Yesterday was one of those simple, good-for-the-soul days. Cec and I headed over to Victoria with my friend Donna for a long‑overdue visit with Janice and Jim. The four of us—Donna, Janice, Jim, and I—went to school together many years ago, and no matter how much time passes, there’s something comforting about slipping back into those old friendships. Seeing them again felt like opening a window to a familiar breeze.
Our day started at Tsawwassen, boarding the ferry for the beautiful crossing to Swartz Bay. No matter how many times I take that route, the scenery never gets old—the islands, the light on the water, the quiet hum of the ship. From Swartz Bay, we hopped onto the 72 Double Decker bus, riding like tourists and enjoying the view all the way into Sidney.
It was just a day trip, but it carried that lovely feeling of reconnecting—with friends, with memories, and with the easy rhythm of Vancouver Island life. Sometimes the best days are the ones that unfold simply: a ferry ride, a bus ride, and a table shared with people who knew you when you were young.
Lunch with old friends always feels like slipping into a favourite sweater—comfortable, familiar, and full of good memories. The five of us settled in and ordered a mix of dishes that turned out to be as delightful as the company. Janice, Jim, and Cec all chose the halibut fish and chips, perfectly golden and crisp. Donna went for the fish tacos, and I had the salmon, which was cooked beautifully. Every entrée was excellent, and the service matched it—friendly, attentive, and relaxed, just the way a long lunch with friends should be.
After we finished catching up over our plates, Jim kindly drove us back to the ferry terminal. The sailing home was wonderfully calm, the kind of smooth crossing that lets you just sit back and enjoy the view. We didn’t spot any whales this time, but I did see a fish leap out of the water—a tiny moment, but it made me smile. Two elegant sailboats glided past as well, their white sails bright against the blue. It was the perfect quiet ending to a day filled with connection and nostalgia.
Some days don’t need anything extraordinary to make them special. Good friends, good food, and a peaceful trip home can be more than enough.
