My husband and I moved to Vancouver having only visited once — for a job interview. It was a leap –– made quickly, with little hesitation, and somehow exactly right. Of course, I can also agonize for 45 minutes over what to order on DoorDash. Life’s funny that way.
That first time we did visit Vancouver, while we were still sussing things out, it was one of those glorious first spring-like days of the year. As we ate a meal on English Bay and then walked across the Burrard Bridge, we couldn’t believe the vibrancy –– so many people out and active; like the entire city was happy all at once. It didn’t hurt that Vancouver seems to be the beauty queen of Canada, flag waving in vibrant contrast to the water, trees and mountain background.
What we didn’t know at the time was the vibrancy, the bustle of people, the Barbie movie level of unhinged plastic smiling joy –– I’m afraid that it was all a bit chemically induced. Sunshine in B.C. — after what feels like 35 months of rain and grey — is basically a drug.
This last Saturday, we were graced with one of those first tastes of spring here in Roberts Creek. Cars lined Roberts Creek Road as eager gardeners exchanged seeds and conversation at Roberts Creek Hall for Seedy Saturday, visiting with friends perhaps not seen since before winter, arms filled with provisions to dig into dormant beds just beginning to stir. Driving down Roberts Creek Road, I caught a glorious glimpse of Beth Hawthorn placing her “open house” sign out, enough to make me pull over immediately and be the lucky first in line to view her recent creations. One vase was so stunning, so beautiful, I felt almost inappropriate –– my eyes kept drifting back to the gleaming white vessel as we talked. It came home with me — a daily reminder to feel beauty deeply, exactly when I need it.
The rain returned, as it always does. But that hit of springlike weather was a life-giving glimpse of what’s ahead. The longer, lighter, and brighter days alone would be enough, but with this changing of the season the community begins to open more too.
The Earth Day celebration is one of my favorite Roberts Creek events –– it feels like the official opening of the spring season. This year’s celebration takes place on April 27, with vendors, exhibitors, delicious food, music, the library book sale, and more. The clothing swap, hosted by Wolfpup Studio, is back again, and is getting a fun new addition. Sarita is bringing a sewing machine for simple mending and alterations on the spot. Stop by to sew a patch, hem a sleeve, or make that new-to-you treasure fit just right. We all have the many volunteers to thank for this event. If you’re interested in volunteering to bring the event to life, visit the Earth Day 2025 at the RC Pier Facebook page.
What’s your favorite event of the spring? Send me a DM or shoot me an email at [email protected]— I’d love to hear what you’re looking forward to. See you in the Creek.
