A book for these times of conspiracy theories and extremest militia cults. Jess Walter gives us a book of family and redemption. Here is my Book Review So Far Gone by Jess Walter.
Jess Walter
This is the third book I have read by Walter who is based in my home state of Washington. The thing I like about Walter is how varied the three books have been; Beautiful Ruines is about Hollywood in Italy post war; The Cold Millions is about class uprising in working class Spokane early 20th century. And now, So Far Gone, based in modern times (2016 when Trump is elected) of dealing with modern politics and problems.
Rhys Kinnick
Walter’s introduces us to a well thought out character, retired journalist Kinnick. Seven years earlier Kinnick had left the mainstream to live off the grid. Kinnick’s decision came after his daughter’s conspiracy theory husband goes too far with politics talk on Thanksgiving, and Kinnick punches him.
Kinnick moves to a family cabin from his childhood where he lives as a recluse, not seeing his daughter or two grand kids. During this time politics in the United States is turbulent with Trump, changing media and journalism standards, and far right groups like the Church of the Blessed Fire, the militia Christian church Kinnick’s son-in-law is in.
Disappearance
When a woman shows up on his remote cabin porch with two kids, Rhys doesn’t even recognize his two grand kids. This is when he learns his daughter has vanished, and the kids are now in his care. But something is afoul, and Rhys must figure it out. He will need to enlist the help of people from his past, not all of who he has left on good terms.
Book Review So Far Gone by Jess Walter
So Far Gone is a book of redemption, for a crotchety old man, who drinks too much and has an anger problem. But he loves his daughter and his grand kids, and he will learn they are worth fighting for. Walter gives us multiple fine characters in this novel (and introduces their view in separate chapters) and a plot that has some humor as well as fear. Though fiction, it feels very believable in a crazy world we are currently living in.
Not my favorite of the three Walter novels I have read, but a solid and engaging story that is compelling and beautifully written.
This is part two of our BC Canada Road Trip. I recently shared Road Trip Vancouver Island British Columbia. Boy did we enjoy seeing some of beautiful Vancouver Island. After our five days on the island we headed across on the ferry from Comox to continue our trip along the beautiful Sunshine Coast. Here is my story Road Trip Sunshine Coast British Columbia Canada.
On board the ferry to Powell River from Comox
Part Two
Road Trip Sunshine Coast British Columbia
The ferry from Comox requires a reservation, which we made well in advance at a cost of $73 CAD / $53 USD. It was a gorgeous day and the ferry ride was very scenic (we saw whales breaching in the distance). On arrival in Powell River we made a brief stop to pick up groceries before heading north on Hwy 101 about 30 minutes to the tiny town of Lund.
Welcome to Lund
Lund British Columbia
In case you haven’t made the connection, my last name is Lund. My husband’s family is Scandinavian and there is town in Sweden called Lund. The tiny village of Lund British Columbia is named after the city in Sweden. Lund, by the way, means grove.
Where is Lund?
For the past forty years Arne and I have talked about visiting Lund British Columbia. Yes I said forty. Good grief…once again why don’t we visit beautiful British Columbia more often? So when we were planning our summer 2025 I insisted we finally visit Lund.
History of Lund BC
Lund, British Columbia, is a historic village with a rich past, initially established by Swedish immigrants, the Thulin brothers, in 1889. Before European settlement, the area served as a winter campground for the Coast Salish people. The Thulins developed Lund into a thriving port, building a store, post office, hotel, and wharf.
Small harbor at Lund
Hike the Lund Loop
Today, Lund is a picturesque seaside village known for its harbor and access to Desolation Sound. It’s often referred to as the “End of the Road” as it’s the northern terminus of Highway 101. This highway is part of one of the longest highway networks in the world, running along the coast from Canada to Chile.
Desolation Sound
In the summer of 1792, two expeditions led by Captains George Vancouver, and Dionisio Alcalá Galiano and Cayetano Valdés y Flores arrived and cooperated in mapping the sound. Vancouver named it Desolation Sound, cryptically claiming that “there was not a single prospect that was pleasing to the eye” (credit Desolation Sound Resort).
Many watercraft at Lund
Today Lund is the hop off point for wonderful water adventures in Desolation Sound. People come from all over the world to kayak, fish, sail, and hike the region. Lund has a population of 1250, and sits on the traditional and unceded territory of the Tla’amin, Klahoose, and Homalco First Nations. The native name of Lund is Klah ah men. This name, given by the Coast Salish people thousands of years ago, reflects the historical significance of the Lund Harbor as a safe and sheltered place where people could interact, hunt, gather food, and launch canoes along the Salish Sea. It was a vibrant cultural hub important for practical everyday life as well as for storytelling and sharing traditions.
