Some may call it Global warming because Vancouver had the warmest February on record during the 2010 Olympic Games. I call it Olympic Gold Fever! It seemed as soon as we won our First Gold medal the pink plumb trees opened their flower buds from joy, because the whole region was cheering so loudly. With each gold medal that was won more tree buds opened up, first, the white plumb trees, than the magnolias and now we have the pink cherry trees in bloom thought our area.

This is an exciting time to be taking a holiday in Vancouver. Like the trees the spring flowers are fully out and the lime green of the wiping willows is doted everywhere.

There are many beautiful parks to visit throughout the year but especially in the spring.
Stanley Park is not only the jewel of the City of Vancouver but also of the Lower Mainland There are many spring flowering trees such as magnolias, rhododendrons, and Japanese cherry trees. As well there is a rainbow of tulip colors carpeting the flower beds. Stanley part is 45 minutes drive from Dancing Firs B&B and 10 minutes from Robson Street Shopping area.

UBC Botanical Gardens and Centre for Plant Research has the most impressive floral display, (most Aprils and Mays), featuring magnolias, rhododendrons and spring ephemerals. This garden is about 30 minutes from Dancing Firs B&B and 5 minutes from the Museum of Anthropology, which has a large display of First Nations artefacts.

Dr. Sun Yat-sen Classical Chinese Garden in the heart of Vancouver China Town, is a must see for all and it is 45 minutes from Dancing Firs B&B.

Darts Hill Gardens in Surrey has the most diverse collection of trees in the Pacific Northwest. The collection, loving planted by Francisca Darts with the help of her husband Edwin, some over 60 years ago. Darts Hill Garden is approximately 10 minutes from Dancing Firs, Retreat, Executive Suites and B&B.

Central Park in Burnaby was established in 1891 and officially opened by Prince Charles and Princess Diana in 1986 on their visit to Burnaby, has trees galore.
Central Park is about 30 minutes away for Dancing Firs B&B, and about 5 minutes from Metro Town Shopping area.

At Dancing Firs, www.dancingfirs.com, the formal gardens feature spring flowering bushes, variety of narcissus, tulips and the forest has magnolias and rhododendrons and bluebells carpeting the forest floor.

Spring time is my favourite time of the year because the garden is waking up and there is a fresh start and new hope for a beautiful year all around. This spring there is also 14 Gold Medals, to celebrate, that the Canadian Athletes won in the 2010 Olympic Games.

We extend our love and gratitude to all the athletes around the world who participated in these games.
We are looking forwad to sharing our beautiful spring gardens with our vistors!

Mary Mira Robson

Getting to Downtown Vancouver from one of the Best Places in the Pacific Northwest, Dancing Firs – Retreat, Executive Suites and B&B, in White Rock, BC was very easy. We walked about 4 short blocks to the 351 Bus, which took us to the Canada Line Sky Train, Bridgeport Station (35 min). At the Canada Line Station we squeezed in with hundreds of others to go to the Waterfront terminus (22 min). The Sky Train station brought us to Coal Harbour, Historic Gas Town, Canada Place and the New Convention Centre.

From the Station it was a 5 minute walk to the Olympic Caldron.

The Convention Centre design with its tilted-out glass looms over the seawall resembling the hull of a Sailing Ship. For the 2010 Olympics the Convention Centre is surrounded by a huge Tent City where over 9,000 accredited journalists from around the World are calling home.

The Olympic Flame was surrounded by thousands of visitors eagerly getting as close as possible to have their pictures taken in front of the Olympic Flame to record this bit of history.

The whole of downtown Vancouver is dotted with art and sculpture pieces from BC Artists. The Spirit Eagles are on every corner and the favourite Spirit Eagle for picture taking was the Red Leaf wings on Burrard Street. Thousands of people moved freely from the Olympic Flame to Robson Street to Yaletown because many streets were blocked off from automobile traffic. That was such a pleasant walk and it seemed as if every 100 steps there was something new to see. Live entertainment on just about every corner, we heard Bag Pipes, Pan Flutes, Caribbean Music, Christian Music, Reggae, Comedy and even an Australian Kangaroo talking to the little kiddies.

