Victoria is my hometown, born and raised with the exception of living in Toronto for the other half of my life. But even then, I kept coming back. A few weeks ago, people started to emerge from the pandemic to enjoy some of the beautiful scenery this city has to offer. Here are some photos from the Chinese cemetery and Kitty Islet overlooking the Juan de Fuca Strait. This is actually my husbands old mail route and he misses it!
Taking advantage of the longer days, my husband and I took a drive out to China beach this past weekend. It was glorious and so well needed. The soft dark volcanic sand hugged the big black basalt stones rising out of the sea floor contrasting perfectly against the bright pacific ocean colours and the blue sky backdrop. It was a west coast serving of intoxicating sights and sounds. Along the way, we admired some beach stones and other ocean treasures such as chiton shells, fish heads, sea weed and even a bit of sea glass. I always feel better when I am surrounded by nature. We are fortunate to be at an arms reach from these places but of course I dream of being even closer; to immerse ones self in nature is a perfect life and it’s one I strive to achieve.
There is no doubt in my mind that even the inanimate natural objects hold more secrets than we can ever know. We take for granted the abundance of black stones all around us, for they are non living, non feeling objects. But they serve a structural purpose for our earth. The interconnectedness of not only living beings but the matter that upholds life provides a ground to stand on. Better yet, it provides a way to ground our own bodies, first making contact with our feet, better experienced without shoes. Spring is close and as the warmer temperatures draw near, it is the perfect opportunity to rub bare feet against these ocean floor basalt stones; for they are the natural masters of massage. Next time you find yourself around soft stones, go ahead and give your feet (and hands and face) a rub. You might be surprised as to how good it feels. At the very least, take a moment to observe their purpose and presence.
