celebrating spring at seal bay

Walking along a beautiful forest trail to emerge at a great beach during low tide is pretty much my favourite outing with kids. It has all the ingredients needed for a good time - trees, sticks, dirt, driftwood, rocks, water, sand, shells and creatures. All those "loose parts" that lend themselves to exploration, imaginative play and wonder. There are wide open spaces to run in, and cozy little crannies for hiding. There are places to dig and things to dig with. There are items to toss and treasures to find. Whole universes to explore and stories to invent.

Well, that old reliable formula came through once again. We had a great time at Seal Bay Nature Park last weekend with the Family Nature Club. We walked, and ran, on the beach trail down to the shore. The tide was way out and offered up all kinds of surprises: a profusion of purple starfish, aggregate sea anemones, tiny sand dollars and great big crabs. One was a momma with a giant egg sack. Too cool!

There was plenty of running, climbing, poking and playing. There was even a driftwood fort to claim and conquer. Sure there were a few pairs of wet feet, but that's the cost of having fun. It was a perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon and welcome in the first day of spring.

My heart was happy and proud to see my oldest, who earlier that day informed me he didn't want to go on any stupid walk, wandering ecstatically through the woods enrapt in some story of adventure. He didn't want to come home. Just about a perfect day! Thanks to all of you who joined us.

island festivals celebrate spring

Spring happens in a big way on the island with wildlife migrations of epic proportions. 10,000 gray whales are making their way up the coast to their summer feeding grounds after spending the winter months in the warm waters off the coast of Baja California. This 12, 000 mile round trip journey is the longest migration of any mammal on earth. Joining them are swarms of herring on their annual run along the east coast of the island looking for ideal conditions to spawn. Waterfowl are also on the move, as the Brant goose returns to the island in the tens of thousands.

There are two great island festivals celebrating these natural wonders. The Brant Wildlife Festival occurs from March 5 to April 28 at various mid-island locations with a variety of events from author readings and nature viewing to farm tours and culinary events. The Pacific Rim Whale Festival is happening from March 6-14 in Ucluelet, Tofino and the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Expect food, music, films, First Nations culture and much more while enjoying the beauty of the wild and wet west coast. Both festivals have plenty of family-friendly events and are well worth the drive. What better way to celebrate these awe-inspiring annual events happening in our own backyard.

next meeting - seal bay nature park

We've chosen March 20th, the first day of spring, for our next gathering. Join us at Seal Bay Nature Park for a hike and some fun on the beach. Seal Bay Nature Park, which can be found on Bates Road, is further south than we usually venture but well worth the drive. We'll be searching for signs of spring along the trail, on the shore, and out on the water.

We will meet at the parking area on Bates Road at 1:30 pm. Bring a snack and come prepared for the weather. The trail is well developed, but quite steep in areas. Hope to see you there!