At Robson Square, which is Arthur Erickson’s masterpiece, and is slowly being recognized as the Western equivalent of Rockefeller Plaza, there were people skating on the newly refurbished skating rink. The local Art Gallery is home to the BC/Canada Pavilion, showcasing the very best of British Columbia. Outside were huge floral mortifies from a Chinese Artist. The square was filled with colourful outfits of young and old. We saw so many different Families, Ethnic Groups, First Nations, Kids Faces painted with red maple leafs and Teenagers with the Canadian Flags draped over their shoulders. Everyone was in the Olympic Spirit supporting our Athletes unconditionally. On Robson Street, during the Gold Medal Ceremonies for Men’s Curling, the whole crowd burst into our favourite song for this Olympic Games, “Oh Canada.” It was really emotional! Even our USA Visitor were surprised at the spontaneity.

Each evening Robson Square came even more alive with a Laser and Flame Show and snow boarding and skiing athletes riding the zipp line high above the crowd.

The only sad note for us was the Olympic Clock which was counting down the time remaining for the Olympic Games. We heard comments like “look, oh no, there is only 25 hrs left before the games close, I don’t want this to end” And yes, that was how a lots of us felt when we looked at the countdown clock – we do not want this joy to end.

In the 3 block radius of Robson Square and the Famous Robson Street Shopping area there are dozens if restaurants featuring every type of Cuisine. We chose the Kobe Steak House for our dinner. We met a lot of people around our table and a lovely couple from Ottawa who came to the Olympic Games for their honeymoon. The sake was warm, the food was delicious and the company was lively.

After dinner we ventured to Yaletown to hear more live entertainment and catch the nightly fireworks show. As it came apparent that we would be overcrowded around the Roundhouse Community Centre, we took a short walk, to view the Show from the Cambie Street Bridge, very near the Athlete’s Village. The Fire Works were spectacular with one return performance after another.

Shortly after 11:00pm, our Olympic day trip ended with a short walk to the Canada Line and the Bus back to White Rock and Dancing Firs Bed and Breakfast. We agreed, that it was an experience of a life time. And that Vanoc, the City of Vancouver really know how to throw a Party.

Thank You, British Columbia, Vancouver, all the Athletes, the Volunteers, and employees of Vanoc.

Mary and Pamela

It seemed like the whole town was out to cheer for the Olympic Flame and our Canadian athletes. The crowds lined the streets and the young and old all cheering enthusiastically.

Our Canadian Flags lined the whole route and we also spotted USA, French, Italian and Swiss flags.

I got my little Nephews and their Big Brother and Sister up at 6:00am and even thought they were half asleep I could see the excitement and wonder in their faces. First we went to the starting line then drove down to the finishing line so we got to see several different runners.

This is definitely the place to be during the Olympics. You can enjoy the peace and quite of the Small Town atmosphere and we are only 30 minutes from the Olympic Skating Oval in Richmond and about an hour away from downtown Vancouver.

For more information and availability please check our website www.dancingfirs.com

A Nikken wellness home addresses issues that can greatly improve your quality of life and the safety of your home. The emphasis is on prevention and keeping lives in balance. Nikken offers wellness technology products designed to address specific problems and create harmony in the following areas.

1. Rest and Relaxation – The foundation to a quality sleep with a patented Kenko dream sleep system which includes the dream deluxe mattress, pillow and comforter. Get a deep relaxing sleep, and awaken refreshed – you can do it in your sleep!
2. Water quality – PiMag water filtration for delicious drinking water and rejuvenating shower. Sometimes referred to as “the water of life”, special pi ceramics from deep-sea coral reflect far-infrared energy and remove contaminants.
3. Air quality – Breathe easier and enjoy a cleaner and more refreshing environment with patented air filtration. Indoor pollutants in carpeting, furniture, cleaning agents, dust etc, cause allergies. Nikken uses several technologies and a revolutionary advanced filtration process to break down contaminates and organisms without chemicals.

