. Jalbum 8.3 slides/1_AlaskaRR.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Riding the Alaska Railroad from Anchorage to Whittier with Dan's mom, Esther. Riding the Alaska Railroad from Anchorage to Whittier with Dan's mom, Esther. slides/1_AlaskaRR.JPG slides/2_Oscar.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Dan holds Oscar the Moose who was purchased at the train station in Whittier. Oscar accompanied us on the rest of our journey. Dan holds Oscar the Moose who was purchased at the train station in Whittier. Oscar accompanied us on the rest of our journey. slides/2_Oscar.JPG slides/P5163490.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The view from the train on the way to Whittier. The view from the train on the way to Whittier. slides/P5163490.JPG slides/P5163494.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The view from the train on the way to Whittier. The view from the train on the way to Whittier. slides/P5163494.JPG slides/P5163508.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The view from the train on the way to Whittier. (A lone car drives alongside the train.) The view from the train on the way to Whittier. (A lone car drives alongside the train.) slides/P5163508.JPG slides/P5163512.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 On the 26-Glacier Cruise prior to boarding the ship in Whittier. On the 26-Glacier Cruise prior to boarding the ship in Whittier. slides/P5163512.JPG slides/P5163514.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 On the 26-Glacier Cruise prior to boarding the ship in Whittier. On the 26-Glacier Cruise prior to boarding the ship in Whittier. slides/P5163514.JPG slides/P5163539.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 On the 26-Glacier Cruise prior to boarding the ship in Whittier. (One of the largest glaciers we saw on this excursion.) On the 26-Glacier Cruise prior to boarding the ship in Whittier. (One of the largest glaciers we saw on this excursion.) slides/P5163539.JPG slides/P5163543.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 On the 26-Glacier Cruise prior to boarding the ship in Whittier. (One of the largest glaciers we saw on this excursion.) On the 26-Glacier Cruise prior to boarding the ship in Whittier. (One of the largest glaciers we saw on this excursion.) slides/P5163543.JPG slides/P5163550.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 On the 26-Glacier Cruise prior to boarding the ship in Whittier. A huge chunk of striated ice has "calved" or fallen from the glacier. On the 26-Glacier Cruise prior to boarding the ship in Whittier. A huge chunk of striated ice has "calved" or fallen from the glacier. slides/P5163550.JPG slides/P5163551.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 All of the ice in the water has calved off the glacier. All of the ice in the water has calved off the glacier. slides/P5163551.JPG slides/P5163555.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Another of the glaciers we saw on the 26-Glacier Cruise. Another of the glaciers we saw on the 26-Glacier Cruise. slides/P5163555.JPG slides/P5163559.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 In Spring, waterfalls abound in Alaska! In Spring, waterfalls abound in Alaska! slides/P5163559.JPG slides/P5183573_text.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Lido deck, sailing through Glacier Bay. Lido deck, sailing through Glacier Bay. slides/P5183573_text.jpg slides/P5183586.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Sailing through Glacier Bay on the Diamond Princess. Sailing through Glacier Bay on the Diamond Princess. slides/P5183586.JPG slides/P5183588.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Sailing through Glacier Bay on the Diamond Princess. Sailing through Glacier Bay on the Diamond Princess. slides/P5183588.JPG slides/P5193594.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 In Skagway it is customary for a ship's crew to paint a notice of its arrival on the mountainside the first time it sails into town. In Skagway it is customary for a ship's crew to paint a notice of its arrival on the mountainside the first time it sails into town. slides/P5193594.JPG slides/P5193596.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 More ship arrival notices. More ship arrival notices. slides/P5193596.JPG slides/P5193597.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Political issue: Whether a road should be built to Juneau, which is currently accessible only by sea or air. Political issue: Whether a road should be built to Juneau, which is currently accessible only by sea or air. slides/P5193597.JPG slides/P5193598.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The port in Skagway. Our ship is to the left. Across the port from our ship is a Holland America ship and a Celebrity ship. (Four ships can dock in Skagway at the same time.) The port in Skagway. Our ship is to the left. Across the port from our ship is a Holland America ship and a Celebrity ship. (Four ships can dock in Skagway at the same time.) slides/P5193598.JPG slides/P5193599.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Walking to town in Skagway. Walking to town in Skagway. slides/P5193599.JPG slides/P5193600.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 I have no idea what this building is but I think it is very cool looking. Note the blue glass bottles along the top. I have no idea what this building is but I think it is very cool looking. Note the blue glass bottles along the top. slides/P5193600.JPG slides/P5193606.