Normally when we return to Canada from a trip overseas we arrive via the Vancouver International Airport. It's just a little bit different to arrive in Victoria via an American Cruise Ship. The ship eases in to it's berth just a few blocks from the Parliament Buildings. As you exit the ship there are flower baskets on old fashioned light standards and a couple welcoming you in costumes reminiscent of the 1800s.... translate that as a guy in a red coat and silk tights and a lady in a big flowered hat with a bustle. OK... so this is Canada?!

Did I mention we had to get our picture taken with a beaver?

Well we ducked that commitment and met our friends patiently waiting outside the gates. Gary and Lynn treated us as guests in our own country. We really enjoy their company which made it all the better as we wandered through Butchart Gardens, saw a Castle (I didn't even know was there) and shared a bottle of wine at the Oak Bay Marina. Afterwards we met Linda and Dan at the Empress Hotel. There is never enough time to share with friends.

Made it back to the ship at 11:30... didn't want to be late. Apparently a group missed the ship deadline in Ketchikan and had to fly down to Victoria to pick up the rest of the cruise and reunite with the rest of the family. They missed Glacier Bay which was billed as the highlight of the trip.... not to mention the extra costs involved. Glad that wasn't us!!

So, the Cruise is over now. We made it back to Seattle arriving on another beautiful day. Visited my cousin in Ferndale en route home which is always a pleasure.

My thoughts about cruising..... well, it is certainly different. I had a difficult time with the excess... with the bling.... with the hype. I kept thinking about so many of the places we have travelled where food and descent shelter are so scarce. It is hard to shake the feeling that we have so much in North America. Cruising just puts it in your face.

Our next trip is planned and it is not cruising. That being said you have to know that the cruise to the Antarctic was beyond amazing and if you get the chance..... go!!