What does all this mean? It means you can de-stress in a clean and healthy environment, and allow your body to relax, sleep better, breathe better and feel better.

We had this luxury for two wonderful nights when we stayed at Dancing Firs retreat and B&B in White Rock BC Canada for our 25th wedding anniversary. It is difficult to describe the feeling of relaxation, improved energy other than to say it was unforgettable. The bed was heavenly and the sleep deep and restful. The comfort level was beyond what was expected.

The room was air filtered and just smelled very clean and refreshing. It added to the whole experience of pampering and attention to detail. The water was filtered and satisfying. Your body reacts so positively to these products and you just feel like you are a million miles from home and more relaxed.

Dancing Firs was more than just a place to stay and sleep. It was a place dedicated to providing guests with ultimate health and comfort and a feeling of well-being. It is truly a destination where people can come and achieve total wellness in beautiful surroundings that will leave a lasting impression.

Visitors are pleasantly surprised by the mild temperatures and often comment that they have many misconceptions about the weather. It is often thought that there is a lot of snow and very cold weather. It is simply not true! White Rock enjoys mild winters with temperatures ranging from 0 to 15 degrees Celsius (32 – 60 degrees F). We typically do not get snow, or if we do, it does not last long!

We do have snow up in the mountains surrounding Vancouver and much snow in the resort town of Whistler BC, which is about 2 hours from White Rock. There are some great ski hills a short one hour drive, but snow on the ground and a winter wonderland is not typical.

When visiting our beautiful seaside city, bring a warm sweater or light coat for the fall, and a winter jacket, mitts and hat for the winter months. There is much to do in the fall and winter months!

This winter is particularly special as Vancouver hosts the 2010 Winter Olympics featuring 15 exciting winter sports. The city is buzzing with activity as the countdown to the games continues! It is exciting to be hosting a world class event.

Enjoy and explore the new season:

• Walk on the pier
• Enjoy the winter farmers market
• Spend an evening at the White Rock Players’ Club for the production of Snow White
• Visit the White Rock Museum
• Semiahmoo Salmon Festival
• West Beach Pumpkin Festival
• White Rock Christmas Sail Past
• Horse and Carriage rides

There are many indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy. Breathe in the crisp ocean breezes then head back to a warm fireplace and snuggle up. Be sure to visit Mary Robson at Dancing Firs B&B in White Rock for a comfortable, welcome and inviting place to stay. Just a few minutes from the White Rock pier, quaint shops, restaurants and activities, Mary will be happy to give you recommendations to make your stay very memorable.

No wonder tourists have been flocking here for decades, with the abundance of Mother Nature and activities in the greater Vancouver vicinity.  White Rock offers activities that are invigorating and relaxing – as one would find in any tourist destination.  That said with no bias; springtime in Western Canada beholds a serenity that is unlike any other place.

Paired with the laid-back sophistication reminiscent of many New England States, along with a good dose of European flair; visitors can unwind along the sweeping, sandy beach, take in a swim and watch the trains go by. The community of White Rock is located less than two miles from the United States border crossings and just a short scenic drive to other attractions in the Greater Vancouver Area.

One of Canada’s most predominant places to take in the spectacular sunsets, visitors should not pass out on the celebrated summer farmer’s market in White Rock, featuring the local bounty of the fertile Fraser Valley.  Joggers and dog walkers can take a leisurely stroll along the walkway, (which happens to be wheelchair-accessible).  All while enjoying magnificent views of Semiahmoo Bay, as well as the snow-capped peak of Mount Baker rising to the southeast.  The sun favors the outskirts of White Rock by the Semiahmoo Peninsula; known for attracting the most sunshine throughout the year compared to many other coastal regions.  Not too hot – nor too cold – the menial temperate of White Rock varies from 23° C / 76° F during summer; to a frosty 6° C / 42° F in the winter.

