Satin Flower

Here is one of our very earliest spring wildflowers, the delicate little Satin Flower (Olsynium douglasii). While these are not really rare, I've only ever seen them in small isolated patches. These ones pop up in the same spots every year near the summit of Highrock Park in Vic West. The flowers seem almost too heavy for the slender stems and jostle around in the slightest breeze, making them very difficult to photograph.

Government House 2

Government House has a wonderful collection of art including some from First Nations artists. Above is a magnificent early Bill Reid work. We were informed that the unusual work below is NOT a totem pole but is a "House Pole" meant for interior decoration.

Anniversary

Eight years ago I posted this photo of my shadow on a the trunk of a Garry Oak tree as the first photo of this blog. Lately I find myself thinking from time to time that I've photographed everything here once of not more than that but then something comes along like the recent tour of Government House that Fern and I took and I realize there is still lots to see and photograph in this city. I will take this opportunity to thank all the regular visitors for stopping by and especially those who leave comments - JoJo, William Kendall, Stephanie, Furry Gnome and others. I may not always answer your comments but I always read them and appreciate the time and effort you take to make them. I hope we'll all stick around for another year or two - there's always something new to discover in and around Victoria.

Government House

On Saturday Fern and I took advantage of one of the occasional tours offered at Government House. Government House is the residence of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, the Queen's representative in our province. It is also the official residence of the Queen when she and other members of the royal family visit here. Visiting dignitaries such as heads of state are also accommodated here from time to time and the Lieutenant Governor acts as host on behalf of the people of British Columbia. It was a fascinating tour and I recommend it highly to anyone who has the opportunity while visiting here. The building and its furnishings and artworks were rendered doubly interesting by the charm and enthusiasm of our knowledgeable tour guide. You can find out more about Government House and future tour dates on their website: http://www.ltgov.bc.ca/ and Wikipedia also has a comprehensive article. Below is the dining room where small (up to 40 guests) state dinners are held.

Hidden City

Funny story: yesterday was a glorious sunny day and Benjamin and I headed across town to tour Government House where BC's Lieutenant Governor lives in Fairfield. It's beautiful inside and it was fascinating to learn about all the things that happen there but did I take a single good picture? No. Not one! So instead the above photo is from one of Victoria's historical downtown office buildings, 612 View Street. This beautiful staircase descends from the sixth floor all in beautiful white marble. It's one of those hidden gems in an old city like Victoria. - Fern