Two Short Days in Lund
We did not have much time in Lund, but we did do a self guided tour of the beautiful harbor and had a late lunch of poutine and beer at the waterfront restaurant The Boardwalk, before checking in to our Airbnb.
The Boardwalk is a popular restaurant on the water in Lund. Definitely visit.
When in Canada – Poutine
We loved our cute and comfortable and sparkling clean Airbnb and decided it was a good evening to relax and have dinner at home.
Great little Airbnb with kitchen just outside of the town of Lund
Next morning we were up early for a full day of hiking on the Sunshine Coast Trial.
We met a lot of through hikers enjoying a multi-day trek. But for us our seven mile round trip (we headed north from Malaspina Road) gave us some beautiful views of the sound as well as forests and birds. I highly recommend finding some time to hike a portion of the Sunshine Coast Trail.
View of Okeover Inlet
The Laughing Oyster
After a shower and relax back at our cute little Airbnb we headed out to Lund’s highest rated restaurant The Laughing Oyster. Located outside of the tiny Lund marina area, and technically in Powell River, The Laughing Oyster not only has great food but it has a spectacular view of Desolation Sound. I’m glad we were able to get a reservation, because the food plus the view were a perfect ending to our brief, beautiful and long awaited visit to Lund British Columbia.
Cheers to Lund
Delicious Sablefish
Don’t miss The Laughing Oyster when in Lund
Southbound
For the first time in more than a week we turned our trusty Subaru towards the south for the drive to Halfmoon Bay. Another ferry ride was included from Saltery Bay (about an hours drive) to Earls Bay. There are no reservations on this run. After we disembarked and at the recommendation of my blogger friend from Retired and Traveling we made a stop to hike to Skookumchuck (skuh·kuhm·chuhk) Narrows.
Another ferry ride
Skookumchuck Narrows
Wow. Don’t miss this place. We would have if our friend Linda hadn’t suggested it. It’s an easy 2 mile hike from the parking area down to the narrows. At the parking you will also find restrooms, food and other services. Here is what the BC Parks Webpage has to say about this fabulous natural phenomenon;
Skookumchuck Narrows
” Skookumchuck Narrows Park provides trails and viewing areas for visitors who wish to experience the awesome power of incredibly turbulent tidal rapids. On a three metre tide, 200 billion gallons of water flow through the narrows connecting Sechelt and Jervis Inlet.
So glad we came here
The rushing water was astonishing
The difference in water levels between one side of the rapids and the other sometimes exceeds two metres in height. Current speeds can exceed 30 km per hour. The rapids are famous for their spectacular whirlpools and whitewater.” Learn more here.
Enjoy a cinnamon roll at the Skookumchuck Bakery after your hike.
A little midday treat
Halfmoon Bay
We arrived at our cute accommodations, the Loghouse at Halfmoon Bay, in the afternoon. This is a wonderful spot in a quiet little cove. Comfortable ground floor room with a small outdoor space, the hosts provide you make-your-own breakfast goodies including eggs, cereal, yogurt, coffee and more. I would definitely stay here again.
Loghouse at Halfmoon Bay
By this time on our road trip we were feeling a bit tired, but we took a walk to see the small beach, ogle at the beautiful homes and enjoy the pier, before jumping in the shower and getting ready for dinner.
The small beach near our lodge
Gorgeous pier and homes
The travel blogger friend I mentioned above lives in the town of Sechelt, about 15 minutes drive south on the Sunshine Coast. We enjoyed a glass of wine at their beautiful condo, before heading into Sechelt for dinner at a waterside restaurant.
Sechelt
Sechelt (see·shelt) is known for its relaxed seaside vibe, beautiful natural scenery, and outdoor recreation opportunities. It has a quiet downtown area, beautiful views of the passage and Desolation Sound. Sechelt is a great jumping off point for all the recreation on the Sunshine Coast.
Next time we will stay longer in this cute little town.
Final Days
After being on the move for nine days, we decided to enjoy a quiet final day in Halfmoon Bay. We loved our little outdoor space and made use of it through the day while reading and doing some work on the laptop.
Halfmoon Bay
We had a casual early dinner at the historic Halfmoon Bay General Store . Operating since 1937, they recently reopened after a complete rebuild. It will continue to be a gathering place for the community of Halfmoon Bay with its indoor and outdoor seating area. We enjoyed a fresh-made sandwich and some beer sitting in the sun on the deck. The store also has a small selection of groceries and gifts. After our dinner we headed down to the pier to watch the sun set into the Pacific Ocean.
