Kelowna, British Columbia - Canada

Then & Now

2009-08-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

While we were showing you photos of the southern part of Okanagan our Province has been experiencing record breaking heat with the accompanying dryness. Consequently, as expected we are dealing with a number of aggressive forest fires. Although we ourselves do not appear to be in danger, at least not in the immediate future, our valley is plagued by smoke. The two submissions represent the before and current view taken from our deck.

We are having guests arriving this evening who we expect shall be with us until mid month. As we are keen on spending quality time with our company, we shall be signing off for a period with this writing.

Thank you for visiting our blog and we hope you are all enjoying your summer.
Frankie & Nick

Oliver 3

2009-08-04T20:22:00.000-07:00

Further up, we find that a foot bridge crosses this body of flowing water enabling hikers and bikers to explore the opposite side. Incidentially this paved walkway goes on and on for many miles.

Oliver 2

2009-08-03T21:29:00.000-07:00

Having once been covered with cacti and sage brush, you can see that Oliver has now been cultivated into lush productive land well known for its vineyards and orchards. These photos show each side of the paved walking trail which perfectly represent a visual of this lush community

Oliver 1

2009-08-02T21:07:00.000-07:00

The endless paved walking trail referred to in our previous posting ideal for bikers as well as walkers.

Oliver

2009-08-01T21:55:00.000-07:00

Boasting a population of approximately 5,000 residents, Oliver has several very comfortable R.V. parks. We chose this particular one due to it's close proximity to the centre of town as well as a wonderful paved walking trail which appears to be endless.

On The Road

2009-07-31T21:44:00.000-07:00

On the road again and travelling southbound along Vaseux Lake we will be passing though Oliver, BC located between OK Falls and Osoyoos. We will soon be visiting Oliver which is also approximately 25 minutes north of the US Boarder

OK Falls 3

2009-07-30T21:58:00.000-07:00

A scene taken from the previously referred to hiking trail looking in a southwesterly direction.

Treasurers

2009-07-29T20:21:00.000-07:00

As we step off of the boardwalk and begin our stroll on the path we glance to the left edge and we spot an expectant Mama happily sitting on her nest of treasurers

OK Falls 2

2009-07-28T21:58:00.000-07:00

Our last posting from the boardwalk faced south towards OK Falls. Facing north, this boardwalk connects to a walking trail that continues onward for 12 miles (19km). Many bikers and even some ardent hikers take advantage of this distance ending up in Penticton.

OK Falls 1

2009-07-27T21:49:00.000-07:00

Continuing from our previous post this photo was taken facing south from the boardwalk onto the shores of OK (Okanagan) Falls. This charming little community is well known for it's famous Tickleberrys; home of the largest ice cream seller in the valley. It is surrounded by two prestigious wineries and offers a diverse variety of outdoor recreation.

OK Falls

2009-07-25T21:16:00.000-07:00

Continuing southbound we arrive at OK Falls situated on the far end shore of Skaha Lake. This pleasant little community boasts a wonderful boardwalk extending over part of Skaha Lake leading hikers across the water to endless miles of trails. This boardwalk is also an extremely popular fishing spot for enthusiasts while many dive off of it's edge into the deep clear water below.

Kaleden

2009-07-24T22:40:00.000-07:00

Photo of vineyards located on the opposite side of Skaha lake taken from the picnic area in Kaleden.

Keleden Hotel

2009-07-23T20:40:00.000-07:00

Located 13km (8 miles) south of Penticton is the picturesque community of Kaleden. The original Kaleden Hotel is one of the main landmarks along Skaha Lake. This tiny historic community made up of vineyards and lakeview orchards offers visitors good bed and breakfast facilities coupled by excellent beaches and picnic areas.

The Canal

2009-07-22T21:32:00.000-07:00

Tubing down the canal is one of the many popular attractions of Penticton. You may bring your own float or just rent one at the starting point and go for a few kilometer float from Lake Okanagan on the north end to the Skaha Lake on the south. The Fun Bus is available to transport the participants back to the start.

Penticton Beach

2009-07-21T21:47:00.001-07:00

Penticton is situated between two lakes, namely the Lake Okanagan to the north which extends approximately 90 miles skirting the shores of Kelowna and coming to rest against the north shores of the City of Vernon. On the south Penticton borders Skaha Lake which extends for seven miles onto the shores of Okanagan Falls. The photograph represents a typical summer's day at the beach.

