We went to Esquimalt Lagoon this morning after a late start. It was nice to lay in bed a little longer this morning without having anywhere to rush off to. The beach was quiet and it was nice to look out over the low waves to the several small boats further out. I had wanted to come here as I have photos of being here around Coopers' age with my grandfather. We enjoyed all the driftwood, wading, and the sounds of the beach. The kids made a semi-functioning se...

After another continental breakfast in the black smoke-filled breakfast room of our hotel, we retired to our room to wait for a decent hour to go see my grandpa again. We brought him two photos of Holly and Brookes' dance photos and the crafts Brooke and Cooper had made for him which i have to say survived the trip remarkably well. Big plans today are to go see Aunt Liz and Uncle Frank and show Liz that Coopers' cuddle blanket is the same one she sewed for Holl...

After a light breakfast in the lobby based dining room of the Super 8 Motel in Victoria, we headed over to my grandfather's retirement residence. A very upscale place and very friendly people. It was a joy to see him and give him a big hug and he was very happy to see us. We stayed for about an hour during which time Debbie came by, so we all had a great visit. We have made plans to all go out for supper together on Monday at The Old Spaghetti Factory to cele...

On the road by 8:15 am after a great stay at the Ramada. $89 total, including tax and a good continental breakfast. We would stay here again. We will drive for a bit to the Outlet malls where we will have a break and then onto our 5:15 pm reservation on the ferry to take us to Victoria. The kids are excited about going on a big boat and this means we get to see my grandfather tomorrow! Pulled over at a scenic view point and were fascinated to see a "watch fo...

As we pull away from the Holiday Inn Express in Belgrade, I feel I should offer the following information in case any one travels this way and considers staying here. This is the worst Holiday Inn Express we have ever stayed in. The only good thing was that the breakfast was good, which, in fact, does nothing in the way of making ammends for the overpowering stench of cheap perfume that the room was apparently fumigated with prior to our arrival, the tiny bathr...