Sunday Awesomeness

We decided to go on an adventure yesterday to explore our new surroundings.  We drove south on a windy road surrounded by big trees and bushes, past road side stands with fresh eggs, flowers and meat, into the little village of Metchosin, BC.  We found a lovely little farmer's market put on by the locals complete with preserves, clothing, crocheted items, soap, fresh bread, produce, chickens (yes, chickens - $10 each!) and more.  It was very homespun and welcoming.  I loved it and can't believe it's only 10 minutes away from my house!

We picked up some snacks - sweet cherry tomatoes, raspberries, carrots and lemon glazed buns.  Yum.

I picked up this little tin of sea salt.  This guy and his wife collect ocean water in their boat, boil it down and harvest the salt.  I was fascinated at the story of how the salt comes to be.  I thought this particular flavor would rock over popcorn.

From the market we drove south and west, winding every which way, mesmerized by the beauty of the rainforest and the ocean.  Houses hidden among trees and facing the ocean.  Artist places.  More fresh flowers and eggs.  All 3 kids fell asleep and it was a most peaceful drive.  We ended up at the entrance of China Beach, which is a beautiful 15-20 minute hike down to the beach itself.

 Before we saw the water, we heard it.  Loud crashing waves.  And all of a sudden the rainforest opened up to this.

Beautiful, silky soft sand.  We couldn't help but take off our socks and shoes.

                                   

The kids played with shells, seaweed and rocks, and explored.  G and I sat and took it all in.  The afternoon was a gift.

On the way home we found this little fish n'chips truck on the side of the road.  We didn't have much cash but scrounged up what we had and the cook said, "that's fine!  I'll make you a meal for 5 people for that amount!"

MmmmmmmMmmMmmmMmmmmm....

We ate on a big log looking at this.

It was a magical day from start to finish.