Refreshing local cider
Dinner at Halfmoon General
Sunset on our final night
Heading Home
Day ten and we woke up really early to drive the 45 minutes to the Langdale ferry terminal. The ferry crosses Howe Sound to take us to Horseshoe Bay, about a half hour’s drive on into Vancouver. The ferry is free in this direction (surprisingly) but still requires a reservation in the summer. We had a reservation for the 7am boat but actually got on the 6:30am. It was a stunning boat ride as the sun was coming up with the route weaving in and out of the islands.
Gorgeous morning
Originally we had planned to finish this trip with a couple of days in Vancouver, but due to commitments back home we had to cancel that part of our trip. Vancouver is a favorite destination though, and I hope to get back to that beautiful city again soon.
Sunrise from the ferry
Road Trip Sunshine Coast British Columbia
Our ten day British Columbia road trip with part one on Vancouver Island and part two on the Sunshine Coast was better than we could have hoped. We loved all of our accommodations, the food, the sites, the history, the hiking, the sea…everything. The people are kind, the exchange rate is incredible, the ferry system is fairly priced and reliable. Wow. What more could you want?
Thank you Canada!
Thank you for reading Part Two of our BC Road Trip; Road Trip Sunshine Coast British Columbia. See last week’s post Road Trip Vancouver Island British Columbia here. Stay tuned for more fun travel posts coming to you soon!
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Schwab’s latest epic novel is pretty dark and bloody. Although she is one of my favorite authors, this one was not really for me. I didn’t hate it, but didn’t love it either. Here is my Book Review Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E. Schwab.
Vampire
The word vampire is only used a couple times in this 544 page novel, but it’s clear early on what Schwab is eluding to in this new novel. Of course her work is always magical and mystical and often violent. But this book is the darkest and bloodiest of any I have read. The story follows three women through centuries…three vampires through different eras. Three bloodthirsty women with an insatiable hunger for blood.
Characters
In most of Schwab’s book’s I have fallen in love with the characters, even those who are violent. But in this book I couldn’t love these raging women, and the story dragged. Of all the characters the modern day Alice was the easiest to identify with, and be hopeful for, in a hopeless situation.
Book Review Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E. Schwab
There were parts of this book that held me rapt. But generally I found it more contrived than any of Schwab’s previous work. I am aware I will be in the minority here. The book has been long anticipated, solidly reviewed and will be wildly popular. You may like it too. But, this one was not my favorite.
***Three stars for Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E. Schwab. Thanks for reading my Book Review Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E. Schwab. See last week’s book review Orphans of the Living by Kathy Watson. And be sure to see our Reading Round Up 2025 for our top book of our reading year.
Canada. It’s my next door neighbor. All my life I have taken British Columbia for granted. It’s funny how close and yet so far it seems, having only visited Victoria and Whistler. I have spent the last decade traveling ALL OVER the world, but not really considering my closest neighbor and friend, beautiful British Columbia, Canada. So summer 2025 I committed to visiting and enjoying this remarkable place. Here is my story Road Trip Vancouver Island British Columbia.
Mackenzie Beach Tofino BC
Oh Canada
My last visit to Canada was when we traveled across Canada pulling our pink trailer “Betty” in 2016. That was the very start of the Grand Adventure…seems like a lifetime ago. A lot has happened since then, but I have great memories of that trip and the kind people, amazing nature and interesting history along the way. That trip gave us the opportunity to visit six provinces bringing our total to eight of the thirteen. It’s a huge country, and I doubt we will ever see it’s most remote regions. But we have no excuse not to have seen more of British Columbia, less than two hours from our home in Washington State. Thus our Road Trip Vancouver Island British Columbia.
Ontario Canada in our ’63 Aloha trailer named Betty
Middle Beach Tofino Vancouver Island
Part One
We broke our ten day trip into two parts; part one Road Trip Vancouver Island British Columbia and part two the Sunshine Coast on the mainland. So I have broken my blog posts also into two parts as well. Today I present part one Road Trip Vancouver Island British Columbia. We spent five days, and easily could have spent two weeks on Vancouver Island alone. We will be back. Here is what we saw.
Port Angeles Washington
We took our time driving from our home in Port Orchard Washington to Port Angeles Washington, about a two hour drive. It’s one of my favorite drives close to our home, traversing over the Hood Canal Bridge and stopping on Marrowstone Island, Chimacum (CHEM-ə-kəm) and Sequim (skwim). Because our reservation on the Black Ball Ferry was very early in the morning, we spent the night in the simple but comfortable Olympic View Inn.
Marrowstone Island
Finn River Cidery
Finn River Cidery
Sequim is famous for lavender
Black Ball Ferry
Sunrise at the Ferry terminal Port Angeles
Day Two we were up very early and in line for the ferry by 6:15am. This ferry requires an advance reservation which can be made at the Black Ball Ferry line website. Cost for car, driver and passenger was $101 plus a $12 reservation fee. It is a 90 min crossing, calm on this day but it can get rough. We some how lucked out and were the very first car off the boat, breezed through passport control and were on our way within minutes. No time in Victoria this trip, but if you haven’t visited Victoria it is a must on a first-timers Vancouver Island itinerary. At least one night and two is better.
