I was sorry to have had to leave this great century old gem bordered by fabulous gardens in both the front and back yards as well as mature trees up and down my host's street. Jennifer and Tom were so welcoming and toured me around the colourful living art work they have obviously toiled so hard over. Coming from New Brunswick, I was anticipating seeing Vancouver Island's early growing season but was still blown away by the beauty of the vivid colours, not only around Victoria but outside the window of my brighly sunbathed, sparkling clean, private bathroom looking out over the gorgeous backyard and the textured rooftops of the neighbourhood. Nice shower by the way.
Not much can slow me down but a nice conversation around the kitchen table in the morning over a steaming cup of tea did it yesterday. It was nice to hear how Tom and Jennifer met, their interests, stories about their kids and inlaws, their interesting travels and of course their vast knowledge of gardening. They were spot on when they recommended a local eatery called the 5th Street Pub. I had the most succulent roast chicken supper the night of my arrival served with garlic whipped mashed potatoes and roasted veggies. The service was good though a bit slow at times yet they were busy with a suppertime crowd at this pub. I loved the open fireplace where I sat and enjoyed my meal topping it all off with peanut butter pie (made in house). Very decadent dessert, too darned close to Jennifer and Tom's and yes the temptation was too much to not go and enjoy Eggs Benny the next morning.
If you are here during the right season, do walk up Prior Street to Summit Park. It is a quaint little neighbourhood hideaway on an escarpment like plateau that is awash in a Papal purple from an endangered plant Jennifer told me is called a Camas (spelling??). I couldn't put my camera down when I first arrived. It was a joy to walk through and won't take up any more time than you would want it to.
Let's get back to the Air B and B. My second floor bedroom had wonderful windows letting in the morning sun and best of all the bird songs from the local (original) tweeters (sorry Elon). The bed was like sleeping on a cloud and I must find out where the pillows and duvet came from. It was perfect. The cool morning could be offset with an efficient heater in my room and it came in handy despite it being May in Victoria. There was a spacious closet where I could hide my junk and pretend not to be a slob for once in my life and an interesting ceiling that had several angles that caught my interest when staring up at it from my fluffy cloud in the morning.
The proximity of this great Air B and B was perfect for me, I had to travel to downtown Victoria, Oak Bay, Saanich and eventually up island. I could easily get to all of the places I needed to.
I really enjoyed my stay with Jennifer and Tom and hope to be back again next year (pending Covid etc). Oh, I nearly forgot to mention Tom's fine craftwork. He builds kayaks which are works of art. If you can, ask him to show one to you. Marvelous creations that sadly would not fit into my suitcase but would make me the envy of everyone on the Saint John River in picturesque New Brunswick.
Thank you Jennifer and Tom...and convivial Ms. Mae too (their sweet pup). .....Mack.....