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Our ship, the Diamond Princess, docked in Skagway. Our ship, the Diamond Princess, docked in Skagway. slides/P5193606.JPG slides/P5193622.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Oscar pokes his head out of our backpack on the White Pass Summit Rail trip from Skagway to Fraser, B.C. This train was built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush. Oscar pokes his head out of our backpack on the White Pass Summit Rail trip from Skagway to Fraser, B.C. This train was built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush. slides/P5193622.JPG slides/P5193630.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The view from the White Pass Summit Rail. It looks scarier from the outside than when you are riding in it. The view from the White Pass Summit Rail. It looks scarier from the outside than when you are riding in it. slides/P5193630.JPG slides/P5193634.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The view from the the White Pass Summit Rail. The view from the the White Pass Summit Rail. slides/P5193634.JPG slides/P5193650.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The view from the the White Pass Summit Rail. Lots of snow remains up in the mountains, even in mid-May. The view from the the White Pass Summit Rail. Lots of snow remains up in the mountains, even in mid-May. slides/P5193650.JPG slides/P5193652.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The view from the the White Pass Summit Rail. The view from the the White Pass Summit Rail. slides/P5193652.JPG slides/P5193655.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Dan poses in front of the "Welcome to Alaska" sign on the return trip to Skagway (by bus). Dan poses in front of the "Welcome to Alaska" sign on the return trip to Skagway (by bus). slides/P5193655.JPG slides/P5193656.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Dan and Oscar pose at a lookout point on the return trip to Skagway (by bus). Dan and Oscar pose at a lookout point on the return trip to Skagway (by bus). slides/P5193656.JPG slides/P5193657.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 I'm fascinated by the gorgeous rock formations we saw in Alaska. I'm fascinated by the gorgeous rock formations we saw in Alaska. slides/P5193657.JPG slides/P5193658.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Waterfalls abound in Alaska in the Spring. Waterfalls abound in Alaska in the Spring. slides/P5193658.JPG slides/P5193661.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Dan likes waterfalls a lot. Dan likes waterfalls a lot. slides/P5193661.JPG slides/P5193666.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Cool-looking rock formations on the way back to Skagway. Cool-looking rock formations on the way back to Skagway. slides/P5193666.JPG slides/P5193673.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The port of Skagway, nestled in the mountains, with four cruise ships docked. The port of Skagway, nestled in the mountains, with four cruise ships docked. slides/P5193673.JPG slides/P5193674.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 This is most of the town of Skagway. Note the airport runway with a small plane taking off. This is most of the town of Skagway. Note the airport runway with a small plane taking off. slides/P5193674.JPG slides/P5203677.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Walking toward Mendenhall Glacier. LIONS AND TIGERS AND BEARS OH MY!! (Okay, there are no lions or tigers. But our tour guide says bears do wander through sometimes.) Walking toward Mendenhall Glacier. LIONS AND TIGERS AND BEARS OH MY!! (Okay, there are no lions or tigers. But our tour guide says bears do wander through sometimes.) slides/P5203677.JPG slides/P5203680.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Mendenhall Glacier. Looks like frosting flowing down between the mountains. Mendenhall Glacier. Looks like frosting flowing down between the mountains. slides/P5203680.JPG slides/P5203686.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. slides/P5203686.JPG slides/P5203687.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Dan waves at me from afar! The rock formations below him are gorgeous! (Mendenhall Glacier is to my left.) Dan waves at me from afar! The rock formations below him are gorgeous! (Mendenhall Glacier is to my left.) slides/P5203687.JPG slides/P5203690.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Warning sign re: nesting birds at Mendenhall Glacier. Warning sign re: nesting birds at Mendenhall Glacier. slides/P5203690.JPG slides/P5203699.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Dan and Oscar pose at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. Dan and Oscar pose at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. slides/P5203699.JPG slides/P5203703.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Esther poses at Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. Esther poses at Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. slides/P5203703.JPG slides/P5203704.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Whale sighting on our whale-watching excursion near Juneau. Whale sighting on our whale-watching excursion near Juneau. slides/P5203704.JPG slides/P5203706.