On the ferry to Canada
Duncan
Instead of time in Victoria we headed directly to the small historic town of Duncan. It’s an easy drive, less than hour from the ferry terminal in Victoria.
Today, Duncan is the commercial center of the Cowichan (kow·wee·chn) Region and attracts visitors to its trendy boutiques, art and antique galleries. It is also known as the “City of Totems” and that is what attracted us to the beautiful small town. Some 80 carved totem poles depicting the historic legends of the First Nations are easy to see with a self-guided walking tour through the historic core.
Historic and beautiful little town
Chemainus
Less than half an hour drive north from Duncan, we found ourselves in another small historic British Columbia town known as Chemainus (She-MAY-nus). I met a woman several decades ago who was from Chemainus and she told me about the Chemainus Murals. I’ve been wanting to see them ever since.
Chemainus Murals
It’s a treasure hunt to find each one
Chemainus History
Chemainus, BC, began as an unincorporated logging and seaport town in 1858, with its name derived from the Stz’uminus First Nation.
This one is my fav
Chemainus Murals
The town transformed in the 1980s when it embraced a unique mural project to revitalize its economy after the closure of its main industry. Today, Chemainus is known as “The Little Town That Did” and “The Mural Town,” featuring over 50 outdoor murals and sculptures that depict the town’s history and culture.
Lunchtime
We really enjoyed our self-guided mural walk, as well as a lovely lunch on a beautiful sunny BC day. After lunch we walked down to the lower town, home to the mill and shops. Chemainus is definitely worth a couple hours on your road trip.
Some beautiful parks in Chemainus
Lots of views
Ladysmith
Just another 15 minutes drive north of Chemainus, we took a moment to visit the historic town of Ladysmith.
Welcome to Ladysmith
Historic First Avenue
Ladysmith History
Ladysmith, British Columbia, began as Oyster Harbour, a settlement established by James Dunsmuir in 1898 to support his coal mining operations. The town was renamed Ladysmith in 1900 to commemorate the British lifting the siege of Ladysmith, South Africa, during the Second Boer War. The town was officially incorporated in 1904.
A brief stop in Ladysmith is worth it
Ladysmith First Ave
The heart of this tiny town is Historic First Avenue. Worth a stroll to shop, dine and admire the historic buildings, some under renovation. We also took time to visit and stroll along the beautiful Transfer Beach park and beach.
Nanaimo
The day was growing short but we wanted to make a brief stop in Nanaimo (nuh·nai·mow), although frankly we should have stayed longer and will next time.
Nanaimo History
Nanaimo’s history is deeply rooted in its Indigenous peoples, the Snuneymuxw (snoo-NAY-muxw), and the arrival of European settlers. Initially, it was known as Colvilletown, established by the Hudson’s Bay Company around a trading post. The name Nanaimo, derived from the Snuneymuxw word “Sne-ny-mo,” meaning “a big, strong tribe,” was adopted in 1860. The city’s development was significantly influenced by the discovery of coal in the area, leading to a boom in mining and industry.
Red’s Bakery Nanaimo
Nanaimo Bars
We came for the Nanaimo Bars. Nanaimo bars, a no-bake dessert, are named after the city of Nanaimo. The bars are believed to have originated in the 1950s, with the earliest known recipe appearing in a 1952 cookbook. While the exact origin story is debated, the bars gained significant popularity in the 1980s, particularly after a contest to find the “ultimate” Nanaimo bar recipe. After a Google search we ended up enjoying a very rich and delicious Nanaimo Bar at Red’s Bakery. Definitely worth a visit.
Rich and chocolaty
Delicious
Qualicum Beach
After a long day with an early wake up we were happy to arrive at our spot for the night in Qualicum (kwaa·luh·km) Beach. We were pretty tired, and did not have a lot of time to see any sites in Qualicum Beach. But we got settled into a little Bed and Breakfast Oceanside Manor and then headed out for a walk along the ocean promenade. The weather was excellent and the views as well and we stopped to enjoy delicious fish and chips in the sun. On our next visit to BC I would plan a full day here as well as considering continuing north to Campbell River. We will save that for next time.
Oceanside Manor
Qualicum Beach promenade
Perfect weather for outdoor dining
Westward Ho
Our hosts at Oceanside Manor made sure we had a delicious and hearty breakfast before saying our farewells and heading West across the island. I enjoyed this drive immensely as we took our time to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the interior of Vancouver Island on our way to Tofino..
Salmon Infused Eggs on Avocado Toast. Wow.