The quaint Seaside City of White Rock BC is home to the highly acclaimed Dancing Firs Executive Suites; which has become one of Canada’s most sought-after destinations for romance or for basking in the blissfulness of solitude.  As an executive luxury bed and breakfast that concentrates on good health and wellness, Dancing Firs has a love and dedication to natural living.  Dancing Firs in White Rock has created a holistic, wellness-orientated environment, and is just minutes from the beach.

The property sits on a very high bluff overlooking the sea.  While not enough can be said about the absolutely stunning views – anyone fortunate enough to enjoy springtime retreat in White Rock will fondly remember their time at this charming Inn.

The White Rock pier stretches 1,559 feet into the ocean, which is a real draw for crab fisherman or lovers to meander down the wide wooden pier.  It’s no wonder why this place is a favorite of photographers for the picturesque beauty that White Rock has to offer.  And where did this town get its name, “White Rock”?  Legend has it that in order to prove his strength and power, the son of a famous Sea God threw a magical 500 ton rock across the oceans.  Here it sits, as a well known landmark of the locals who have used it both as a navigational and tourist attraction.

With several kilometers of even, paved walkway, every step of the Promenade along White Rock Beach offers a perfect view of the spectacular Ocean Vista.  On a clear day, you may even see as far as the Cascade Mountains down in nearby Washington State.   Stroll along Marine Drive, and you can browse the tourist shops or get a bite to eat at a local bistro.

For more to do and see in White Rock BC, check out the events calendar, click here!

Just a little South of Vancouver and only a few minutes north of the US/Canadian Border, the charming community of White Rock is distinguished for its adorable B&B’s, galleries, boutiques and trendy waterfront dining with spectacular sunsets.  Picture sitting along one of the quaint cafes; overlooking one of the Province’s scenic mountains with the crashing waves of the Pacific in its tranquil place. Go dancing at a fun nightclub or find a shopping excursion at one of many unique shops along the beach.

While walking along the promenade, you may even catch a tune by one of the local musicians who hope to wrestle you out of a few cents.  Go ahead – its well worth the charm of this artsy town in the eclectic atmosphere of Marine Drive.  Wander through the cute stores and enjoy the varied restaurants along the main strip of White Rock.

If you’re into the outdoors adventure, plan a day trip with the family to go whale watching, kayaking, swimming, or even white water rafting.  There are gold-rush historic sites for the history buffs; while the winter snow adventurists can find plenty of fluffy snow to ride down a mountain on a snowboard or a pair of skis. Wine Vineyards, Dude Ranches, Train Rides or Boat Trips along the Inside Passage are enough to entertain your mind, body and spirit for days – even weeks.  If that’s not enough to juice up your appetite for fun and leisure, take a stroll along the magnificent promenade where you can catch views of the expansive coastline.

History buffs will enjoy a gold-rush historic site or a visit to the White Rock Museum – celebrating its 50th year.  Preserving local history and culture is the main goal of this museum; which appropriately resides in the historic White Rock Train Station from 1912.  Nestled along the miles of Marine Drive, the White Rock Museum is a must-see for visitors who enjoy the changing exhibits and souvenirs in its gift shop.

If you are looking for bed and breakfast accommodations in greater Vancouver, the Dancing Firs is the place to go.  With concentration on holistic living and health awareness, the Dancing Firs Executive Suites offer top of the line accommodations, as well as imperial views of the sea.  For fun in the sun and all types of dining, head down to Marine Drive where you will find anything you are looking for to eat; from lobster and sea scallops to casual pub dining.

To find peace and quiet within this beachy tourist town, take a lovely walk down the pebbly pathways leading to Crescent Beach, about a 15 minute drive.  You can take a dip in the temperate waters of this protected swimming area; or play beach volleyball with the kids on a summer day.  This particular strip is the place to be!

Blackies Spit is one of the most known bird watching spots in Canada, with records of at least 200 different species of feathered friends.  Whether you’re looking to wine, dine, or just take in a bit of nature, White Rock is a premier destination spot for young and old alike.