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 On a whale-watching excursion near Juneau. The mountains in the background almost look like a painted backdrop! On a whale-watching excursion near Juneau. The mountains in the background almost look like a painted backdrop! slides/P5203706.JPG slides/P5203710.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 We saw so many humpback whales on this 3 hour catamaran trip! We saw so many humpback whales on this 3 hour catamaran trip! slides/P5203710.JPG slides/P5203723.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 This guy put on quite a show for us! This guy put on quite a show for us! slides/P5203723.JPG slides/P5203731.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A buoy being used by sea lions as a place to relax. A buoy being used by sea lions as a place to relax. slides/P5203731.JPG slides/P5213736.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The charming town of Ketchikan. It rained for a short time when we first arrived but it didn't last long. Note the clouds covering the tops of the mountains in the upper right. The charming town of Ketchikan. It rained for a short time when we first arrived but it didn't last long. Note the clouds covering the tops of the mountains in the upper right. slides/P5213736.JPG slides/P5213738.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Another view of downtown Ketchikan (before the sky cleared). Another view of downtown Ketchikan (before the sky cleared). slides/P5213738.JPG slides/P5213739.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Downtown Ketchikan. Our ship is a short walk from here. Downtown Ketchikan. Our ship is a short walk from here. slides/P5213739.JPG slides/P5213741.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Harbor in Ketchikan. Harbor in Ketchikan. slides/P5213741.JPG slides/P5213752.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The folks in Ketchikan like to keep track of how much rain they get (which is plenty!) The folks in Ketchikan like to keep track of how much rain they get (which is plenty!) slides/P5213752.JPG slides/P5213755.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Late morning in Ketchikan and the sky is clearing up. Late morning in Ketchikan and the sky is clearing up. slides/P5213755.JPG slides/P5213760.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The interior of the seaplane we are going up in. We are taking a 2-hour air tour over the Misty Fjords with Michelle of Island Wings. The interior of the seaplane we are going up in. We are taking a 2-hour air tour over the Misty Fjords with Michelle of Island Wings. slides/P5213760.JPG slides/P5213762.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The plane is equipped with voice-activated headsets through which we could converse with Michelle throughout the trip. The plane is equipped with voice-activated headsets through which we could converse with Michelle throughout the trip. slides/P5213762.JPG slides/P5213764.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 For the first hour of the trip, all we could say was, "WOW!" You just cannot see this type of scenery from the cruise ship. For the first hour of the trip, all we could say was, "WOW!" You just cannot see this type of scenery from the cruise ship. slides/P5213764.JPG slides/P5213766.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Amazing, isn't it. Amazing, isn't it. slides/P5213766.JPG slides/P5213767.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Another scene from the window of the seaplane. Another scene from the window of the seaplane. slides/P5213767.JPG slides/P5213771.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Another scene from the window of the seaplane. (A couple of our tour guides have explained why lakes and glaciers look blue in places, but I still don't understand it. Sorry, I'm just not a science person!) Another scene from the window of the seaplane. (A couple of our tour guides have explained why lakes and glaciers look blue in places, but I still don't understand it. Sorry, I'm just not a science person!) slides/P5213771.JPG slides/P5213772.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 We were so close to the mountains, it felt like we could reach out and touch them. We were so close to the mountains, it felt like we could reach out and touch them. slides/P5213772.JPG slides/P5213777.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Another scene from the window of the seaplane. Another scene from the window of the seaplane. slides/P5213777.JPG slides/P5213782.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Another scene from the window of the seaplane. Another scene from the window of the seaplane. slides/P5213782.JPG slides/P5213783.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Another scene from the window of the seaplane. Another scene from the window of the seaplane. slides/P5213783.JPG slides/P5213785.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 We were so close to these mountains! We were so close to these mountains! slides/P5213785.JPG slides/P5213786.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Another scene from the window of the seaplane. Another scene from the window of the seaplane. slides/P5213786.JPG slides/P5213787.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Looking for a place to land on the water. Looking for a place to land on the water. slides/P5213787.JPG slides/P5213788.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Looking for a place to land on the water. Looking for a place to land on the water. slides/P5213788.JPG slides/P5213790.