This photo taken in the early spring will give you an idea of the scope of this south beach.

SS Sicamous

2009-07-20T22:05:00.000-07:00

Our high temperatures coupled by lack of moisture have caused several local forest fires in the immediate area. Thus our absence is attributable to Fire Watch 2009. The winds have now dissipated and the situation is being stabilized. Optimistically there will not be any significant changes to the contrary.

In the meantime we will pick up where we left off in the Penticton area. This is another view of the SS Sicamous, as per our initial postings of July 15th.

Penticton 4

2009-07-17T21:36:00.000-07:00

Facing in a north easterly direction from the north shore of the city. Penticton is situated at the far end of the 90 mile long Okanagan Lake

2009-07-16T21:27:00.000-07:00

Water, beaches and boats, a common every day summer site in the Okanagan.

SS Sicamous

2009-07-15T20:27:00.000-07:00

The SS Sicamous portrays the history of lake transportation via paddle wheel boats transporting people along the communities of the Okanagan Valley. Launched in 1914 this 228 foot vessel also contains 40 staterooms for the affluent to occupy during their journey and is now a tourist attraction situated on the north shore of Penticton, BC.

Penticton

2009-07-14T19:40:00.000-07:00

The city of Penticton which is located approximately 30 miles south of Kelowna is also a well known vacation paradise.

Pitch& Putt

2009-07-13T21:04:00.000-07:00

A local Pitch and Putt Golf Course located on the edge of Okanagan Lake.

Strawberries

2009-07-12T21:24:00.000-07:00

There are several strawberry growers in the valley which attrack many locals as well as tourists. Often choices are offered between U-Pick or simply purchasing the picked product at a slightly higher cost per pound.

Marmot

2009-07-11T20:48:00.000-07:00

A local marmot, which is actually a large ground squirrel that loves to reside in mountainous areas such as ours..

Summerhill 1

2009-07-09T20:54:00.000-07:00

Summerhill's organic wines are aged in a self sufficient replica of Egypt's Great Pyramid which was erected using no ferrous metals and orienting it to true vs. magnetic north.

Summerhill Winery

2009-07-08T20:38:00.000-07:00

Summerhill Pyramid Winery which overlooks lake Okanagan to the west is a Certified Organic Vineyard which uses no herbicides, pesticides or chemical fertilizers in the soil.

Cherries

2009-07-07T20:09:00.000-07:00

Local cherries in their abundant prime this time of year.

Homeward Bound

2009-07-06T20:27:00.000-07:00

Almost there as we approach closer to Vancouver and the ship's docks located near the sails become visible. We will be on home land soon

Vancouver

2009-07-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

Although there is so much more to see and do in pristine Alaska we feel that we have shown you a small sample of that beautiful state. As we prepare to disembark we can not help but admire the majestic structures of Vancouver visible in the foreground.

Alaska

2009-07-04T15:56:00.000-07:00

Built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush this narrow gauge railroad climbs 3,000 feet in just 20 miles and features steep grades up to 3.9% with cliff hanging curves of 60 degrees through two tunnels, numerous bridges and trestles. . A world class historic civil engineering landmark where tourists experience the breathtaking panorama views of mountains, glaciers, waterfalls and historic sites from the comfort of vintage parlor cars.

Alaska

2009-07-03T21:36:00.000-07:00

Although at first glance it appears that this glacier contains vehicular tracks, it is not so. The dark markings are as a result of one glacier crushing against another.

Alaska

2009-07-02T21:33:00.000-07:00

Eagles and sea lions a common site in the state of Alaska.

Alaska

2009-07-01T20:27:00.000-07:00

Rainmobiles appear to be the logical choice in a city that accumulates up to 30 feet of rain per year. Should walking be your preferred alternative choice of mobility there are containers of free umbrellas readily available for pedestrians use. Who would think of that but unique Ketchican!

Alaska

2009-06-30T21:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's post was taken from a foot bridge which separates the bubbling brook from the retail shops in an area called Creek Street in Ketchican. This photo was taken from the brook or backside of this retail sector.

Alaska

2009-06-29T21:27:00.000-07:00

This bubbling brook was taken at the one of our port city visits, Ketchican. It was drizzling when we arrived and much to our surprise we learned that this city gets up to 30 feet of rain within a period of a year. We say much to our surprise as it was always sunny and warm during our previous three visits.

Alaska

2009-06-28T21:19:00.000-07:00

A common Alaska scene.

