A Very Lovely Weekend in Vancouver

Sorry I've been away for a couple days - if it makes you feel any better I was having a splendid time in Vancouver with my friend Kelsey (she blogs over at The Uncreative Girl - go check her it out!)

The drive down Saturday morning wasn't very sunny but it didn't rain which was wonderfully unusual. I am always awestruck by just how beautiful the drive from the Interior to Vancouver is - even though I've done it at least 1,942 times. I think my favorite part has to be the Coquihalla Summit to Hope - the snow capped mountain peaks are so lovely it's sometimes hard to focus on the road.

My first stop is always at IKEA - right after the Port Mann Bridge. Although I could literally spend an entire day wandering the displays I cut my visit short because I had to get to the PNE grounds to pick up our soccer tickets for Monday. One thing I did see that blew my mind was this light fixture suspended to act as a side lamp. I've seen this once before with a disco ball and fell completely in LOVE!

I picked up a couple necessities (a cutting board, scissors, and veggie peeler) and a couple cacti for my boyfriend. Nothing too exciting, except a little piece of art to bring home as well!

I love how cacti and succulents seem to have a personality!

Now I just need to decide if I want the art it in my dining room or master bathroom...

After IKEA I made a quick stop at Winners/HomeSense - even though we have on at home. I didn't get anything but I had a really, really, hard time walking away from this little white owl!

Kelsey was gracious enough to let me stay with her for the couple nights - she lives in a really nice area (and within walking distance of Starbucks!)

On Sunday we went down to the Athlete's Village, created for the 2010 Winter Olympics, for a walk and lunch. It is actually a nice little area, and quite quiet...

Vancouver and my hair and NOT friends!

We also snuck in a little window shopping - mostly vintage and antique furniture stores. My favorite was full of Scandinavian designs - wood dining sets, recliners, mirrors - it's my first stop when I win the lottery!

On my last day in Vancouver, after a lovely brunch with two amazing friends, I went over the the PNE grounds and Empire Stadium for the Vancouver Whitecaps - Manchester City soccer game. It was beautiful outside, the stadium is in a really pretty location, and I wasn't cheering for either side - a win-win all around!

It was a late drive home Monday night, we didn't get home until the wee hours on Tuesday morning. Luckily I had planned ahead and took Tuesday off as well. But all good things must come to an end and it's back to work - at least the week is short!

Enjoy!

Calli