Cathedral Grove
One of my favorite things we did on this entire trip was this hike in Cathedral Grove, also known as MacMillan Park. Less than 30 minutes from Qualicum Beach. Beware! Parking is limited. We got lucky and found a spot that allowed us to enjoy the trails that are located on both sides of the road. Technically you are not supposed to cross the road, there are no crosswalks or safe crossings. We did manage it however, and found the nature on both sides astonishing. You might consider doing the trails on the north side one day, and on your return east you could hike the south side trails.
Big Douglas Fir Trees
Lots of Big Trees
The Cathedral Grove trails are home to some of the oldest, largest and most beautiful Douglas Firs in the world. Certainly worth a visit. The trails are flat, easy and should be manageable for most abilities. Some of the walking is done on raised boardwalks, protecting the fragile ecosystem. Does this place look familiar to you? Famed director George Lucas shot scenes for Star Wars VI: Return of the Jedi here, using the larger-than-life trees as the backdrop for the Ewoks home planet of Endor. Don’t miss this stunning forest.
Majestic
Hole in the Wall
Not easy to find, or to park. About 20 minutes west of Cathedral Grove you will come to Port Alberni, home of Hole in the Wall. We turned around at the Coombs Candy Store and parked back up Highway 4 about 100 yards, just along the busy highway. Didn’t feel very safe, but there were other cars parked there too. The hike is short and pretty easy along logging roads. I hear it can be mucky in the winter but in the summer dry and nice. If you are inclined, swimming at Hole in the Wall is popular, but we did not. The hole was once a shortcut for the city’s waterline and today is a picturesque waterfall on Vancouver Island.
Lake Kennedy
Continuing on Hwy 4 west we found ourselves hugging the shores of beautiful Kennedy lake, which is the largest lake on the island with a surface area of 6,475 hectares (16,000 acres), according to Wikipedia. It has an irregular shape with two distinct basins, the Main Arm and the Clayoquot (klah-WOK-wət) Arm, connected by a narrow channel. There are several spots to stop and enjoy views of the lake.
Vancouver Island’s largest lake, Lake Kennedy
Ucluelet
Prior to checking into our hotel in Tofino, we made a brief stop in the town of Ucluelet (you-KLEE-let), about 30 minutes south of Tofino. Ucluelet is a popular tourism destination for kayaking, surfing and family fun on the beach. It has a rich history as one of the oldest settlements on Vancouver Island. The name derives from the Nuu-chah-nulth phrase “Yu-clutl-ahts,” meaning “people with a good landing place for canoes”. The Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ First Nation, who have lived in the area for thousands of years, call it “Ucluelet,” which translates to “people of the safe harbour”.
Wild Pacific Trail Hike in Ucluelet
Picturesque Ucluelet
We took some time to walk the very easy and scenic Lighthouse Loop section of the Wild Pacific Trail along a beautiful bluff overlooking the ocean. It was quite busy on a sunny Sunday but easy to see why it was so popular. A great walk with kids and there is also a small museum. Definitely worth a few hours or even an overnight in Ucluelet.
Wild Pacific Trail, Ucluelet
Tofino
It was a long but lovely day in and out of the car and we were happy to arrive at our destination in Tofino (tuh·fee·now). We had booked a room at the stunning Middle Beach Lodge and were excited to find our room had a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean, with a small deck to sit and enjoy it. Middle Beach Lodge has a large variety of room choices, from small two person rooms like ours to large cabins and their new “tree house” rooms both which accommodate more people. I really loved this place and would like to come back with my adult children for a longer stay. Our room with view was only $190 Canadian per night ($140 USD) with breakfast included.
Middle Beach Lodge
Room with a View
MacKenzie Beach
On arrival we just relaxed, walked the property and went on a short hike to the long and beautiful Mackenzie Beach, before dinner. Middle Beach Lodge offers a nightly prix fixe dinner for guests. We had pre-booked it for our first night. It was outstanding, included a welcome glass of wine, crab cake appetizers, serve yourself salad and bread, followed by the main course of locally caught ling cod. Dessert too. Price was $60 Canadian (44 USD), and totally worth the price.
Dinner with a view
Crabcakes my favorite
Tofino Day Two
After an incredible breakfast included with our room at the Middle Beach Lodge we headed out to hike the forested bluff Tonquin trail into the town of Tofino. It’s an easy 2 mile trail with gorgeous views. Definitely worth it instead of driving. We spent several hours exploring the small town, visiting shops and historic sites and reveling in the gorgeous weather before retracing our steps on the bluff trail back to the lodge.
After a shower we drove back into town. Our first stop was Tofino Brewing Company, a popular spot for locals and visitors. We really enjoyed a cold brew and the vibe of the industrial taproom.