Islands

2009-06-27T20:46:00.000-07:00

At early evening photo taken from the ship's deck of two islands surrounded by water.

Glacier 2

2009-06-26T21:02:00.000-07:00

Whether its nature of climate change, glaciers do melt during the short warm summer months.
This is a close up of the melting that is taking place on one particular glacier. You will note the steady stream of water which is continually pouring into the ocean.

Glaciers

2009-06-25T20:47:00.000-07:00

One of Alaska's many glaciers. This particular one is located in Glacier National Park which is accessible only by boat.

Alaska

2009-06-24T21:14:00.000-07:00

We have just completed our fourth cruise to Alaska and for those of you who have not had an opportunity to visit this beautiful state, we will post some random photos over the next few days.
Hope you are all having a great summer.

Over @ Out

2009-06-08T21:33:00.000-07:00

The plume of smoke pertaining to yesterday's post has now been put to rest and is currently in a mop up stage.
We on the other hand are off to Alaska again. We shall catch up with you in just over a weeks time.
Take care of each other.

2009-06-07T21:13:00.000-07:00

Our temperatures cooled substantially over night. During the latter part of the afternoon what appeared to be an insignificant number of clouds filled the sky. We were momentarily graced with a few sprinkles of rain, some flashes of lightning and a bit of thunder, the latter being somewhat abnormal for our area.
We were in the kitchen at approximately 5:00 p.m. when we noticed a plume of smoke rise
near the mountain top across the lake. Upon checking with the fire authorities we were informed that it had just been reported. Within minutes a rain cloud moved in and soaked the area for a short time.The ministry of forestry has confirmed that the fire was ignited by lightning which is presently being attacked by air tankers and helicopters.

No Smoke

2009-06-06T21:11:00.000-07:00

What a difference a day makes. Same photo as taken and submitted on June 4th less the smoke which was moved off by a welcome breeze.

Dogs

2009-06-05T22:00:00.000-07:00

Just sitting and waiting. Saw this at the mall parking lot, don't normally like to see animals in the rear of vehicles, but these two looked so cute the way they were synchronized.

Smoke

2009-06-04T20:58:00.000-07:00

We have an aggressive forest fire located approximately 180 miles from Kelowna. It has been blazing for a couple of days and has expanded to 15,000 hectares at last report. The area is hot and dry in the vicinity of 100 degrees F. Its smoke arrived in the valley this morning. This photo taken from our deck shows it's intensity.

Barge

2009-06-03T19:51:00.000-07:00

This barge is transporting building materials used by contractors who are constructing boat docks along the shores of Okanagan Lake for homeowner's personal use.

Shade

2009-06-02T18:52:00.000-07:00

The day warrants a change of plan and we hit the shade of the walking trail instead of roaming around in the heat of the day.

Waking Trail

2009-06-01T21:35:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite walking trails located just minutes from home is an interesting stroll throughout our four climatic seasons.

Trampoline/Clown

2009-05-31T20:24:00.001-07:00

Continuing onward from yesterday's post the Farmer's market is not only equipped for the adult population but also geared towards the youngsters with everything from food, clowns with balloons and even an enclosed mobile trampoline for their enjoyment.

Market

2009-05-30T20:17:00.000-07:00

Farmer's markets and fruit stands are abundant during the summer months. This market which operates Wednesday and Saturday mornings in Kelowna draws vendors from miles around bringing a huge variety of wares from fresh meat, honey, sculptures, crafts, food, fruit and vegetables products all made or grown within the local area.

Water Fountain

2009-05-29T20:21:00.000-07:00

By mid afternoon today the temperatures soared to 35.5C or 95F thus qualifying this water fountain as the attraction of the day.

Lamborghini

2009-05-28T20:26:00.000-07:00

This Lamborghini convertible drew its fair share of attention while parked in the local Mall.

Limousine

2009-05-27T20:16:00.000-07:00

May and June are huge months for graduations where students travel to and form various functions in hired limousines. A somewhat expensive venture but one that affords peace of mind for parents and relatives.

Boating

2009-05-26T19:55:00.000-07:00

Summer brings out the boats onto the lake

Picnics

2009-05-25T19:44:00.000-07:00

Warm sunny days - families and picnics go together like milk and honey!

Beach

2009-05-24T20:14:00.000-07:00

Its a sunny warm Sunday afternoon and we travelled approximatley 10 minutes from home for a great day at the beach.