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Michelle's seaplane. I felt like Penny in Sky King!! Michelle's seaplane. I felt like Penny in Sky King!! slides/P5213790.JPG slides/P5213791.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 We spent some time wandering around in the marshy woods before heading back to Ketchikan. We spent some time wandering around in the marshy woods before heading back to Ketchikan. slides/P5213791.JPG slides/P5213792.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 We spent some time wandering around in the marshy woods before heading back to Ketchikan. We spent some time wandering around in the marshy woods before heading back to Ketchikan. slides/P5213792.JPG slides/P5213797.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Michelle and her boyfriend explore the area. Michelle and her boyfriend explore the area. slides/P5213797.JPG slides/P5213798.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 We spent some time wandering around in the marshy woods before heading back to Ketchikan. We spent some time wandering around in the marshy woods before heading back to Ketchikan. slides/P5213798.JPG slides/P5213802.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 We spent some time wandering around in the marshy woods before heading back to Ketchikan. We spent some time wandering around in the marshy woods before heading back to Ketchikan. slides/P5213802.JPG slides/P5213806.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 I had to have a picture of us with the plane or nobody would believe I really did it! I had to have a picture of us with the plane or nobody would believe I really did it! slides/P5213806.JPG slides/P5213810.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The weather was so beautiful that we were comfortable to a-bit-warm in our layers of clothes. The weather was so beautiful that we were comfortable to a-bit-warm in our layers of clothes. slides/P5213810.JPG slides/P5213812.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Dan is ready to take off again. On the first leg, we shared the middle bench seat. This time, he chose the co-pilot seat next to Michelle and I sat in a solo seat in the back, ready to shoot out of both windows. Dan is ready to take off again. On the first leg, we shared the middle bench seat. This time, he chose the co-pilot seat next to Michelle and I sat in a solo seat in the back, ready to shoot out of both windows. slides/P5213812.JPG slides/P5213816.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 It is so quiet in the mountains and woods. The only sound you can hear is water cascading down the mountains. It is so quiet in the mountains and woods. The only sound you can hear is water cascading down the mountains. slides/P5213816.JPG slides/P5213818.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 More amazing scenery as we fly back to Ketchikan. More amazing scenery as we fly back to Ketchikan. slides/P5213818.JPG slides/P5213846.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Approaching Ketchikan. (Sorry about the reflection on the windows.) Approaching Ketchikan. (Sorry about the reflection on the windows.) slides/P5213846.JPG slides/P5223855.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Back on the ship, looking out at the scenery between Ketchikan and Vancouver. Back on the ship, looking out at the scenery between Ketchikan and Vancouver. slides/P5223855.JPG slides/P5223862.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 People enjoying the sunshine on the top deck of the ship. People enjoying the sunshine on the top deck of the ship. slides/P5223862.JPG slides/P5233878.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 On the Big Red Bus (narrated hop on hop off tour bus) in Vancouver. On the Big Red Bus (narrated hop on hop off tour bus) in Vancouver. slides/P5233878.JPG slides/P5233882.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Vancouver, shot from the tour bus. Vancouver, shot from the tour bus. slides/P5233882.JPG slides/P5233885.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Lots of high rises in Vancouver. Lots of high rises in Vancouver. slides/P5233885.JPG slides/P5233887.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Our tour guide says the downtown is 70% residential -- very unusual for a big city -- and VERY expensive. Average home = 1 mil. Our tour guide says the downtown is 70% residential -- very unusual for a big city -- and VERY expensive. Average home = 1 mil. slides/P5233887.JPG slides/P5233892.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 English Bay (First Beach) on the edge of Stanley Park. Filled with joggers, bikers, and bladers. English Bay (First Beach) on the edge of Stanley Park. Filled with joggers, bikers, and bladers. slides/P5233892.JPG slides/P5233896.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 English Bay (First Beach) on the edge of Stanley Park. Filled with joggers, bikers, and bladers. English Bay (First Beach) on the edge of Stanley Park. Filled with joggers, bikers, and bladers. slides/P5233896.JPG slides/P5233898.