A must visit when in Tofino
Tofino Brewing Company
We had pre-booked dinner at one of Tofino’s highest rated restaurants, The Wolf in the Fog. We booked an early spot at 5:15, and were amazed how fast it filled by 5:30. I highly recommend you get a reservation. An inventive and local menu was delicious and the prices were surprisingly good for a semi-fine dining experience.
Wolf in the Fog
Inventive Pirogi
Ribs!
Final Tofino Day
It’s our last day in Tofino and the weather has taken a turn to gray. No worries, we are PNW people! Today we had pre-booked a water taxi (open air) out to Meares Island to do a rugged hike.
Tofino Water Taxi (round trip $40 CAD / $29 USD) met us and a handful of other people on the First Street Dock for the ten minute ride across the bay to Meares. Here we found the Big Tree Trail….a popular but difficult walk through the woods.
That’s our water taxi coming in
Onboard the Tofino Water Taxi
The BigTree Trail is not long, but it is very rough with roots and rocks, mud and includes rough hewn cedar plank raised boardwalk through much of the trail. It took us two hours to go three miles. BUT, if you are up to this hike, you will enjoy some of the most incredible old growth cedar trees I have seen anywhere in my life. Other plant life, birds too. And the boat ride both directions gives you a wonderful view back to Tofino and of the surrounding islands.
Gotta watch your every step
Gigantic Cedar Trees on the Big Trees Trail
Headed back after an adventurous day
Final Evening
Back to our lodge via the Tonquin trail, where we showered and got ready for our final evening in Tofino. First stop happy hour at Middle Beach Lodge, enjoying a gin and tonic and the gorgeous views. Happy Hour is every evening at Middle Beach Lodge from 4-7. Next we headed back into town in the car to dinner at Shelter Restaurant. This restaurant is very popular with visitors and locals for its delicious local menu as well as water view. I really enjoyed the fresh mussels. Highly recommend.
Dinner with a view at Shelter Restaurant
Lots of boaters at Shelter Restaurant
Delicious Muscles and Frites at Shelter
Reverse Gears to Comox
I could easily have spent a few more days in Tofino, and at the wonderful Middle Beach Lodge. But alas our time was over. We began the trek back east across the island where we would catch the ferry to the mainland at Comox. Our ferry reservation was at 3:00pm, so we enjoyed the drive, which took about 3.5 hours.
Heading to mainland BC
More to See
There is much more on the upper island to see, but it was time to move on to our second part of our trip, the Sunshine Coast. I guess we will need another Vancouver road trip soon. Meanwhile, come back next week for more about our time on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast.
Beautiful Vancouver Island
Thanks for reading my post Road Trip Vancouver Island British Columbia. I hope you can use this post as a tool for your own Vancouver Island road trip. Watch for Part Two of our British Columbia Road Trip on the Sunshine Coast. Be sure and see last week’s post Tracking Trolls in the Pacific Northwest. We love it when you share, pin, comment and engage with our blog posts. Thank you.
Note: This book was provided to me gratis by Mind Buck Media in exhange for a review.
The Great Depression. The Stovall family lives hand to mouth. This first time novel by Kathy Watson follows Barney and Lula Stovall and their eventual seven children from Mississippi to Montana and California in search of the elusive life of security and promise. Told from the point of view of each four members of this family, each well developed character has a story to tell. Here is my book review Orphans of the Living by Kathy Watson.
Personal History
Watson tells the story of her own impoverished mother and grandmother, and the difficult life they led in post depression era 1930’s. Surviving the death of her first husband, Lula is left with two young boys. She knows she can never love another man, but when Barney Stovall asks for her hand in marriage she consents, while still grieving the loss of her first husband. Kathy Watson’s real grandmother Lula will spend the rest of her life, either having babies or caring for babies, all while Barney jumps from job to job searching for a better life.
Lula agrees to leave her two boys Glen and Ray with her uncle, when Barney insists they can’t afford to take the entire family to California. He promises her they will send for the boys when they can. Lula falls into a depression as the years go by and she never hears from the boys.
The Last Straw
When Lula finds herself pregnant again, she attempts to abort the baby, only to nearly die herself. The baby is a little girl, Nora Mae. Lula’s deep depression and lack of interest in the new baby will color the child’s entire life, giving her a lifelong desire to just be seen.
Nora Mae
Little Nora Mae will grow up to be author Watson’s mother, despite her difficult and unloving childhood. Her siblings will serve more as parents than either of her parents, and Nora Mae will rebel and look for love elsewhere.
Book Review Orphans of the Living
Unfortunately this kind of family dysfunction was not unheard of during the early years of the 20th century. Families where poor, divided, overworked and underfed. Most American’s would find a similar family story in their own history if they searched. It’s a good reminder for us today, even despite difficult current times, we are still generally better off than our ancestors. We give gratitude to them for forging a path through poverty, racism, and inequality to help next generations achieve a better life.
