

👉 Quantum Leap of Faith in the Summit


Monday, April 4, 2022

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

Monday, March 28, 2022

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


Monday, March 21, 2022

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

Monday, March 14, 2022

Fitness Goals in Fleetwood


Fitness continues from Manila to Surrey, British Columbia. Back home in the Philippines, I used to do a lot of fitness exercises on the streets of BGC on a cool morning and even on warm summer days.

How could I step out for an outdoor walk on a rainy week in British Columbia? Yes, it rains a lot in BC, but the weather seems favorable. I expect a sunny day perfect for an afternoon stroll in the neighborhood.

Fitness goals could be challenging when stuck at home on gloomy and rainy winter days, but I must enjoy the outdoors whenever I wake up with sunlight. 

It's cold outside even when it's sunny, with a daytime high of 10 degrees. However, winter is about to end, and the best spring is coming on March 20th.

Walking on the residential streets of Fleetwood on a cold afternoon is an excellent activity as I aim to become more physically fit. I don't sweat, but it makes me feel warm in less than an hour. That's already about half of my 6,000 daily steps target. It feels good to get moving and see the beautiful neighborhood around me.

We travel to places occasionally and try different global cuisines that suit our palates. Metro Vancouver has diverse food choices, and we couldn't resist the best Asian cuisine. However, this could challenge my fitness goals as I increase my caloric intake, resulting in weight gain.

That's why I need to burn calories and unwanted fats. I need to walk, run, climb, and jump up high. I'm glad to start my fitness journey here in Fleetwood by simply taking a stroll. Having a long walk in a day makes me feel energized and revitalized.

In the coming days and weeks, I'll be able to discover more places in Fleetwood where I can fully achieve my fitness goals. The quietness of the site and the simplicity of living is ideal for a healthy mind and body. This is where I have always wanted to be. And here I am, about to live my most extraordinary life.

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

Sunday, March 6, 2022

Promenade Walk at Garry Point Park

Vancouver, Canada, is on the top list of the world's most livable cities. Scenic mountain ranges, including the iconic Grouse Mountain, and beautiful bodies of water, such as the Burrard Inlet and the Pacific Ocean, surround it. The city is a perfect blend of urban and natural beauty, making it a paradise for nature lovers and city dwellers alike. 

Upon my arrival in Vancouver in late February 2022, I was immediately struck by the beauty of British Columbia. Despite the initial cold and gloom, I eagerly awaited the sunny days that would be perfect for exploring and taking leisurely walks in the neighborhood.

A few days after I arrived, I was glad to see the blue skies as we visited a dear friend in Richmond.

That was a lovely sunny day in Steveston, a village Southwest of Richmond, British Columbia. The sea, the sand, the sun, and the cool winter air matched the scenic view of the surrounding sandy trail, making for a romantic stroll.

Looking at the horizon along the seaside, I see a spectacular view of Vancouver Island, Victoria's capital city. It's a beautiful island to visit and explore, but I must enjoy the moment at Garry Point Park this time. The ambiance and serenity are genuinely captivating and soothing, perfect for a promenade walk to remember.

Living in Metro Vancouver, surrounded by its many parks and natural beauty, is a true blessing. The healing power of these scenic landscapes for both body and soul is something I'm deeply grateful for. It's comforting to know that whenever I need to unwind and rejuvenate, there's always a place I can go.

Garry Point Park is a place for recreation. It has an open-air green space and trails for strolling and fitness activities. Young and older adults walk along the promenade with their partners and loved ones. Others love to take their dogs while enjoying the cool sea breeze on a sunny day.

The coastline was once a bustling fishing village, a site for canneries, and boatbuilding warehouses. The rich history of this place is evident in the Steveston Memorial Needle, a prominent structure in the Park. This needle serves as a marker for all those who were injured or died in the fishing industry, a poignant reminder of the village's past. 

Sitting on the big rock while watching the sailboats and commercial boats pass by is a beautiful scene. It reminds people about its historical past as a thriving fishing village. 

The winter season in Canada is about to end, but the warm welcome feels like home. That's one thing I need to get warmth. Living in a tropical country for so long makes me slightly adjust to the cold weather in Canada. However, I must remember that the season changes and only stays for a while. Soon, the winter is over, and the spring season awaits.

Like the hundreds of cherry blossom trees in Garry Point Park, it's beginning to blossom once again. When the Spristartsson begins, I'll witness the Sakura trees and cherry blossoms bloom. And it blooms in many parks in the metro. It just blooms when it is ready. It blooms at the right season. And it blooms at the right time.

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

Sunday, February 27, 2022

A Thousand Miles of Dreams


Chasing for a dream above the sky is truly a magical moment. We soar high to achieve our goals and plan our next life chapter, even in the most uncertain times.

Life is truly meaningful when we are prepared to take life's best shot. The processes we've been through and the sacrifices we've made have not been in vain. They have made us wiser and braver, and it's important to remember and appreciate these lessons as we move forward.

As I embark on my next journey, I remember the good things and those memories that have contributed to where I'm heading. 

Life has its fair share of bittersweet happenings, but we learned to be driven by our life purpose. We do not stop, but we continue the desires of our hearts. We become unstoppable. We become limitless.

In our aspiration for a better life, we have to cross beyond borders and see what lies ahead. Because only when we face our fears and doubts can we become fierce. We become fearless. 

As I embark on a new life chapter, I am deeply appreciative of the love and support of my dear ones. Their presence in my life is a constant source of inspiration, helping me to achieve my deepest desires and navigate life's challenges. 

Looking ahead, I'll tread the path with caution and wisdom. I'll navigate the crossroads with certainty and capability, fueled by the unwavering belief in the mighty spirit within me. With a thousand miles of dreams, I'll be guided by the Almighty, confident in my own strength.

©️ 2022 Del Cusay