Garden Bulbs on Sale.

This just came across in my emails this morning, and I couldn't help myself from sharing it with you.  400 bulbs for the garden on sale for $57.99 with shipping & handling included.  Apparently they are deer resistant (although you can never be sure).  Here's the link, with planting instructions :
http://www.costco.ca/Spring-blooming-Bulbs-Assortment.product.10352482.html

Of course, I'd still recommend hitting our local Gabriola nurseries with their fantastic knowledge, but if you're looking for a little supplement these might help.

September: back to school or the beach ?

Well it's officially back to school and most people are back into their routines and schedules.  We were taking photos of 392 Decourcy today, and the clear water and empty beaches just looked too beautiful not to share with you.  If you have the time, it's worth making the trip to Gabriola and stretching out your summer, you may just end up with a beach to yourself.  If you'd like to make it into a picnic, I would suggest getting a takeout lunch from either Mad Rona's coffee bar or the Old Crow in the Folklife Village. 
Submitted by: Tina Lynch

FORAGE: Gathering Artistic Ideas on Gabriola

Gabriola is a great place to delight in the artistic endeavours of the local residents. We were royally treated this past week to an influx of talented artists from near and far for a three day event “Forage” at Feedlot Studios. This community of about 50-60 artists was inclusive, open, sharing and supportive and I really had the sense that the participants of Forage wanted to create success for each other. It was a chance to look at the business side of art, something that often seems overlooked and taboo to discuss. Mariko & Bryan McCrae of Feedlot studios organized this enriching event and brought in the talents and generosity of The Surf and MadRona’s who hosted the evening presentations.

Gabriola - on the water

We've found something to entice the kids to go fishing with us, tubing !  the last few nights we've managed to have a few hours to go fishing around Thrasher and the fishing has been excellent.  It's the perfect combination for everyone in the family and we've been lucky enough to bring home dinner from the sea both nights.

Ever thought of MOVING a house ?

Ever thought of being offered a house for free ?  Achitrave, a local architect company on Gabriola is doing just that.   If you have a property but were waiting to build, this might be your chance to get started.  If you haven't purchased a piece of property on Gabriola yet, but find this opportunity too amazing to turn down, then come talk to Randi, Jennifer or myself and we'll find you the perfect property to set the house on.
Here's the details from Architrave, please contact them at the email below for further information.

1,000 square foot Log House in excellent condition to be claimed free.

Needs to be moved off Gabriola property by the end of September 2012.

Removal is at takers expense.

Nickel Brothers has assessed viability of move and provided estimated cost.

Architrave has assessed costs for new foundation and services hook up and would be happy to work with purchaser to facilitate all aspects of the move.

Brochure available at Architrave office.

House viewing Wednesday, August 22, 11am. Contact margot@architrave.ca for directions.

Submitted by: Tina Lynch

Kayaking around Silva Bay

We like to do a group activity for our family celebrations, so last week we celebrated my moms birthday (no, I won't say which one, i do like to work with her) by taking her on a kayak adventure.  We had Hilary Mason from Silva Bay Kayak Adventures take us on a 4 hour guided paddle.  I must say that at the kids request, the paddling portion consisted of about 40 minutes in total and the beach, swimming and snack time took up the remainder.  We ventured from the Silva Bay Inn, around Vance Island and stopped on Carlos Island for a few hours before returning home. 
It was a beautiful day and we all had a great time, they offer week long camps, sunset paddles and overnight stays.  If you're interested in a kayaking adventure off the shores of Gabriola Island, Hilary and Ryan are sure to come up with a safe and relaxed adventure tailored to you. 

Ready, set, go SAIL !

There are lots of great activities and camps for kids of all ages to attend on Gabriola.  This week, my kids are attending the "sailing camp".  The instructor Tom Bradbrooke is great with children and is teaching them about points of sail, knots, safety and how to tack and gybe.  My 8yr old daughter and a new friend have been busy sailing across Silva Bay on their own.  I'm really impressed with what they've been taught and the weeks not even over yet!
If you live on the Island or if your planning a trip, you may want to look at some of the camps that the Gabriola Recreation Society offers.  (Submitted by Tina Lynch)