****Four stars for Orphans for the Living by Kathy Watson. See last week’s READING ROUND UP YEAR END REVIEW 2025. Thanks for reading my book review Orphans of the Living by Kathy Watson.
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Note this post has been updated for summer 2025. It was originally posted August 2, 2024.
I’ve been a big fan of Thomas Dambo ever since I visited the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens and was introduced to his magic there. The blog post I wrote about the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is one of the most popular I’ve ever written. Check it out here. I also visited the Atlanta Botanical Gardens while in Georgia and enjoyed more of his recycled art work there. I was really excited when five of these amazing nature themed sculptures came to the Seattle/Puget Sound region (a 6th is in Portland Oregon). So I went tracking trolls in the Pacific Northwest.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Atlanta Botanical Gardens
Taking a nap at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
I love this one at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
Who is Thomas Dambo
I am intrigued by this man and his mission. In his own words…
I’m Thomas Dambo, Danish recycling artist. Our world is drowning in trash while we are running out of natural resources. In 2011 I quit my job to become an artist and follow my mission to ‘Waste no more’.
Today, I spend my life showing the world that beautiful things can be made out of trash. I give new life to discarded materials by turning them into large-scale artworks. My journey has led me to create artworks in 20 countries across five continents, including my giant Trolls, plastic works, birdhouses, and Happy Wall exhibitions. All these projects are realized using hundreds of tons of recycled materials, working in and with local communities, who are co-creators of the art that I make because the mission I follow needs the involvement of everybody. I also host talks as a speaker, such as TEDx talk, and sometimes I host workshops to teach people how to reuse and upcycle.
Before visiting the local trolls in the Puget Sound region you really need to visit the amazing website NW Trolls. You can learn a lot of interesting information and find a map of the trolls too. I was intrigued to learn why the Scan Design Foundation chose to present this outdoor art exhibit to the region. Here is more…
Oscar the Bird King, Vashon Island
This ambitious public art project is presented by Scan Design Foundation, whose mission is to support Danish-American relations with a focus on environmental sustainability.NWTrolls: Way of the Bird King features six giant hand-built troll sculptures by Danish environmental artist, Thomas Dambo. The publicly-accessible sculptures are located around the Pacific Northwest where each whimsical troll sculpture is part of an underlying environmental story. The project celebrates the human experience of art by amplifying the connections of cultural heritage between Coast Salish tribal communities and Scandinavian traditions. Thanks to our funding partners and host site partners, there is no admission fee to visit any of the trolls.
Everyone loves Pea the Peacekeeper on Bainbridge Island
Tracking Trolls in the Pacific Northwest
I started my treasure hunt a year ago. The six trolls (five in the Seattle area and one in Portland) were built on each site during the spring and early summer of 2023. We visited our first troll on Bainbridge Island, which is about 40 minutes from my home where we spend our summers.
I loved Pea’s hair made from found sticks in the nearby forest
Last September on the day we were headed to the airport to begin 8 months of travel, we took some time in West Seattle to find our second troll. One of the smaller trolls in the collection, Bruun is hiding in plan sight near the Lincoln Park waterfront.
Back in the USA for the summer I made a commitment to find the three remaining trolls close to my home. I won’t be able to get to the Portland one this year. Since our adult sons live in the Ballard area, it was easy to find this little man, standing sentry outside the amazing Ballard Nordic Heritage Museum.
Make day trip to Vashon Island to find the next troll, which is exactly what we did on a beautiful July day. Three ferries make their way to the close yet remote island; Fauntleroy in West Seattle, Point Defiance in Tacoma and Southworth in Port Orchard on the Kitsap Peninsula. Vashon may seem far away, but it really isn’t and meeting magnificent Oscar the Bird King is worth it. I think this one is my favorites.
I made my way to the beautiful community of Issaquah to find my last troll of my Tracking Trolls in the Pacific Northwest Journey. I lived and worked in Issaquah 35 years ago…wow just saying that blows my mind. But still today this community and it’s people hold a special place in my heart. And now so does Jakob.
Jakob Two Trees
Rainier Trail, Issaquah Community Center, Issaquah
What a wonderful surprise to find Nordic Northwest, a place I had never heard of before. We went in search of Olle Bolle, the last of the Pacific Northwest Thomas Dambo trolls I wanted to see. And “ya sure ya betcha” we found him – at Nordic Northwest. What a wonderful spot for food and education and heritage of the Nordic history of the region. Olle Bolle is located about two and half hours from Seattle, in the iconic Pacific Northwest town of Portland Oregon. Learn more about Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest Portland Oregon here.