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 English Bay (First Beach) on the edge of Stanley Park. The statue, called "the Inukshuk", was commissioned for Expo 86. The plaque at its foot explains, "Ancient symbols of Inuit culture traditionally used as landmarks and navigation aids, this grey granite statue representing a human form with outstretched arms is a well-known symbol in Canada of northern hospitality and friendship." English Bay (First Beach) on the edge of Stanley Park. The statue, called "the Inukshuk", was commissioned for Expo 86. The plaque at its foot explains, "Ancient symbols of Inuit culture traditionally used as landmarks and navigation aids, this grey granite statue representing a human form with outstretched arms is a well-known symbol in Canada of northern hospitality and friendship." slides/P5233898.JPG slides/P5233899.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Bladers enjoy the lovely afternoon at English Bay. Bladers enjoy the lovely afternoon at English Bay. slides/P5233899.JPG slides/P5233900.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Park between English Bay and commercial establishments nearby. Park between English Bay and commercial establishments nearby. slides/P5233900.JPG slides/P5233902.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Outdoor sculpture at English Bay. Outdoor sculpture at English Bay. slides/P5233902.JPG slides/P5233905.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Back on the Big Red Bus, wondering what it feels like to sit out on a 20th floor balcony. Back on the Big Red Bus, wondering what it feels like to sit out on a 20th floor balcony. slides/P5233905.JPG slides/P5233908.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 I miss rollerblading. It has been way too long! I miss rollerblading. It has been way too long! slides/P5233908.JPG slides/P5233909.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 I have no idea what kind of car this is. I have no idea what kind of car this is. slides/P5233909.JPG slides/P5233910.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The most unusual-looking Safeway (grocery store) that I have ever seen. The most unusual-looking Safeway (grocery store) that I have ever seen. slides/P5233910.JPG slides/P5233916.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Looks like the Coliseum, doesn't it? Looks like the Coliseum, doesn't it? slides/P5233916.JPG slides/P5233918.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 I just like the look of this building. I just like the look of this building. slides/P5233918.JPG slides/P5233924.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Graffiti. I'm sure some people think of it as art. At least it doesn't appear to be gang-related. Graffiti. I'm sure some people think of it as art. At least it doesn't appear to be gang-related. slides/P5233924.JPG slides/P5233925.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The two women in the center of the picture waved at our bus as we drove by. The two women in the center of the picture waved at our bus as we drove by. slides/P5233925.JPG slides/P5233926.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Vancouver has some steep streets. Not as steep as Seattle or SF, though. Vancouver has some steep streets. Not as steep as Seattle or SF, though. slides/P5233926.JPG slides/P5233927.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Vancouver's Chinatown. Vancouver's Chinatown. slides/P5233927.JPG slides/P5233929.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 People shop in a lovely section of Vancouver filled with art galleries. People shop in a lovely section of Vancouver filled with art galleries. slides/P5233929.JPG slides/P5233930.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 People shop in a lovely section of Vancouver filled with art galleries. People shop in a lovely section of Vancouver filled with art galleries. slides/P5233930.JPG slides/P5233931.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 People shop in a lovely section of Vancouver filled with art galleries. People shop in a lovely section of Vancouver filled with art galleries. slides/P5233931.JPG slides/P5233932.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 People shop in a lovely section of Vancouver filled with art galleries. People shop in a lovely section of Vancouver filled with art galleries. slides/P5233932.JPG slides/P5233933.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 People shop in a lovely section of Vancouver filled with art galleries. People shop in a lovely section of Vancouver filled with art galleries. slides/P5233933.JPG slides/P5233940.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Our room at the Marriott Pinnacle hotel in downtown Vancouver. Our room at the Marriott Pinnacle hotel in downtown Vancouver. slides/P5233940.JPG slides/P5233942.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The view from our room on the 27th floor. The view from our room on the 27th floor. slides/P5233942.JPG slides/P5233943.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The view from our room on the 27th floor. The view from our room on the 27th floor. slides/P5233943.JPG slides/P5233944.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The view from our room on the 27th floor. The view from our room on the 27th floor. slides/P5233944.JPG slides/P5233945.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The view from our room on the 27th floor. The view from our room on the 27th floor. slides/P5233945.JPG slides/P5233956.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Walking several blocks to our hotel from the point where the Big Red Bus dropped us off. Apparently, either ambulance drivers or EMTs were on strike when we visited. Walking several blocks to our hotel from the point where the Big Red Bus dropped us off. Apparently, either ambulance drivers or EMTs were on strike when we visited. slides/P5233956.JPG slides/P5233957.