Rainbow

2009-05-23T19:31:00.001-07:00

Looking out the window upon our arrival at home, we couldn't help but notice this rainbow. Might that be a good omen?

Cherries

2009-05-22T20:13:00.000-07:00

One last photo before we land on the home front. Thought this cherry display at the Market was an ingenious work of art.

Bridge

2009-05-21T20:30:00.001-07:00

We had no real reason to photograph this bridge except that we liked it, lol.

Loading Dock

2009-05-20T20:26:00.000-07:00

The West coast is well known for its massive seaport traffic. A container ship is approaching one of the loading docks as the photo is taken.

Highway

2009-05-19T20:50:00.000-07:00

Such a pretty stretch of highway leading to the west coast.

Weekend

2009-05-18T21:28:00.001-07:00

We started on our trip to the West Coast encountering various weather patterns from light fog and misty rain through the mountain passes to bright sunshine and very warm temperatures upon our arrival and for the duration of the weekend.

HOSPITAL

2009-05-13T20:24:00.000-07:00

We will be away from the computers for a few days, have a nice weekend.

A view of the Kelowna General Hospital taken from the west side of the lake.

Pear Trees

2009-05-12T19:59:00.001-07:00

Wildflowers

2009-05-11T21:33:00.000-07:00

Our unusually coolish weather this spring brought forth a plethora of wildflowers on the mountain slopes. Under normal conditions our winter is short, the weather dry and the warmth discourages such an abundant display.

Marina

2009-05-10T21:45:00.000-07:00

Photo taken from the south side of the Wm. Bennett bridge overlooking a marina with the residential area of Kelowna in the foreground.

Playground

2009-05-09T22:25:00.000-07:00

The sunshine brought out families and picnics galore while the children had an opportunity to enjoy some time in the playground.

Hummingbirds

2009-05-07T21:27:00.000-07:00

The hummingbird feeder is being well used these days. Most have some unique markings and amazingly after travelling thousands of miles, the same birds keep coming back to the same place year after year.

Law Courts

2009-05-06T20:04:00.000-07:00

A pictorial view of the Kelowna Law Courts building shielded behind a display of ornamental tree blossoms.

Walking Trails

2009-05-05T20:21:00.000-07:00

Walking trails are in abundance in and around the downtown Kelowna area. This particular one is located within blocks from our local Mall which has in excess of 171 stores.

Footbridge

2009-05-04T19:47:00.000-07:00

There is a handy footbridge which connects to a path leading through an underground tunnel beneath the Wm. Bennett Bridge. This path continues onward for about an hours walk along the lakeshore in the downtown area of Kelowna.

Wine Festival

2009-05-03T22:00:00.000-07:00

The 10 day Okanagan Wine Festival is well under way offering those who love wine and food a fabulous experience in which they may choose to participate in any of the 100 plus events held throughout the Okanagan Wine Country.

Garage Sale

2009-05-02T16:29:00.000-07:00

Garage sales are a sure tell tail sign that spring is here. This one was held at one of the local gated communities where residents gather their over accumulated purchases and display them on their driveways at prices that are but a pittance of the original cost.

Nursery

2009-05-01T19:36:00.000-07:00

Springtime planting of small nursery trees has now taken place. The irrigation systems is on full force and with the warm sun shining this parcel of land will soon be sprouting with life.

Sunshine

2009-04-30T19:58:00.000-07:00

It is SO good to see sunshine and green grass! Looks like we weren't the only ones that were enjoying it today.

Saskatoon Blossoms

2009-04-29T20:03:00.000-07:00

We took this photo a few houses down the block from our own home. These are saskatoon blossoms that are randomly found on the mountain slopes. Saskatoons are a form of eatable wild berry which actually make a very tasty pie. They can also be frozen or preserved as a winter fruit.

More Blossoms

2009-04-28T21:16:00.001-07:00

After a long winter and a tedius spring, its refreshing to see the downtown boulevards in blossom again.

Spring flowering trees

2009-04-27T21:37:00.000-07:00

Various varieties of flowering trees have finally come to life and are now gracing the valley and streets of Kelowna.

Forsythia

2009-04-26T19:56:00.000-07:00

The local forsythia blossoms, although later than usual, have started to flourish throughout the valley.

Three Wheeler

2009-04-25T21:40:00.000-07:00

As usual a local event attracts many out of town visitors and the boat show was no exception. This three wheel motorcycle parked at the edge of the display area bears a license plate from a neighboring province.

