Photo Challenge Day # 73 & # 74

Day # 73

We had a nice relaxing stay at the lake day. A good day for bird watching of all types. I even witnessed a falcon fishing for its dinner. We walked, talked, drank wine, and delicious soda that was brewed in Victoria & watched the boaters on the lake. 

Yellow Broom

Broom

When we were driving on the Island, along side of the road you could see these yellow flowering bushes. I am told they are invasive, but beautiful. Maybe better than dandelions?

Bunk house 

Ancient tree 

Buddha (fungi) 

Photo Challenge Day # 73 "Hobbit forest" 

A beautiful place, I felt very fortunate to have spent a few days there! Thank you to the hostess!

Day # 74

Victoria Day! In town, in Victoria, there were celebrations, starting with a parade and the Highland games. We had decided to drive into town and go and see if anyone was at home at Craigdarroch Castle and Government house. 

We drove around the Rock land area, I just love the older, Victorian homes. The stories they walls and windows could tell. 

Craigdarroch Castle is impressive, from the time you enter the front gates to when you leave. No house would be complete without a Dance Hall, Billiard Room, a Dining and a Breakfast Room! I loved the stain glass windows. 

Drawing Room

Breakfast Room

Craigdarroch Castle had become Victoria College, from 1921-1946. I found graffiti written in pencil is the master bedroom. Makes you wonder about these people and where they are now? 

Names now a part of history. 

View from Mrs. Dunsmuirs Master bedroom

graffitti and math problems

A cool place to sit 

Craigdorroch Castle 

Our next stop was Government House. I felt like I was trespassing  and invading privacy when we were walking about the beautiful gardens and the grounds. I know I didn't see everything in the gardens. 

Front entry 

Back View 

hmmm, notice a tiny fender bender?

My mother had told me that she and my father had luncheon at Government House. What a memory that was for her. In the carriage house, there was an empty space between a carriage, and this white car…hmmm…must of decided to use the other car for the Victoria Day Festivities! 

One of my favourite plants
Not sure what it is called. 

These flowering bushes are everywhere and in every colour!

A young duck in the Government House Duck Pond
Photo Challenge Day # 74 "THE Duck" 

Our last stop was down at Fisherman's Wharf! The smell of the ocean, the fragrant smell of  "fish n' chips. 

I loved the colours of the Floating Houses! No lawns to mow, no dandelions! I am sure they have their own set of problems, eh! 

Floating Houses 

Boats on Fisherman's Wharf

Floating Houses 

We ended the day with Grilled Halibut, fresh broccolini, salad, white wine and ice cream on the deck at Shawnigan lake. 

Take off!! 

One more posting from our last day….

Jewels