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Walking several blocks to our hotel from the point where the Big Red Bus dropped us off. We were reminded of our friend Michael Bolton, who worked for YukYuk's in Toronto at one time. Walking several blocks to our hotel from the point where the Big Red Bus dropped us off. We were reminded of our friend Michael Bolton, who worked for YukYuk's in Toronto at one time. slides/P5233957.JPG slides/P5233959.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Another trip on the Big Red Bus and we disembark at English Bay (First Beach), which is very crowded on this windy but otherwise lovely afternoon. Another trip on the Big Red Bus and we disembark at English Bay (First Beach), which is very crowded on this windy but otherwise lovely afternoon. slides/P5233959.JPG slides/P5233962.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The commercial district near English Bay. The commercial district near English Bay. slides/P5233962.JPG slides/P5233965.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Looking out over English Bay, we ate dinner at a burger joint with a view of the beach. Looking out over English Bay, we ate dinner at a burger joint with a view of the beach. slides/P5233965.JPG slides/P5233966.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Can you guess what BUSKING is?? (Answer: street performing!) Can you guess what BUSKING is?? (Answer: street performing!) slides/P5233966.JPG slides/P5233967.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 YUM! After dinner we stopped for yummy cupcakes ... at Cupcakes! YUM! After dinner we stopped for yummy cupcakes ... at Cupcakes! slides/P5233967.JPG slides/P5233973.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Again, walking a few blocks to our hotel after being dropped off by the Big Red Bus. Vancouver is such a lovely, clean city! Again, walking a few blocks to our hotel after being dropped off by the Big Red Bus. Vancouver is such a lovely, clean city! slides/P5233973.JPG slides/P5233975.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Note the art deco details on the building. Note the art deco details on the building. slides/P5233975.JPG slides/P5233978.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 I love the little "WALK" guy on the street lights. Cuter than ours, don't you think? (The building just ahead of us is our hotel.) I love the little "WALK" guy on the street lights. Cuter than ours, don't you think? (The building just ahead of us is our hotel.) slides/P5233978.JPG slides/P5233987.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Watching our cruise ship, the Diamond Princess, sail out of the harbor and back toward Alaska. Watching our cruise ship, the Diamond Princess, sail out of the harbor and back toward Alaska. slides/P5233987.JPG slides/P5243989.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Our last day, visiting Victoria on Vancouver Island. Note the street sign reading Fan Tan Alley. It leads to ... [next picture] Our last day, visiting Victoria on Vancouver Island. Note the street sign reading Fan Tan Alley. It leads to ... [next picture] slides/P5243989.JPG slides/P5243990.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 People head down the very skinny Fan Tan Alley in search of goodies to buy! People head down the very skinny Fan Tan Alley in search of goodies to buy! slides/P5243990.JPG slides/P5243992.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Fan Tan Alley shopping area near Chinatown. Fan Tan Alley shopping area near Chinatown. slides/P5243992.JPG slides/P5243993.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Dan drools over the offerings at the Fan Tan Cafe. (He eventually gave in and had Chinese food for lunch.) Dan drools over the offerings at the Fan Tan Cafe. (He eventually gave in and had Chinese food for lunch.) slides/P5243993.JPG slides/P5243994.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The "gateway" to Chinatown. The "gateway" to Chinatown. slides/P5243994.JPG slides/P5243995.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Up in B.C. they are major eco-heads (and, therefore, big fans of the Smart "TwoFor" car). Up in B.C. they are major eco-heads (and, therefore, big fans of the Smart "TwoFor" car). slides/P5243995.JPG slides/P5244002.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 This is the weirdest thing I have seen in a long time: a huge tote bag covered with various images of Jesus. This is the weirdest thing I have seen in a long time: a huge tote bag covered with various images of Jesus. slides/P5244002.JPG slides/P5244003.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 No plain utility boxes in Victoria! No plain utility boxes in Victoria! slides/P5244003.JPG slides/P5244005.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A book store in a very cool, art deco-ish buildng. I love the detail in the ceilings and the stained glass windows. A book store in a very cool, art deco-ish buildng. I love the detail in the ceilings and the stained glass windows. slides/P5244005.JPG slides/P5244006.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A close-up of the stained glass windows in the bookstore. A close-up of the stained glass windows in the bookstore. slides/P5244006.JPG slides/P5244009.