Boat Show

2009-04-24T12:20:00.000-07:00

Continuing with last weekends' boat show, this is one of many boats and various types of watercraft featured throughout the display in addition to the lake demonstrations throughout the two day period.

Hydroplane

2009-04-23T19:26:00.001-07:00

On August 8 -9th, 2009 Kelowna will again host Hydrofest, the premier outdoor event of the summer which features the largest professional boat racing series in Canada. We shall be playing host to some of the fastest boats in the world along with the best drivers and some of the biggest names.

Mobile Real Estate

2009-04-22T20:51:00.000-07:00

Shopping for real estate? Well why not shop in style with the Royal LePage Real Estate Bus Tours. Complete with wheel chair accessibility, this company is offering a mobile comfortable tour of available local properties for sale.

Fertilizer Time

2009-04-21T21:18:00.000-07:00

Maintaining a well groomed productive vineyard requires continual maintenance and attention. Quail Gate Estate Winery who own the vineyard directly in front of our home are presently fertilizing the soil in anticipation of a fruitful harvest in the autumn.

Street Sweeper

2009-04-20T20:22:00.000-07:00

Today the street sweeping machine was brought into our area to clean up all the sand and winter debris that had accumulated on the streets over winter.

Doggie Condo

2009-04-19T19:03:00.000-07:00

Doggie Condominiums were one of the featured displays at the Kelowna Home Show held over the weekend.

Birds

2009-04-18T20:53:00.000-07:00

We filled the feeder with nectar and popped it onto the deck preparatory for the hummingbirds homecoming. We were dismayed to find uninvited finches helping themselves in the meantime.

Horse

2009-04-17T22:07:00.000-07:00

This chap decided to nose over the fence hoping that passers by will serve up a snack

Kelowna

2009-04-16T20:26:00.000-07:00

This graphic was taken from the banks of West Kelowna facing east to Kelowna central. The white building in the foreground is the local hospital.

Lake Okanagan

2009-04-15T20:50:00.000-07:00

A view of Lake Okanagan taken from West Kelowna facing in a southwesterly direction.

Contrast

2009-04-14T20:43:00.000-07:00

This time of year the greening of the lawn creates a very visible contrast again the snow topped mountains in the foregound.

Flowers Galore

2009-04-09T21:44:00.000-07:00

Although considerably later than other years it's finally that refreshing time again when the Garden Centers are flourishing with pansies in their full glory.

Homes with view

2009-04-08T19:45:00.000-07:00

Our mountainous terrain lends itself to a great percentage of homes being built with a view, some even panoramic. These particular ones are overlooking the city of Kelowna beneath. You will note the top of the light standard at ground level.

Multi functional dwellings

2009-04-07T21:59:00.000-07:00

This is a view of one of the many residential/commercial dwellings. This particular one houses various offices inclusive of doctors offices and a pharmacy while the upper floors contain private residences.

Roto Rake

2009-04-06T19:43:00.000-07:00

From snowy Thursday to sunny Monday! We took advantage of the day by roto raking the front lawn. This procedure pulls out some of the brown grass that didn't winter well. Next comes the fertilizer and water which will bring it back before we know it.

No Snow

2009-04-05T22:06:00.000-07:00

Finally a scene without snow!

Cedars

2009-04-04T22:00:00.000-07:00

The snow left as fast as it came and the sun followed suit. Right along with everyone bounced into the spring mode, garden centers are open, cedars are ready to be planted. We are on a roll.

More Snow

2009-04-02T22:01:00.000-07:00

We have flowers that are blooming and grass that is greening up. What a surprise to look out the front and see snow this morning!! Thank goodness that it started to rain later in the morning which became high and dry by mid afternoon. We will see what other surprises might be in store.

The Rock

2009-03-31T20:05:00.000-07:00

The lone rock with it's various characteristic configurations carved by nature over time.

Pier & Dock Extension

2009-03-30T18:23:00.000-07:00

The lakeside Cove luxury condo resort is in the process of extending it's dock and pier facilities preparatory for summer traffic.

Mercedes

2009-03-29T15:08:00.000-07:00

Its not every day that we see a vehicle in an approximate age bracket of between 1974 and 1980 in such prime condition. This 450 SL Classic Mercedes hardtop convertible is obviously the recipient of the pride of ownership.