Troll Life
The trolls stay in their respective homes for about three years…some longer depending on if they are being cared for. Since each troll is constructed from natural and recycled material, the local weather will determine their life length. A couple of trolls in this list have already required some maintenance, due to abuse and inclement weather. You should see them soon, while they still are in their mostly original state.
Seattle’s Original Troll
Still holding court, now for more than 30 years, is Seattle’s favorite son – the Fremont Troll. A favorite of locals and some visitors too if they know where to find him. I couldn’t write a troll post without mentioning this one-eyed monster we all know and love. Have you visited the original troll under the Fremont Bridge?
The Fremont Troll more than 30 years guarding the Fremont Bridge
The Fremont Troll
Find the Fremont Troll N.36th Street at Troll Avenue N., under the north end of the George Washington Memorial Bridge (also known as the Aurora Bridge).
Still looking good!
What’s Next?
Dambo’s popularity continues to grow around the United States. Many communities are now home to his whimsical trolls. I’m personally hoping for more Dambo Trolls in the Pacific Northwest over the next few years. They just make me happy!
As you likely know if you have been following all these years, I track my reading year from July to July – why not be different from everyone else who tracks January to January?. Nothing fancy, just keep a little tally in my notebook of all the books I read. This year I read 85 books, (eight more than last year) and today I will share with you some of my favorites for the Eighth Annual Reading Round Up 2025.
Over the past year I have written 53 book reviews, pulling into reviews my favorites of the 85 books. Most of my reading is done on my Kindle while traveling, a few hardback and paperback and a few more on Audible. I like Audible for car trips, a great way to be entertained on the road.
So as in the past several years, I’m sharing my most favorites from July ’24 to July ’25. I have a top ten list, and ten honorable mentions too. Some outstanding novels, biographies, historical non-fiction, as well as Booker finalists. Other than the number one slot, The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon, the books are in no particular order. So here we go, my Eighth Annual Reading Round Up 2025;
My Favorite Book of the Year. I listened to it on Audible while we were traveling in Australia. It was well written and well narrated. Though a work of fiction, Lawhon has well researched the story of real life 18th century midwife Martha Ballard and woven a remarkable tale of mystery, family, love and perseverance. Set in a cold frozen Maine in 1789.
There are thousands of really good writers. And then there are the masters. Akbar’s first novel, Martyr is a mastering of the art of language. Cyrus Shams, an Iranian young man, moved to America as a child with his father. He has struggled through his life with the tragic knowledge that his mother died on commercial plane, shot down by Americans over the Persian Gulf. An incredible story unfolds.
Ancient and modern this book felt like reading a fairy tale. I was enraptured from the beginning – the beginning where we meet a tiny raindrop and follow the rivers in the sky through generations.
Grace Winters leads a self-proclaimed boring life in England as a 72-year-old retired teacher and widow. That is until she receives an email from a former student. Grace’s response to her student Maurice will be the entire novel – in all it’s beautifully written language, incredibly developed characters, fantastical magic and mystery…and a tropical paradise too.
What a great feel good novel. This is a story of being different. Being bullied because of it. And finding a way through it all to succeed and be happy. Dugoni has two books in my top ten list this year, see below. You must read his work.
This is a story about an unlikely hero. Just a boy. A boy born with an abnormality to a single mother in the south in the early part of the 20th century. When anyone who was not white or “normal” was dehumanized, hunted, condemned and chastized. Johnny Cruel lives this life. Mustian has two books on my top ten list this year (see below).
This is a beautiful coming of age story set in the high mountains of Colorado post WWII. Love grows in many ways; between people, for the land, for family, for nature, for a way of life. At the heart of this story is love.
Incredible. I am an avid historical fiction reader, particularly when the plot is based on real events and people. Having recently been to and fallen in love with Armenia and the surrounding Caucasus countries, I devoured this story. Mustian makes my top ten list twice – see above Boy with Wings.
Hold Strong is a story of true events that occurred during war time, this story is WWII. Despite the fact there are literally hundreds of novels and non-fiction books about WWII – I was unaware of the horrific “hell ships” of the Japanese military. A truly remarkable book, and the second of Dugoni’s work to make my top ten this year. See Boy with Wings above.
The underlying theme of this mind-bending book is ambition and the evil it begets. The book bounces back and forth over a decade time frame with two brilliant college roommates, Eli & Victor, creating a chaotic and dangerous game for their Senior Thesis. When things go terribly wrong, people start to die. I am a huge fan of V.E. Schwab and this book was excellent.
Thanks for reading my Eighth Annual Reading Round Up 2025 and for reading all my book reviews this past year. Every Wednesday I post a new review…I hope you will continue to enjoy, share and comment as we read together.
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