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Cool store in Victoria: Out of Ireland. Cool store in Victoria: Out of Ireland. slides/P5244009.JPG slides/P5244012.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 More cool architecture in Victoria. More cool architecture in Victoria. slides/P5244012.JPG slides/P5244013.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 View of the harbor in Victoria. View of the harbor in Victoria. slides/P5244013.JPG slides/P5244014.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Our tour guide says if we take the time to eat in Victoria, Sam's Deli is a good place to stop. Our tour guide says if we take the time to eat in Victoria, Sam's Deli is a good place to stop. slides/P5244014.JPG slides/P5244026.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Dan and Oscar enjoy one of the painted eagles that are all over the city. At some point, they will be auctioned off for charity. Dan and Oscar enjoy one of the painted eagles that are all over the city. At some point, they will be auctioned off for charity. slides/P5244026.JPG slides/P5244031.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Harbor view in Victoria. Harbor view in Victoria. slides/P5244031.JPG slides/P5244033.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Another soon-to-be-auctioned painted eagle. Another soon-to-be-auctioned painted eagle. slides/P5244033.JPG slides/P5244035.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A government builing in Victoria. I forget the name. Sorry! A government builing in Victoria. I forget the name. Sorry! slides/P5244035.JPG slides/P5244038.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 The Royal B.C. Museum in Victoria. The Royal B.C. Museum in Victoria. slides/P5244038.JPG slides/P5244039.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Seen from the Royal B.C. Museum. (I woldn't want to walk all those stairs.) Seen from the Royal B.C. Museum. (I woldn't want to walk all those stairs.) slides/P5244039.JPG slides/P5244042.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Inside the Royal B.C. Museum. Inside the Royal B.C. Museum. slides/P5244042.JPG slides/P5244045.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Queen Victoria Hotel, where we met up with our tour guide for the return trip to Vancouver. Queen Victoria Hotel, where we met up with our tour guide for the return trip to Vancouver. slides/P5244045.JPG slides/P5244049.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Proof that Dan and Oscar were really in British Columbia. Proof that Dan and Oscar were really in British Columbia. slides/P5244049.JPG slides/P5244050.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Proof that Dan and his mom, Esther, were in British Columbia. Proof that Dan and his mom, Esther, were in British Columbia. slides/P5244050.JPG slides/P5244053.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244053.JPG slides/P5244056.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244056.JPG slides/P5244058.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244058.JPG slides/P5244065.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244065.JPG slides/P5244066.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244066.JPG slides/P5244072.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244072.JPG slides/P5244077.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244077.JPG slides/P5244082.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244082.JPG slides/P5244084.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244084.JPG slides/P5244085.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244085.JPG slides/P5244088.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244088.JPG slides/P5244091.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244091.JPG slides/P5244093.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244093.JPG slides/P5244096.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244096.JPG slides/P5244097.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244097.JPG slides/P5244101.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244101.JPG slides/P5244102.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244102.JPG slides/P5244103.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244103.JPG slides/P5244106.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244106.JPG slides/P5244107.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. (Entry to the Japanese Gardens.) A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. (Entry to the Japanese Gardens.) slides/P5244107.JPG slides/P5244111.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244111.JPG slides/P5244112.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244112.JPG slides/P5244113.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244113.JPG slides/P5244114.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244114.JPG slides/P5244115.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244115.JPG slides/P5244116.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244116.JPG slides/P5244117.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. A view of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244117.JPG slides/P5244119.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Leaving the Butchart Gardens. Leaving the Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244119.JPG slides/P5244122.html# Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:48:35 -0400 Leaving the Butchart Gardens. Leaving the Butchart Gardens. slides/P5244122.JPG